Applications are open for Cohort 5 of the Umholi we Africa (UwA) Fellowship, a fully funded 12-month leadership programme designed for exceptional young African professionals seeking to build careers in governance, public service and policy leadership.

The fellowship provides a direct pathway into high-impact public-sector and policy roles, placing selected fellows alongside ministers, members of parliament and senior public leaders in their home countries. Through this experience, fellows contribute to national development while gaining practical exposure to policymaking, public administration and institutional transformation.

About the Umholi we Africa Fellowship

The Umholi we Africa Fellowship is a leadership development initiative of AL for Governance and Africa Career Networks, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation.

The programme supports graduates of the African Leadership Academy (ALA) and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program who are interested in public service and want to develop the skills and experience required to become ethical, mission-driven African leaders.

During the fellowship, participants work in strategic roles supporting public leaders and institutions. Their responsibilities can include research, policy analysis, data collection, project management, communications and strategic planning.

The experience is designed to give young professionals a practical understanding of how government and policy institutions operate while allowing them to contribute to real development priorities in their respective countries.

What Fellows Do

Fellows may work alongside ministers, members of parliament and senior public-sector leaders on activities such as:

• Conducting research, data collection and policy analysis
• Supporting strategic advisory and decision-making processes
• Assisting with project planning, budgeting, monitoring and evaluation
• Preparing policy briefs, reports, speeches and communication materials
• Supporting stakeholder consultations and community engagement
• Contributing to public outreach and civic engagement activities
• Participating in leadership development, mentorship and coaching
• Supporting institutional transformation and national development initiatives

Throughout the programme, fellows are expected to demonstrate ethical leadership, accountability, professionalism and a commitment to public service.

Fellowship Experience

The 12-month fellowship combines practical public-sector experience with leadership development.

Selected fellows will have the opportunity to work directly with public leaders in their home countries while receiving training, mentorship and coaching through the AL for Governance network.

This combination allows participants to develop a deeper understanding of governance while building professional relationships and practical skills that can support longer-term careers in public service and policy leadership.

Important Dates

• Applications close: 31 October 2026
• Application evaluation: January–February 2027
• Pre-Fellowship Training: June 2027
• Fellowship duration: 12 months

Applicants should carefully review the eligibility requirements before applying and ensure that all information provided accurately reflects their academic and professional background.

About AL for Governance

AL for Governance works to create pathways for young Africans to enter and contribute to the governance sector. The network focuses on developing ethical public leaders, strengthening connections among young professionals and fostering intergenerational mentorship.

Through its programmes and networks, it seeks to increase the participation and influence of young Africans in public-sector and civil-society leadership while supporting professionals interested in governance and policy careers.

Don't miss out on the application deadline which is 31 October 2026.