The Mandela Washington Fellowship is set to bring around 700 young leaders to the United States during the summer of 2024 for an intensive executive-style program. This initiative aims to equip Fellows with skills and empowerment to take on leadership roles in their respective sectors and communities.

The Fellowship offers an unparalleled opportunity to:

- Engage in a six-week Leadership Institute at a U.S. college or university, fostering exchange of experiences with U.S. citizens and fellow participants.
- Expand expertise by exploring industries beyond daily work.
- Attend a Summit with fellow young African leaders.
- Interact with U.S. Government, civic, and business leaders.
- Strengthen professional endeavors through new connections, skills, and ideas.
- Become part of a continental and global Alumni Network, fostering collaborative solutions to common challenges.

Application and Selection Timeline:

- August 15, 2023: Application opens.
- September 12, 2023: Application deadline.
- November 2023 – January 2024: Semi-finalists interviewed by local U.S. embassies and consulates.
- March 2024: Applicants notified of their status.
- May 2024: Visa processing and Pre-Departure Orientations for Finalists.
- June 2024: Fellowship commences in the United States.

Eligibility Criteria:

The Mandela Washington Fellowship encourages applications from all backgrounds and identities. It's open to young African leaders who meet the following criteria:

- Age between 25 and 35 by the application deadline, with consideration for exceptional applicants aged 21-24.
- Not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
- Eligible for a United States J-1 visa.
- Not employed by, or immediate family member of, the U.S. Government.
- Proficient in English.
- Citizenship of one of the listed African countries.
- Residence in one of the above countries.
- Not an Alumni of the Mandela Washington Fellowship.

Scroll down and click on the official link below to apply now!