The African Leadership Institute (AFLI) is inviting nominations for the 2027 Archbishop Tutu Fellowship Programme, a leadership development initiative designed to equip and connect some of Africa’s most promising young leaders. The programme seeks to build a network of high-potential Africans who are expected to progress into influential leadership positions within the next 5–10 years and contribute meaningfully to positive transformation across the continent.

Since 2006, the Archbishop Tutu Leadership Fellowship Programme has provided selected participants with leadership learning experiences designed to strengthen their insights, leadership capabilities, confidence and practical tools for creating change. Fellows also become part of a supportive network of emerging African leaders working across different sectors and areas of influence.

Approximately 25 participants will be selected for the 2027 cohort. Applicants must be African leaders between the ages of 30 and 39 who demonstrate strong leadership potential and a commitment to contributing to Africa’s development. The programme does not accept direct applications. Candidates must first be nominated by another person, and only one nomination is required to gain access to the official application process. There is no requirement to create an account or log in when submitting a nomination.

The nomination process involves a nominator submitting the candidate’s details to AFLI, after which the organisation reviews the nominations. Eligible nominated candidates are then invited to complete the full fellowship application. Applications are subsequently assessed through a competitive selection process, with successful candidates forming the Class of 2027.

Nominations opened on 26 August 2026 and will close on 20 September 2026 at midnight Johannesburg, South Africa time. Nominees are expected to be screened approximately one week to 10 days after nominations close, after which eligible candidates will receive access to the application process around 25 September 2026. The deadline for submitting the fellowship application and letters of recommendation is 25 October 2026 at midnight Johannesburg time. Selection will begin in early November, with shortlisted candidates expected to be informed around mid-December 2026. The Class of 2027 will be finalised in mid-January 2027 and officially announced before the first workshop in South Africa.

Emerging African leaders who meet the age requirement and believe they have the leadership potential to benefit from and contribute to the fellowship are encouraged to identify a suitable nominator and seek nomination before the deadline.

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached below to apply for this opportunity