FULLY FUNDED: Apply For The Griots Fellowship 2026 for African Storytellers, Journalists & Creatives

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FULLY FUNDED: Apply For The Griots Fellowship 2026 for African Storytellers, Journalists & Creatives

Applications are open for the Griots Fellowship 2026, a transformative leadership and storytelling programme offered by the LéO Africa Institute. This unique fellowship is designed to empower African storytellers, journalists, filmmakers, writers, and cultural practitioners who are shaping narratives about Africa and preserving its rich heritage.

Inspired by the traditional West African “griots” — custodians of history, culture, and oral storytelling — the programme equips fellows with modern skills, platforms, and networks to amplify authentic African voices on a global stage. Over the course of the fellowship, participants engage in intensive training, collaborative learning, and creative projects aimed at strengthening both their storytelling craft and leadership capacity.

The fellowship typically runs for about eight months and includes residencies, workshops, and independent projects focused on journalism, creative arts, and cultural heritage. Fellows are supported to develop impactful narratives that challenge stereotypes and showcase Africa’s present and future from an authentic perspective.

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link to apply

Host Institution

LéO Africa Institute

Program Type

Fully Funded

Program Benefits

The Griots Fellowship provides a highly immersive and enriching experience that goes beyond traditional training programmes. Fellows gain access to intensive workshops, mentorship, and collaborative learning spaces where they refine their storytelling skills and explore narrative strategies.

Participants also benefit from exposure to a network of influential African leaders, creatives, and professionals across various sectors, creating opportunities for collaboration and long-term impact. The programme supports fellows in developing and showcasing their creative projects, helping them build platforms that amplify their voices and extend their reach.

Additionally, fellows enhance their leadership capacity, learning how to use storytelling as a tool for social change, cultural preservation, and shaping public discourse across Africa and beyond.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must be African citizens or individuals of African descent who are deeply committed to storytelling and shaping narratives about the continent. The fellowship specifically targets individuals between the ages of 25 and 45 who already have at least three years of experience in fields such as journalism, filmmaking, writing, media, or cultural practice.

Candidates are expected to demonstrate a strong portfolio of previous work that reflects their storytelling abilities, whether through published articles, creative projects, films, or other media outputs. In addition, applicants must present a clear and compelling project proposal that outlines the story or narrative they intend to develop during the fellowship.

Beyond technical qualifications, the programme seeks individuals who are passionate about authentic African storytelling, committed to cultural preservation, and motivated to influence how Africa is represented globally.

Eligible Countries

The Griots Fellowship is open to applicants from all African countries. In addition to this, individuals from the African diaspora are also eligible to apply, provided they can demonstrate a strong connection to African storytelling and narratives.

Application Procedure

Click the official link below to apply for this opportunity

Official Link

https://leoafricainstitute.org/programs/griots-fellowship