FULLY FUNDED: Apply For The MASS African Design Centre Fellowship 2026 in Rwanda

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FULLY FUNDED: Apply For The MASS African Design Centre Fellowship 2026 in Rwanda

Applications are open for the 2026 African Design Centre (ADC) Fellowship organized by MASS Design Group. The fellowship is a prestigious twelve-month residency program based in Kigali, Rwanda, aimed at empowering emerging African architects and designers to lead transformative, community-centered development across the continent. Through mentorship, hands-on projects, and collaborative learning, fellows will gain practical experience in socially responsible and environmentally sustainable design while preserving and promoting Africa’s architectural heritage.

The African Design Centre focuses on research, catalyst projects, and systems change initiatives that address urgent African challenges such as healthcare infrastructure, climate resilience, education, and economic opportunity. Fellows will work closely with experts and communities on real projects related to maternal and newborn health, climate-positive development, innovation hubs, conservation infrastructure, and other impactful initiatives.

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

Host Institution

The fellowship is hosted by through the in Kigali, Rwanda.

Program Type

Fully Funded

Program Benefits

The ADC Fellowship is a paid fellowship program, giving selected fellows financial support during the residency period in Kigali, Rwanda. Participants will receive mentorship from MASS program staff as well as professional design mentors who will guide them throughout the fellowship journey.

Fellows will engage in culturally rooted research, participate in community-based design projects, and publish reflective work documenting their learning and impact. The program offers a rare opportunity to collaborate with leading African designers, architects, and innovators while gaining practical experience on high-impact projects shaping the future of African cities and communities.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must be nationals of an African country and should be 35 years old or younger at the time of application. Candidates are expected to be built-environment professionals holding a degree in architecture, urban design, landscape architecture, engineering, or a closely related field. The fellowship is designed for individuals who are passionate about advancing social justice, environmental responsibility, and culturally grounded design solutions rooted in African heritage and indigenous knowledge systems.

Applicants must also be willing and able to relocate to Kigali, Rwanda, for the full fellowship duration running from October 2026 to September 2027. Ideal candidates should demonstrate curiosity, collaboration, creativity, and a strong commitment to community-driven development.

Eligible Countries

Eligible Countries

The fellowship is open to applicants from all African countries. Candidates must be nationals of an African nation to qualify for the program.

Application Procedure

Click the official link below to apply for this opportunity

Official Link

https://modelofarchitecture.org/mass-opens-applications-next-cohort-african-design-centre-fellowship