DefendDefenders and AfricanDefenders are launching a special initiative, The Roots of Resistance, in honour of DefendDefenders’ 20th anniversary. This unique mentorship programme seeks to bring together emerging and seasoned human rights advocates from across the African continent to foster mutual learning, connection, and collective action. Celebrating two decades of standing alongside human rights defenders, this moment presents an opportunity to look toward the future by empowering the next generation of changemakers.

This mentorship journey aims to create a bridge between younger defenders and experienced leaders in the human rights space. It is open to young individuals aged 18 to 30 who are currently involved in any area of human rights advocacy—ranging from free speech and environmental protection to digital inclusion and civic engagement. Applicants must be either based in Africa or working closely on African human rights matters and should demonstrate a commitment to growth, knowledge sharing, and strengthening regional solidarity.

Participants in the programme will be matched with accomplished African defenders for a period of guided interaction and development. Through a combination of online and in-person engagement, mentees will take part in knowledge exchange, practical training, and community-building activities. The experience is designed not just to sharpen their skills but to deepen their sense of purpose and belonging within a pan-African movement for justice and equality.

Those selected will benefit from access to expert guidance, spaces for visibility and advocacy, and the chance to participate in activities tied to the 20-year milestone of DefendDefenders. The programme also offers an avenue for long-lasting support networks that go beyond the formal mentorship itself.

Prospective candidates are encouraged to apply by sending a one-page expression of interest detailing their advocacy work and reasons for wishing to take part in the programme, alongside a CV or short biography (no more than two pages), and their basic contact information (name, age, nationality, preferred language, email address, and phone number). Applications must be submitted no later than 10 August 2025 via email to deew@defenddefenders.org, with trainings@defenddenders.org copied in the correspondence and the subject line clearly stating: “EOI – Mentorship Programme 2025.”

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