The Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders is a prestigious and fully funded opportunity offered by the U.S. Department of State. Launched in 2014 as a part of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), the fellowship aims to empower young African leaders through academic coursework, leadership training, and networking opportunities in the United States. Each year, up to 700 outstanding young leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa are selected to participate in this intensive six-week program, where they are placed at leading U.S. universities to hone their leadership skills and deepen their professional knowledge.
The fellowship in the US provides a unique platform for young Africans to gain exposure to U.S. academic institutions and the American way of life while fostering mutual understanding between the United States and Africa. Participants engage in various leadership tracks, including Business, Civic Engagement, and Public Management, allowing them to explore best practices in these fields and apply them to their work in their home countries. The program culminates in a high-profile summit in Washington, D.C., where fellows have the chance to network with U.S. leaders from public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
Apart from the academic and leadership components, the Mandela Washington Fellowship also offers an optional four-week Professional Development Experience (PDE) for a select group of fellows. This hands-on opportunity allows fellows to gain practical experience in a U.S. business, NGO, or government agency, providing them with the skills needed to tackle challenges in their communities back home. After completing the fellowship, alumni continue to benefit from various opportunities, including grants, professional development resources, and networking events, ensuring that the impact of the program extends far beyond the fellowship period.
Quick Overview of Mandela Washington Fellowship in the USA
- Host Country: United States of America
- Host University: Various leading U.S. universities
- Deadline: September 10, 2024
- Programs: Leadership in Business, Leadership in Civic Engagement, Leadership in Public Management
- Scholarship Value: Fully funded (includes visa, travel, accommodation, meals, and insurance)
- Age Limit: 25-35 years (exceptional applicants aged 21-24 may be considered)
- Eligibility: Citizens and residents of Sub-Saharan African countries
Perks of the Fellowship in the USA
- Leadership training at top U.S. universities
- Networking opportunities with U.S. leaders
- Participation in a high-level summit in Washington, D.C.
- Access to a global network of alumni and ongoing professional development resources
- Optional Professional Development Experience (PDE) for hands-on training
Benefits of the YALI Fellowship
- Comprehensive leadership development tailored to African contexts
- Exposure to U.S. academic, business, and governance practices
- Opportunities for cross-cultural exchange and collaboration
- Enhanced professional skills applicable to your home country
- Long-term engagement and support through alumni networks
Exclusions of the Mandela Fellowship
- No salary compensation during the fellowship period
- No financial support for personal purchases or dependents
- Meals may differ from those available in your home country
- No dependent visas or allowances for family members
Eligibility Criteria for the Washington Fellowship
- Age: 25-35 years (exceptional candidates aged 21-24 may be considered)
- Citizenship: Must be a citizen and resident of an eligible Sub-Saharan African country
- Language: Proficiency in English is required
- Visa: Eligible to receive a J-1 visa for the United States
- Other: Must not be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or employee of the U.S. Government
Important Dates for the Mandela Washington Fellowship 2025
- Application Opens: August 13, 2024
- Application Deadline: September 10, 2024
- Semi-finalist Interviews: November 2024 – January 2025
- Finalist Notification: Early March 2025
- Visa Processing & Pre-Fellowship Activities: May 2025
- Fellowship Start Date: June 2025
How to Apply for the Mandela Washington Fellowship in the US
- Visit the official application portal: apply.mandelawashingtonfellowship.org
- Create an account and complete the online application
- Prepare all necessary documents, including your resume, essays, and proof of citizenship
- Submit your application by the deadline: September 10, 2024
Required Documents for the Mandela Washington Fellowship
- Resume/CV: Detailing your professional and academic background
- Essays: Addressing your leadership experience, community involvement, and goals
- Proof of Citizenship: Passport or other government-issued ID
- Letters of Recommendation: Optional but recommended for a stronger application
- English Proficiency Documentation: If applicable
For more information or to get started, visit the Mandela Fellowship page.
