The uOttawa Refugee Hub Fellowship for Refugee Leaders 2025 is now accepting applications. The paid fellowship program is designed to support refugee leaders who want to build new skills, grow their impact, and contribute to global solutions for displaced people.
Hosted by the University of Ottawa Refugee Hub – Pathways International, the fellowship offers tailored mentorship, professional development, and a $20,000 stipend, plus $5,000 for training, events, and resources. It connects fellows with a global network of refugee advocates, experts, and changemakers working to build better pathways to protection for refugees and migrants.
This opportunity is open to refugee leaders around the world, with one remote position available in Brazil or Colombia and another for a Canada-based fellow who can travel to Ottawa. If you’re passionate about refugee rights and ready to lead change, this fellowship will help you take the next step.
Quick Overview of the uOttawa Refugee Hub Fellowship 2025
- Host Country: Canada (remote and travel-based roles)
- Host Organization: University of Ottawa Refugee Hub – Pathways International
- Deadline: July 11, 2025
- Programs: Refugee leadership and global refugee system development
- Value: $20,000 CAD stipend + $5,000 CAD professional development fund
- Age Limit: No age limit specified
- Eligibility: Refugee leaders with lived experience of displacement and demonstrated leadership in refugee-led or displacement-focused initiatives
Perks of the Global Refugee Leadership Fellowship
- $25,000 CAD in total support ($20k stipend + $5k professional development fund)
- One-on-one mentorship with senior team members
- Customized development plan based on your interests and goals
- Involvement in real global projects on refugee protection
- Membership on the Refugee Advisory Board for Latin America
- Access to learning resources from the University of Ottawa
- Travel to Canada to attend a specialized course on Global Pathways to Refugee Protection
- Networking with experts, NGOs, and global refugee leaders
Benefits of the Pathways International Fellowship for Refugees
- Gain hands-on learning in leadership, policymaking, project management, and refugee protection.
- Build your professional profile, contribute to international projects, and gain access to global opportunities.
- Receive mentorship, join an alumni network, and build confidence as a changemaker and social entrepreneur.
Exclusions of the University of Ottawa Refugee Fellowship
- Only individuals with lived experience of forced displacement may apply.
- Applicants must be eligible to travel to Canada (valid passport and visa).
- Fellowship activities must be carried out in English.
- Candidates must commit 20 hours per month for one year.
- Those unable to travel to Ottawa for the required course may not be eligible.
Eligibility Criteria for the Fellowship in Canada
To apply, you must:
- Have lived experience of displacement (refugee, asylum-seeker, stateless, or internally displaced).
- Show proven leadership in a Refugee-Led Organization, advisory group, or initiative.
- Have a track record of impact in improving refugee-related policy or programs.
- Be proficient in English (other languages are an asset).
- Be available to travel to Ottawa for an in-person course.
Additional skills that are valued:
- Collaboration and teamwork abilities.
- Clear communication and problem-solving skills.
- Interest in innovation, entrepreneurship, and event or stakeholder engagement.
Important Dates of the uOttawa Refugee Hub Fellowship
- Application Deadline: July 11, 2025
- Selection Period: July 11 – August 15, 2025
- Fellowship Start: September 15, 2025
- Fellowship End: September 2026
How to Apply to the Paid Fellowship for Refugee Leaders
- Prepare your CV highlighting your leadership and refugee-related work.
- Record a 2–3 minute video answering:
- “What personal experiences have shaped your journey as a refugee leader, and how will participating in this fellowship help you make a lasting impact on refugee communities?”
- Email your video to: job@pathways.email
- Optionally, check if additional forms or cover letters are requested on the official portal:
https://pathways.bamboohr.com/careers/54
Required Documents for Leadership Development Fellowship in Canada
- Updated CV or résumé
- 2–3 minute video statement (with a clear answer to the question above)
- Valid passport or proof of ability to travel to Canada (for selected candidates)
- (Optional) Cover letter, if requested via the application form
Country-Specific Criteria for the uOttawa Refugee Hub Fellowship
This fellowship is open globally to any refugee leaders, regardless of country of origin. However:
- One fellow must be based in Canada and able to travel to Ottawa.
- One fellow must be based in Brazil or Colombia and also be eligible for travel to Canada.
- All fellows must attend the course in Ottawa and participate in all activities virtually or in person.
