Application Deadline: March 1st, 2026
Applications are now open for the 2026 DAWN Fellowship Programme. The fellowship supports young women feminists from the Global South and centres on the Political Economy of Gender-Based Violence and Conflict. It is intended for an emerging woman feminist with a demonstrated commitment to women’s rights and gender justice. The fellow will develop a project that advances critical
understanding of how gender-based violence and conflict shape gendered power relations and amplify feminist perspectives in public discourse.
This year, the fellowship will consider applications focusing on conflict-affected contexts in Sudan, Palestine, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Projects centred on other regions will not be considered in this funding cycle.
Eligibility Requirements
- Applicants must be women feminists under the age of 40.
- Applicants should be from the Global South.
- Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to feminist principles and methodologies.
- Proposals can include research, advocacy, mobilisation, resistance, or creative expression.
- Proposals must align with the theme of The Political Economy of Gender-Based Violence and Conflict.
- Applications are open only for projects engaging with conflict-affected contexts in Sudan, Palestine, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
- Only individuals are eligible to apply; applications from organisations, groups, or collectives will not be accepted.
Fellowship Benefits
Financial support
A stipend of USD 1,200 per month for 10 months, which can be used to cover research or project expenses, including materials, travel, and living costs. The fellowship is not intended to cover all project-related costs, and applicants should declare other sources of funding that might cover additional expenses.
Mentorship and networking
Access to a network of experienced feminist researchers, advocates, and activists for guidance and support.
Dissemination opportunities
- Ability to present and publish project findings via DAWN’s platforms.
Proposal submission
Applicants complete and submit the fellowship application document, detailing the project’s objectives, methodology, expected outcomes, and timeline. Applications must be submitted via the official application form only.
Language requirements
Proposals must be submitted in English. Applicants may use translation or AI-based tool only to translate their proposal. However, fellows must be able to participate in mentorship and exchanges in English, as the fellowship is conducted in English.
Supporting documents
Applicants submit a detailed CV, one letter of recommendation from a non-related referee, and a
statement of motivation.
Project expenses
Applicants submit a detailed project budget aligned with the fellowship amount.
Review and selection
A selection committee will review the applications based on relevance, feasibility, originality, and potential impact. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview to discuss their proposals in more detail. Only shortlisted candidates will be informed and contacted.
How to Apply
The application process includes three mandatory components:
Online Application Form
Applicants must complete the Google Form with basic personal and contact information.
Supporting Documents
Applicants must upload, via the application form, the following supporting documents: Curriculum Vitae (CV), Statement of Motivation, one letter of recommendation (from a non-related referee).
Fillable Application Document
Applicants must download, complete, and upload the official fillable PDF application document, which contains the core proposal questions. This document must be completed in full and uploaded via the application form.
IMPORTANT
- All components must be submitted through the application form.
- Applications submitted partially or sent by email will not be reviewed.
- Only complete applications submitted before the deadline will be considered.
Application Timeline
- 19 January 2026: Call for Applications
- 1 March 2026: Application Deadline
- 30 April 2026: Selection Process Ends. Only Shortlisted applicants will be contacted by 30 April
- 1 May to 30 June 2026: The fellowship is expected to begin at the fellow’s convenience between 1 May 2026 and 30 June 2026
For More Information:
Visit the Official Webpage of the DAWN Fellowship Programme
