Application Deadline: December 30, 2025
Applications are now open for the 2026 Umholi we Africa (UwA) Fellowship. The Umholi we Africa (UwA) Fellowship is your gateway to a career of influence, impact, and service. Fully funded and designed for exceptional young African changemakers, this 12-month fellowship places you directly in high-impact government and policy roles, working alongside ministers, members of parliament, and senior public leaders in your home country.
Each year, the fellowship places outstanding graduates of the African Leadership Academy and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program in strategic roles supporting ministers, members of parliament, and senior public sector leaders in their home countries. Fellows contribute directly to national development through research, policy analysis, project management, communications, and strategic advisory work—while receiving world-class leadership training and mentorship.
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be an African national;
- Must be a graduate of the African Leadership Academy (ALA) or a graduate of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program;
- Must hold a minimum of a university degree;
- Must have at least 4 years of professional experience;
- Must demonstrate passion for public service and an aspiration to pursue political or policy leadership roles.
Fellows
As a fellow, you will:
- Support high-level public leaders in research, data collection, policy analysis, and strategic advisory tasks..
- Assist in project planning, budgeting, monitoring, and evaluation within government or policy institutions.
- Draft policy briefs, reports, speeches, and communication materials.
- Facilitate stakeholder consultations, community engagement, and public outreach activities.
- Participate in leadership training, mentorship, and ongoing coaching through the AL for Governance network.
- Uphold the values of ethical leadership, accountability, and innovation in public service
For More Information:
Visit the Official Webpage of the Umholi we Africa (UwA) Fellowship
