Mandela Washington Fellowship

Overview

Leadership programme for young African professionals with academic coursework, leadership training and networking.

About U.S. Department of State

The Mandela Washington Fellowship is the flagship programme of the U.S. Department of State's Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), bringing young African leaders to the United States for a six-week academic and leadership institute at a U.S. university, followed by a professional development experience. It's aimed specifically at early-to-mid-career leaders in business, civic engagement or public management, rather than students seeking a traditional academic credential.

Coverage & Financial Benefits

• Fully Funded

Requirements & Eligibility

• Target level: Young African leaders

How to Apply

1. 1Confirm your eligibility — the Fellowship is open to citizens of eligible Sub-Saharan African countries, generally aged 25-35, with a demonstrated leadership track record.
2. 2Complete the official online application, including its required essays on leadership experience and future plans, entirely in English.
3. 3Submit before the published annual deadline — the Fellowship runs on a single yearly application cycle, not rolling admission.