Applications are now open for the 2027 Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders, a six-week leadership and professional development programme that will bring approximately 550 young African leaders to the United States in summer 2027. Fellows participate in an executive-style programme at a U.S. college or university in one of three tracks: Business, Civic Engagement, or Public Management. The programme provides opportunities to learn from American experts, build professional relationships, and explore innovation, industry, history, and culture in the United States.
Key Eligibility Criteria
- Age: Be between 25 and 35 years old on or before the application deadline. Exceptional applicants aged 21-24 may also be considered.
- Citizenship: Be a citizen of an eligible African country, and a resident there as of February 1, 2027, and at the start of the Fellowship in June 2027.
- Language: Be proficient in reading, writing, and speaking English.
- Visa Eligibility: Be eligible to receive a U.S. J-1 visa.
- Status: Not be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and not be an employee or immediate family member of an employee of the U.S. Government.
- Prior Participation: Not have previously participated in the Mandela Washington Fellowship.
Eligible countries include Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, Senegal, Ethiopia, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and other participating African countries listed in the application requirements.
Note: Fellows cannot bring dependents, including spouses or children, along during the Fellowship.
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What the Fellowship Offers
- A six-week executive-style institute at a U.S. college or university.
- Direct engagement with American experts on business and trade, emerging technologies, and governance and security.
- Meetings with American leaders from the public and private sectors.
- Building professional relationships with American counterparts.
- Exposure to American innovation, industry, history, and culture.
- Membership in an active network of nearly 7,800 alumni.
Selection Criteria
- English-language proficiency.
- A proven record of accomplishment in business, trade, emerging technologies, governance, and/or security.
- Interest in developing partnerships with American organisations and businesses.
- Commitment to return to Sub-Saharan Africa and contribute skills to their communities.
- Ability to work cooperatively with others, strong social and communication skills.
- Adaptability and ability to lead effectively in different environments.
Selection Process
The Fellowship uses a merit-based open competition. After the deadline, eligible applications are reviewed and scored against the selection criteria. Selected semifinalists are then interviewed in person by U.S. embassies and consulates in their home countries, and must provide a valid passport or other government-issued photo ID at the interview. Selected finalists must attend a mandatory in-person pre-departure orientation.
How to Apply
Review the 2027 Application Instructions before starting, then apply through the official Mandela Washington Fellowship application portal before the deadline of October 13, 2026, at 4:00 PM GMT.
Disclaimer
Edfrica shares opportunities for informational purposes only. Results and outcomes are not guaranteed.
