The Umholi we Africa (UwA) Fellowship is a fully funded 12-month leadership experience designed for exceptional young Africans who are ready to lead transformative change across the continent. The fellowship places talented professionals in high-impact public sector roles—working directly with ministers, members of parliament, senior policymakers, and top-level government institutions in their home countries.
This is an opportunity for purpose-driven individuals who want to influence governance, strengthen institutions, and shape Africa’s development from within.
Eligibility
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
• Must be an African national
• Must be an alumnus of either:
– African Leadership Academy (ALA) or
– Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
• Must hold at least a bachelor’s degree
• Must have a minimum of 4 years professional experience
• Must demonstrate passion for governance, public service, and policymaking
• Must show strong analytical, research, and interpersonal skills
• Must have a clear commitment to ethical leadership and civic impact
Benefits
• Serve in strategic government or policy roles
• Support senior public leaders through research, data analysis, advisory tasks, and policy evaluation
• Participate in government project planning, budgeting, monitoring, and evaluation
• Draft policy briefs, strategy documents, speeches, and analytical reports
• Lead or support stakeholder engagement, civic participation, and community outreach
• Receive training, mentorship, and coaching through the African Leadership (AL) for Governance network
• Build lifelong networks with public leaders, technocrats, and changemakers across Africa
• Grow as an ethical, accountable, and innovative public leader
What They Are Looking For
• Deep commitment to public service
• Interest in governance, policymaking, or political leadership
• Ability to drive institutional transformation
• Strong communication and problem-solving abilities
• A desire to influence national development agendas
Application Process
Download and complete the official application form
For more information, visit Umholi we Africa Fellowship.
