The Elevate Africa Fellowship has officially opened applications for its 2026 Cohort II, inviting exceptional mid-career professionals who are actively shaping Africa’s future to apply.
This 10-month hybrid leadership fellowship is designed for individuals with 10–15 years of professional experience who demonstrate a strong commitment to ethical leadership, continental development, and long-term impact.
The fellowship offers a unique platform for reflection, growth, and collaboration, bringing together a Pan-African community of leaders from diverse sectors who are united by a shared vision for Africa’s transformation.
About the Elevate Africa Fellowship
The Elevate Africa Fellowship is a leadership development initiative focused on strengthening values-driven, impact-oriented leadership across Africa and the African diaspora. The programme recognizes that Africa’s future depends on leaders who can think systemically, act collaboratively, and lead with integrity across complex political, social, and economic landscapes.
Rather than a traditional academic programme, the fellowship emphasizes experiential learning, mentorship, and peer exchange, allowing fellows to sharpen their leadership practice while remaining embedded in their professional roles.
Who the Elevate Africa Fellowship Is For
The fellowship is specifically tailored for mid-career professionals who have already demonstrated leadership and influence within their fields and are now seeking to scale their impact.
Eligiblity Criteria
Applicants should:
- Have 10–15 years of professional experience
- Be based in Africa or part of the African diaspora
- Demonstrate a track record of impact, leadership, and service
- Be motivated to contribute to Africa’s long-term development
Professionals from all sectors are encouraged to apply, including:
- Public policy and governance
- Business and entrepreneurship
- Civil society and development
- Academia and research
- Technology, health, climate, and social innovation
Fellowship Structure and Duration
The Elevate Africa Fellowship runs for 10 months and follows a hybrid format, allowing participants to balance professional responsibilities while engaging deeply in the programme.
Programme Format
- Virtual learning sessions with expert facilitators
- Mentorship engagements with experienced Pan-African leaders
- Peer learning and dialogue within a diverse cohort
- Curated leadership experiences grounded in African realities
This structure ensures flexibility while maintaining the depth and rigor required for meaningful leadership development.
What Fellows Will Gain
Selected fellows will benefit from a comprehensive leadership journey designed to strengthen both individual leadership capacity and collective continental impact.
Key Benefits
Fellows will receive:
- Structured mentorship from accomplished Pan-African leaders across sectors
- Access to a high-impact professional network spanning the continent and diaspora
- Curated learning experiences that deepen leadership thinking, ethics, and practice
- Opportunities for collaboration, peer support, and long-term partnerships
Beyond technical leadership skills, the programme places strong emphasis on purpose, identity, and responsibility, equipping fellows to navigate complex leadership challenges with clarity and confidence.
A Pan-African Community of Leaders
One of the fellowship’s most distinctive strengths is its Pan-African orientation. Fellows join a growing network of leaders committed to cross-border collaboration, shared learning, and collective action.
Through dialogue and joint problem-solving, fellows gain exposure to:
- Diverse African leadership contexts and perspectives
- Regional and continental challenges and opportunities
- Shared strategies for sustainable and inclusive development
Apply Here
