In the summer of 2024, the Mandela Washington Fellowship is set to welcome up to 700 emerging leaders to the United States.
Fellows receive full sponsorship to the USA, covering all travel, accommodation, and meal expenses, for an intensive executive-style program aimed at enhancing skills and empowering them to lead in their fields and communities.
This post provides an in-depth guide on the program’s details, benefits, requirements, and a step-by-step application process for a successful submission.
Summary
- Host Country: United States of America (USA)
- Study Abroad Opportunity: Study in the USA
- Program Category: Fellowships
- Eligibility: Open to African Countries
- Benefits: Full Sponsorship | Travel Expenses | Accommodation
Application Deadline: September 1, 2024
Scholarship Updates: To get updates o, click HERE
Fellowship Details:
The U.S. Department of State, in collaboration with IREX, is inviting academic, professional, and regional experts to participate in reading and evaluating applications for the 2025 Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders.
This prestigious Fellowship offers young African leaders the chance to come to the United States for academic courses and leadership training, fostering collaboration, promoting economic growth and prosperity, strengthening democratic governance, and enhancing peace and security both in Africa and the United States.
As a reader, you will evaluate around 50 applications following specific guidelines and a scoring rubric. This volunteer role presents a valuable opportunity for professional development and résumé enhancement for both professionals and students.
Requirements for Mandela Washington Fellowship 2024
The Mandela Washington Fellowship invites applications from young African leaders who satisfy the following qualifications:
- Are between the ages of 25 and 35 on or before the application deadline, although exceptional applicants ages 21-24 will be considered;
- Are proficient in reading, writing, and speaking English (additional guidance coming for applicants who are deaf);
- Are citizens of one of the following countries:
- Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Cote d’Ivoire,
- Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius,
- Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia, or Zimbabwe;
- Applicants will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, socioeconomic status, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
- Ideal readers are academics and/or professionals with expertise in one or more of the Fellowship’s thematic areas (business, civic engagement, or public management), or who have experience working in Africa or on sub-Saharan African issues.
U.S. Government employees and Fellowship Alumni are eligible. Applicants for the 2024 Fellowship are not eligible to be readers.
Duration and Reward
The Fellowship offers a unique, fully funded opportunity to;
- Engage in a six-week Leadership Institute at an American college or university, where you’ll exchange experiences with U.S. citizens and fellow participants.
- Delve into industries outside your usual scope to broaden your knowledge.
- Attend a Summit alongside young African leaders.
- Connect with leaders from the U.S. Government, civic organizations, and the business sector.
- Enhance your professional efforts through new relationships, skills, and insights.
- Become part of a continental and global Alumni Network to find innovative solutions to shared challenges.
Criteria for Selection for Mandela Washington Fellowship
Applications will be assessed based on the following criteria (listed in no particular order):
- A track record of effective leadership and notable achievements within the realms of business, community involvement, or public service;
- A tangible dedication to serving the public or community, whether through volunteer work or mentorship;
- Proficiency in collaborative teamwork across diverse settings, with a genuine regard for differing viewpoints;
- Excellent interpersonal and communication abilities;
- A vibrant, optimistic demeanor;
- Proven expertise, keen interest, and practical experience within the desired sector/track;
- A solemn pledge to utilize acquired leadership prowess and training for the betterment of one’s homeland or community upon returning to Africa.
How To Apply for Mandela Washington Fellowship 2024 (Step by Step)
Interested and eligible individuals keen on applying for the Mandela Washington Fellowship are encouraged to adhere to the outlined procedures provided below:
- Tap the designated button to navigate to the fellowship application page.
- Select the “Apply Now to Be A Fellowship Reader” option.
- For inquiries, reach out to the Fellowship Team at MWFReaders@irex.org.
- Remember, the Mandela Washington Fellowship selection process operates on a merit-based open competition model.
Deadline: September 1, 2024
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