About the Mandela Washington Fellowship
Fellowship Overview
The Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders is the premier program under the U.S. Government’s Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI). Since its inception in 2014, nearly 6,500 young leaders from every country in Sub-Saharan Africa have participated, each selected for their demonstrated commitment to innovation and positive impact within their communities and countries. This fellowship targets accomplished leaders aged 25 to 35, fostering the next generation of African changemakers.
Fellowship Components
Leadership Institutes
Fellows participate in six-week Leadership Institutes at U.S. colleges or universities, focusing on Business, Civic Engagement, or Public Management. These institutes provide an immersive experience where Fellows can exchange best practices, broaden their perspectives, and enrich local U.S. communities with their insights.
Mandela Washington Fellowship Summit
Following the Leadership Institutes, Fellows gather for a Summit, which provides a platform for networking with peers, U.S. leaders from various sectors, and setting the stage for long-term engagement between the United States and Africa. This event is crucial for forging meaningful connections that extend beyond the Fellowship.
Professional Development Experiences (PDEs)
Fellows may apply for Professional Development Experiences, which allow them to work with private, public, or non-profit organizations in the U.S. for up to six weeks. These experiences enable both Fellows and host organizations to exchange knowledge and perspectives, addressing shared challenges and fostering international engagement.
Reciprocal Exchanges
The Fellowship also supports U.S. citizens in traveling to Sub-Saharan African countries to collaborate with Fellowship Alumni. These exchanges strengthen professional connections, expand networks, and promote mutual understanding, leading to long-lasting partnerships.
Opportunities for Alumni
Fellowship Alumni benefit from ongoing professional development and networking opportunities, supported by the U.S. Department of State and affiliated partners. These resources help Alumni continue building on the skills and connections developed during the Fellowship, contributing to their communities and beyond.
Application and Eligibility Information
Are you ready to join the next generation of African leaders? The Mandela Washington Fellowship will bring up to 700 young leaders to the United States in the summer of 2025 for an intensive program designed to enhance your leadership abilities and empower you to make a difference in your sector and community.
The Fellowship offers:
- Participation in a six-week Leadership Institute at a U.S. college or university.
- Opportunities to explore industries beyond your current work and expand your expertise.
- Attendance at a Summit with other young African leaders.
- Meetings with U.S. Government, civic, and business leaders.
- Access to a continental and global Alumni Network.
- Opportunities to strengthen your work through new skills, connections, and ideas.
Application and Selection Timeline
- August 13, 2024: Application opens
- September 10, 2024: Application deadline
- November 2024 – January 2025: Semi-finalist interviews conducted by local U.S. embassies and consulates
- March 2025: Applicants notified of their status
- May 2025: Visa processing and Pre-Departure Orientations for Finalists
- June 2025: Fellowship begins in the United States
Application and Selection Process
The selection process is highly competitive and merit-based. After the application deadline, independent readers review all eligible applications. Semi-finalists are interviewed by U.S. embassies or consulates in their home countries. Selected finalists must attend a mandatory Pre-Fellowship Orientation in their home country.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Age 25-35 as of the application deadline (exceptional applicants aged 21-24 may be considered).
- Not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
- Eligible for a United States J-1 visa.
- Not an employee or immediate family member of a U.S. Government employee.
- Proficient in English.
- Citizen and resident of a Sub-Saharan African country listed in the eligibility criteria.
- Not a previous participant in the Mandela Washington Fellowship.
Finalists must provide government-issued photo identification at the time of the interview. Please note, Fellows are not permitted to bring dependents, including spouses and children, during the Fellowship.
The U.S. Department of State and IREX reserve the right to verify all application information. Discrepancies or false information will result in disqualification.
How to Apply
The Mandela Washington Fellowship is an unparalleled opportunity to develop your leadership skills, expand your network, and contribute to your community.
Review our tips for preparing a strong application!
Apply Now and become part of a community of leaders driving positive change across Africa!
For further details, visit our Application Resources and Frequently Asked Questions pages.