Deadline: November 30, 2025
The Harvard Global Health Institute (HGHI) and the Department of Global Health and Population at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health are now accepting applications for the 2026-2027 Harvard LEAD Fellowship for Promoting Women in Global Health.
This prestigious one-year fellowship is specifically designed for individuals from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) who are committed to advancing leadership in global health. The program aims to equip and empower fellows with the skills, knowledge, and network to lead transformative change in their countries and globally.
Fellowship Overview
The Harvard LEAD Fellowship runs from September 1, 2026, to August 31, 2027, combining virtual and in-person learning experiences. Fellows will engage in a 12-month personalized leadership development curriculum that includes:
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One-on-one executive leadership coaching
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Tailored mentorship with senior Harvard faculty
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Executive education courses
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Speaking opportunities at high-profile global health events
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Private leadership masterclasses led by Harvard experts
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Networking opportunities across Harvard University and beyond
A key component of the program is a six-week, in-residence experience at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, scheduled for April 2027. Fellows will participate in intensive workshops, courses, and leadership activities while building long-term connections with mentors, peers, and faculty.
What Makes the Harvard LEAD Fellowship Unique?
Unlike many traditional fellowships, the Harvard LEAD Fellowship is highly customizable. Each fellow creates their own leadership development plan, supported by Harvard faculty and mentors. The program offers:
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A chance to reflect and recalibrate as a global health leader.
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Direct access to Harvard’s world-class academic resources.
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Training that emphasizes gender equity and women’s leadership in global health.
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A supportive community of past and current fellows who now form a growing international network of global health leaders.
Since its inception, the fellowship has welcomed fellows from 18 countries across Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, and South America, representing diverse fields including health policy, clinical work, research, administration, and advocacy.
Key Program Components
1. Executive Leadership Coaching
Fellows work with an executive coach to enhance their leadership skills, supported by assessments such as the Leadership Versatility Index (LVI) 360. Coaching continues throughout the program to guide reintegration and sustained growth.
2. One-on-One Mentorship
Each fellow is paired with Harvard faculty mentors aligned with their professional interests. Past mentors include Dr. Ana Langer, Dr. Rifat Atun, Dr. Kathryn Rexrode, and Professor Alicia Yamin.
3. Speaking Opportunities
Fellows present at global health events, panel discussions, and Harvard-hosted programs, gaining international visibility as thought leaders.
4. Executive Education Courses
Fellows attend a Harvard executive education course, such as Women and Power at the Harvard Kennedy School.
5. Private Leadership Masterclasses
Fellows join small, interactive masterclasses covering:
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Public speaking and persuasive communication
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Negotiation and crisis leadership
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Conflict resolution and decision-making
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Designing equitable organizations
Eligibility Requirements
To apply, candidates must meet the following criteria:
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Hold at least a Master’s degree in a relevant field.
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Have a minimum of 10 years of professional experience in global health beyond formal education.
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Work full-time in global health with demonstrated leadership experience.
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Be able to take a 6-week leave of absence in April 2027 for the in-residence portion.
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Be eligible for a J-1 visa for the United States.
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Have not participated in a full-time fellowship (4+ months) in the past two years.
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Submit letters of institutional and mentor commitment, confirming employer support.
All expenses related to the in-residence experience—including visa fees, flights, housing, and a living stipend—are fully covered by the fellowship.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit the following by November 30, 2025 (11:59 PM EST):
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CV/Resume
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Letter of Intent (max 1.5 pages) describing professional journey and how the fellowship will create impact.
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Four short essays (2000 characters each):
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Career development/training plan
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Project plan
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Mentorship plan
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Fellowship impact on organization, field, and country
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Letter of Institutional Commitment supporting leave of absence.
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Letter of Mentor Commitment from a professional champion.
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Two additional reference letters (including one from current/recent professional engagement).
Applicants will be notified in Spring 2026 of their selection.
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Why Apply?
The Harvard LEAD Fellowship for Promoting Women in Global Health is more than an academic program—it is an opportunity to join a global movement of leaders shaping the future of health equity. By combining mentorship, leadership training, and global exposure, the fellowship empowers mid-career professionals to take their impact to the next level.
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Application Deadline
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Deadline: November 30, 2025
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Program Dates: September 1, 2026 – August 31, 2027
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In-Residence Period: April 2027 (6 weeks at Harvard University, Cambridge, MA)
For more information and to apply, visit the Harvard Global Health Institute Fellowship Page or contact HGHI_Fellowships@harvard.edu.
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