Chatham House Mo Ibrahim Foundation Academy Fellowship 2026/2027: Fully Funded Leadership Programme in London with £2,565 Monthly Stipend

The Chatham House Mo Ibrahim Foundation Academy Fellowship 2026/2027 is one of the most prestigious fully funded leadership opportunities for emerging African professionals seeking to make a meaningful impact in international affairs, policy, and global development. Delivered by Chatham House—the Royal Institute of International Affairs—in partnership with the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, this fellowship provides a unique platform for individuals at the early-to-mid stage of their careers to engage in high-level research, leadership training, and global networking.

This opportunity is specifically designed to empower African leaders with the knowledge, skills, and networks required to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

Application Deadline

• Deadline: 7 April 2026

About the Fellowship

The fellowship offers selected candidates the opportunity to spend 10 months in London, working at Chatham House on a self-designed research project while actively contributing to global policy discussions.

Participants will:

• Engage in cutting-edge research
• Build leadership and policy expertise
• Collaborate with global experts
• Expand their international professional networks

This programme is structured to combine academic research, practical experience, and leadership development.

Duration and Location

• Duration: October 2026 – July 2027 (10 months)
• Location: Chatham House, London (with hybrid work options available)

Fellows are expected to fully commit to the programme on a full-time basis.

Financial Coverage and Benefits

This is a fully funded fellowship, ensuring that participants can focus entirely on their professional and academic development.

Financial Support

• Monthly stipend of £2,565 to cover:
  • Accommodation
  • Food
  • Utilities
  • Transportation

Additional Benefits

• Travel and relocation costs covered
• Visa sponsorship (T5 Temporary Work route)
• UK Immigration Health Surcharge covered
• Research-related expenses funded (fieldwork, publications, events)

Post-Fellowship Benefits

• Five-year membership at Chatham House
• Continued access to Academy faculty and alumni network

Fellowship Structure

The programme is divided into three core components to ensure a well-rounded experience:

1. Personal Research Project (60%)

• Fellows design and execute a research project of their choice
• Guided by a Chatham House expert
• Focused on global policy or international affairs issues

2. Leadership Masterclass Programme (20%)

• Intensive induction week
• Leadership workshops and thematic discussions
• Policy and strategy training sessions
• Media and communication training

3. Contribution to Research Activities (20%)

• Collaboration with Chatham House research teams
• Contribution to ongoing projects and publications

Leadership Masterclass Programme Details

The leadership component is a central pillar of the fellowship and includes:

1. Induction Week
   • Introduction to the fellowship structure
   • Initial coaching session
2. Thematic Sessions
   • Discussions on global challenges with experts
   • Peer-led sessions and collaborative learning
3. Leadership Skills Workshops
   • Policy impact strategies
   • Stakeholder mapping
   • Crisis management
   • Negotiation skills
4. Leadership Briefings
   • Engagement with global leaders across sectors
5. Project Presentations
   • Regular updates and peer review
6. Personal Development Coaching
   • One-on-one sessions with a professional coach
7. Media Training
   • Interview techniques for TV and radio
8. Career Mentoring (Optional)
   • Guidance from experienced professionals

Eligibility Criteria

To apply, candidates must meet the following requirements:

Citizenship

• Must be a citizen of an African country
• Dual nationals (including an African country) are eligible

Education

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) required
• Demonstrated research experience

Professional Background

Applicants should be in the early-to-mid stage of their career and may come from:

• Academia
• Government
• NGOs
• Business sector
• Civil society
• Media

Additional Requirements

• Strong interest in international affairs
• Alignment with Chatham House mission
• Demonstrated leadership potential
• Ability to communicate effectively in English

Age Limit

• No age restriction

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit:

• CV or résumé
• Names of two referees
• Research proposal aligned with programme themes

Apply Here

Selection Criteria and Process

Selection Criteria

Applicants will be assessed based on:

• Nationality eligibility
• Research experience and academic/professional background
• Leadership experience or potential
• Alignment with Chatham House mission
• Ability to create impact
• Communication skills and motivation

Selection Process

1. Application Review
   • Shortlisting by selection committee
2. Interview Stage
   • Virtual interviews via Zoom
3. Final Selection
   • Successful candidates notified via email

Why This Fellowship Matters

This fellowship is a career-defining opportunity because it:

• Provides access to a globally respected policy institute
• Builds leadership and research capacity
• Connects fellows with influential global networks
• Enables real-world policy impact
• Strengthens Africa’s representation in global discussions

Click HERE for more information about the Chatham House Mo Ibrahim Foundation Academy Fellowship.

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