Applications open for the 2026 Umholi we Africa Fellowship
Africa’s most ambitious young leaders now have the chance to step directly into the engine rooms of government and policy. The Umholi we Africa Fellowship 2026 – a prestigious, fully funded 12-month placement programme – is accepting applications for its next cohort of exceptional African changemakers ready to serve at the highest levels of public leadership.
About the Umholi we Africa Fellowship
Launched by the African Leadership Academy (ALA) in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, Umholi we Africa (“Leaders of Africa” in isiZulu) is designed to fast-track the continent’s brightest young minds into positions of real influence. Each year, the fellowship selects a small, elite group of ALA and Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program alumni and embeds them as trusted advisors to ministers, members of parliament, permanent secretaries, and other senior public officials in their home countries.
Over the course of one intensive year, fellows become integral members of government teams—conducting policy research, drafting legislation and speeches, managing multimillion-dollar projects, and helping translate vision into action. At the same time, they receive world-class leadership development, one-on-one mentorship from sitting and former political leaders, and lifelong membership in the powerful AL for Governance network. Past fellows have shaped national budgets, led climate policy task forces, and even run successful parliamentary and local government campaigns after their placement.
What You’ll Do as a UwA Fellow
- Provide high-level research, data analysis, and strategic advice to ministers and senior officials
- Draft policy briefs, legislation, speeches, and public communications
- Lead project design, budgeting, monitoring, and stakeholder engagement
- Bridge government and citizens through community outreach and consultation
- Undergo continuous leadership training and executive coaching
- Join a pan-African community of ethical, innovative public servants committed to transformative governance
Eligibility Criteria
- African nationality and strong ties to your home country
- Graduate of the African Leadership Academy OR the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
- Minimum of a bachelor’s degree
- At least four years of professional or leadership experience
- Demonstrated passion for public service and a clear aspiration to pursue a career in policy or political leadership
Why Apply?
- This is not an internship or a training course—it is a fully funded, high-stakes placement that puts you at the decision-making table from day one. Fellows receive a competitive salary, housing support where needed, comprehensive health coverage, and unparalleled access to Africa’s current and future political leaders.
- Ready to serve, lead, and transform your nation from within?
- Application Deadline: 30 December 2025
- For full details and to submit your application, visit the Official Webpage of the Umholi we Africa (UwA) Fellowship
- Don’t just dream of changing Africa—step into the room where it happens. Apply today.
