Apply Now: Mandela Washington Fellowship 2027 for Young African Leaders

Young African leaders interested in strengthening their leadership skills, expanding their professional networks and gaining experience in the United States can apply for the Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders 2027.

The flagship programme of the U.S. Department of State’s Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), the Mandela Washington Fellowship brings emerging leaders from across sub-Saharan Africa to the United States for an intensive leadership development experience.

The 2027 programme is expected to provide selected Fellows with opportunities for academic learning, professional development, networking and engagement with U.S. institutions and communities.

What the Fellowship Offers

The Mandela Washington Fellowship is designed around three main tracks: Business, Civic Engagement, and Public Management.

During the U.S. experience, Fellows participate in leadership institutes hosted by U.S. colleges and universities. The programme combines academic sessions with practical learning, professional networking, community engagement and cultural activities.

Selected Fellows may also participate in additional opportunities designed to deepen their professional experience and connections.

The programme covers major costs associated with participation, making it a fully funded international leadership opportunity for successful applicants.

Support generally includes:

• J-1 visa support;
• Round-trip international travel to and from the United States;
• Domestic travel within the U.S. connected to the programme;
• Tuition and other costs associated with the leadership institute;
• Accommodation and meals;
• Local transportation during the programme;
• Accident and sickness benefit coverage.

Who Can Apply?

The fellowship is designed for young leaders from eligible sub-Saharan African countries who are making a difference in their communities, professions or organisations.

Applicants are generally expected to:

• Be citizens and residents of an eligible sub-Saharan African country;
• Be between 25 and 35 years old at the time specified in the application requirements, although exceptional applicants aged 21–24 may also be considered;
• Be eligible to receive a U.S. visa;
• Demonstrate leadership, professional achievement and community involvement;
• Have a strong record of public service, community engagement or entrepreneurial activity; and
• Be proficient in reading, writing and speaking English.

Applicants must also be able to participate fully in the programme in the United States.

Fellowship Tracks

Applicants are required to select one of the programme’s three leadership tracks:

Business: For entrepreneurs and business leaders working to grow enterprises, create employment and contribute to economic development.

Civic Engagement: For leaders involved in civil society, community development, advocacy and public-interest initiatives.

Public Management: For professionals working in government, public institutions and other areas of public administration.

The fellowship is intended for established emerging leaders who can demonstrate how their work is contributing to positive change.

Programme Benefits

Beyond the U.S. leadership institute, the Mandela Washington Fellowship provides participants with access to a growing network of African and American professionals.

Fellows join the YALI Network and become part of a community of leaders working across different sectors and countries.

The experience can provide opportunities to exchange ideas, build partnerships and develop relationships that continue beyond the fellowship.

Application Details

Programme: Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders 2027
Host country: United States of America
Eligible applicants: Young leaders from eligible sub-Saharan African countries
Age: Generally 25–35, with limited consideration for exceptional applicants aged 21–24
Tracks: Business, Civic Engagement and Public Management
Funding: Fully funded
Programme duration: Approximately six weeks in the United States
Application deadline: Applicants should check the official application portal for the current 2027 deadline.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should complete the online application through the official Mandela Washington Fellowship application portal.

Applicants should provide accurate information about their leadership experience, professional achievements, community involvement and future goals. They should also explain how participation in the fellowship would strengthen their ability to contribute to their communities and professional sectors.

Important: The Mandela Washington Fellowship does not charge an application fee. Applicants should rely on official U.S. government channels for application information and avoid third parties claiming to guarantee selection.

The fellowship offers young African leaders an opportunity to gain international exposure, develop practical leadership skills and build lasting connections with peers and institutions in the United States.

Interested applicants are advised to review the official eligibility requirements and application instructions before submitting their applications.