The AMEL – The African Middle Eastern Leadership Project has officially opened applications for the Spring 2026 cohort of the AMEL Institute, its flagship online activist training program for emerging leaders across the Middle East and Africa (MEA). Designed to empower the next generation of changemakers, the AMEL Institute equips young activists with the knowledge, practical skills, and networks needed to create safe, inclusive, and impactful social change in their communities. What Is the AMEL Institute? The AMEL Institute is a fully online, interactive leadership program focused on activism, civic engagement, and democratic values. It brings together young leaders from across the MEA region to engage in meaningful dialogue, build leadership capacity, and develop tools for responsible and effective advocacy. The Spring 2026 program will run from late March to late May 2026 and is completely free of charge for all selected participants. Program Focus Areas Participants in the AMEL Institute explore a wide range of themes essential to ethical and sustainable activism, including: Human rights and international frameworks Peacebuilding and conflict resolution Democratic participation and civic engagement Inclusive leadership practices Safe activism strategies Community organizing and advocacy Through live sessions, discussions, collaborative exercises, and mentorship opportunities, participants gain both theoretical knowledge and practical tools that can be applied in real-world contexts. Why Join the AMEL Institute? 1. Develop Practical Activism Skills The program emphasizes actionable learning. Participants leave with concrete strategies for organizing, advocacy, coalition-building, and protecting themselves and their communities while engaging in civic work. 2. Build a Cross-Regional Network The AMEL Institute connects young leaders from diverse backgrounds across Africa and the Middle East. These connections foster long-term collaboration and solidarity among changemakers facing similar challenges in different contexts. 3. Learn in a Safe, Inclusive Environment The program is structured to encourage respectful dialogue, diverse perspectives, and inclusive participation. It provides a safe space for participants to explore complex issues while strengthening their leadership identities. 4. Access a Fully Funded Opportunity There are no participation fees. The program is fully online, eliminating travel and accommodation costs and making it accessible to young leaders regardless of location. Who Should Apply? The AMEL Institute is ideal for young leaders, activists, and community organizers across the Middle East and Africa who are passionate about: Advancing human rights Strengthening democratic systems Promoting peace and social justice Building inclusive communities Applicants should be motivated to engage in collaborative learning and committed to participating in the full duration of the program. Application Details Program Duration: Late March – Late May 2026 Format: Fully online Cost: Free Application Deadline: February 21, 2026 (23:59 GMT) Applications are available in multiple languages, including English, French, and Arabic, ensuring broad accessibility across the region. Not Ready to Apply? Prospective participants who are not yet ready to submit an application can sign up to receive notifications about upcoming AMEL Institute programs and related opportunities. About AMEL Headquartered in Washington, DC, the African Middle Eastern Leadership Project works to strengthen youth leadership, civic engagement, and cross-regional collaboration. Through programs like the AMEL Institute, the organization invests in young changemakers who are committed to building more just, peaceful, and inclusive societies. For aspiring activists across the Middle East and Africa, the AMEL Institute offers more than training—it provides a platform for growth, connection, and transformative leadership in 2026 and beyond. For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization that is offering this course. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.