Georgetown University’s Collaborative on Global Children’s Issues is inviting applications for the 2027 Global Frontline Leaders cohort focused on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) for Children and Families. The 10-month international programme will bring together practitioners, researchers and policymakers working to improve mental health support for children, families and communities affected by conflict, displacement, climate pressures and extreme poverty. The programme offers a $7,500 USD stipend, virtual learning opportunities, mentorship and access to an international network of professionals working to strengthen mental health and psychosocial support systems. Participants will exchange knowledge, showcase promising approaches and explore practical solutions for improving care in crisis and low-resource settings. Applications are open to eligible professionals worldwide, with the deadline set for 6 November 2026. About the Global Frontline Leaders Programme The Global Frontline Leaders programme, led by Georgetown University’s Collaborative on Global Children’s Issues, aims to connect people working directly on critical challenges affecting children and families. The 2027 cohort will focus on mental health and psychosocial support, recognising that many children and families experience psychological distress but have limited access to specialist services. Community organisations, schools, faith-based groups, health workers and policymakers often play essential roles in providing support where formal mental health services are limited. The programme seeks to bring together professionals from different countries and sectors to share experiences, examine effective practices and strengthen the systems that support children’s mental health. Rather than focusing exclusively on individual interventions, the cohort will explore how mental health services can be integrated into healthcare, education, social protection and community-based responses. Programme Benefits Selected participants will receive financial support and opportunities to strengthen their professional knowledge, leadership skills and international networks. Key benefits include: $7,500 USD stipend: Paid in two instalments to support participation in the programme. Global professional network: Connect with MHPSS practitioners, researchers and policymakers from different regions. Mentorship and leadership coaching: Receive one-to-one mentoring or leadership support. Monthly virtual workshops: Participate in sessions featuring guest speakers, case studies and peer learning. Expert networking: Engage with Georgetown University faculty and leaders from UN agencies, NGOs and foundations. Research and knowledge sharing: Contribute to collaborative work examining promising frontline approaches. Professional community: Join a lasting network of leaders committed to improving the well-being of children and families. Participants will also explore established frameworks, including the Inter-Agency Standing Committee Guidelines on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Emergency Settings and the World Health Organization’s World Mental Health Report. The programme culminates in collaborative knowledge-sharing activities, including co-authoring a paper highlighting innovative frontline approaches and presenting findings through a webinar hosted by the Collaborative on Global Children’s Issues. Programme Duration and Format The 2027 cohort will run for 10 months, from February to November 2027. Programme details include: Programme: Global Frontline Leaders 2027. Focus: Mental Health and Psychosocial Support for Children and Families. Host institution: Georgetown University. Duration: February–November 2027. Format: Fully virtual. Eligible location: Participants can join from anywhere in the world. Stipend: $7,500 USD, paid in two instalments. Application deadline: 6 November 2026. Orientation: Individual welcome session in January 2027. The virtual format allows participants to take part from their home countries while continuing their professional work. The programme is structured around monthly learning activities, peer exchange, mentoring and collaborative research. Who Can Apply? The programme seeks practitioners, researchers and policymakers who are advancing mental health and psychosocial support for children, families and communities. Potential applicants may include professionals who: Lead community-based or faith-based mental health and psychosocial support initiatives. Work with children and families affected by conflict, displacement or other crises. Conduct research on mental health interventions and their effectiveness. Develop or implement policies affecting access to mental health services. Work across health, education, humanitarian response or social protection systems. Help adapt mental health interventions to local cultures, beliefs and community needs. Applicants should demonstrate practical frontline insight and a commitment to strengthening the systems that sustain care. The programme particularly values community knowledge, cultural and spiritual practices, and the leadership of people with lived experience. However, the supplied announcement does not specify a formal degree requirement, minimum number of years of experience or nationality restrictions. Prospective applicants should consult the official application form and programme information for any additional eligibility conditions. What Participants Will Learn Throughout the programme, participants will examine mental health support in different national and community contexts, compare approaches and explore opportunities for collaboration. Activities will include presenting promising practices from low- and middle-income countries, strengthening evaluation methods, identifying evidence gaps and examining how different sectors can coordinate their responses. Participants will also map the relationships and institutions shaping mental health services, assess how systems respond to emergencies and identify strategies for maintaining care during periods of disruption. The programme is designed to help frontline leaders connect practical experience with broader policy and systems change. How to Apply for the 2027 Global Frontline Leaders Programme Interested candidates should complete the official online application form before the deadline. Application deadline: 6 November 2026. Official application form For further information, contact the Collaborative on Global Children’s Issues at globalchildren@georgetown.edu. LEARN MORE HERE For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) does not take ownership or credit for the opportunities shared on this platform. All opportunities are sourced from official announcements and external sources for informational purposes only. Applicants are encouraged to verify all details, deadlines, and eligibility requirements from the official source before applying. Opportunities may be updated or changed by the providing organisations.