The Dalai Lama Fellows (DLF) program is now accepting applications for its 2026 Fellowship cohort, inviting 15 to 20 emerging leaders from across the globe who are dedicated to making meaningful change in their communities. With a focus on compassionate leadership, ethical innovation, and contemplative practice, the Fellowship equips young changemakers to develop the inner and outer tools necessary to build a more just, inclusive, and compassionate world. Key Application Dates Application Opens: October 1, 2025 Application Deadline: November 12, 2025 (by 22:00 UTC) Fellows Notified: February 2026 Virtual Onboarding: March 2026 Fellowship Year Begins: April 2026 Contemplative Leadership Assembly: May 2026 (Location TBD; all travel, lodging, and meals covered) Fellowship Year Concludes: March 2027, after which Fellows join the LifeLong Fellows global community Who Should Apply The Dalai Lama Fellows program is designed for young leaders aged 20 to 36 who are committed to advancing social justice, equity, sustainability, and human flourishing through community-based projects. Applicants should already be working on—or have a clearly defined plan for—a social change initiative and be prepared to sustain their engagement throughout the Fellowship year. The ideal candidate demonstrates: A deep understanding of the community they serve and the systemic challenges they are addressing At least one year of experience working with that community or on the issue Strong English communication skills A willingness to engage in contemplative practices, including self-reflection, mindfulness, and ethical leadership A commitment to dedicating around 12 hours per month to Fellowship activities (not including time spent on their own projects) Availability to attend the Contemplative Leadership Assembly in May 2026 What the Fellowship Offers The Dalai Lama Fellowship is not just a funding opportunity—it is a year-long immersive experience designed to transform how emerging leaders work toward social change. Fellows receive: Individual coaching with experienced mentors Access to an online learning platform with curriculum focused on inner development, systems thinking, and leadership Participation in monthly group learning calls An in-person 5-day leadership assembly (with all costs covered) Membership in the LifeLong Fellows network after the fellowship year—an ongoing global community of practice and support This unique combination of practical guidance, inner cultivation, and community engagement empowers Fellows to lead with resilience, compassion, and integrity. Application Process The 2026 Fellowship application consists of five primary components: Applicant Background and OverviewBasic information about you and your current or planned project. Short Essay QuestionsThese questions assess your leadership journey, understanding of the issues, commitment to ethical action, and alignment with the DLF values. Video SubmissionApplicants are asked to submit a short video introducing themselves and their work. Resume or CVA summary of your educational background, professional experiences, and any relevant community or leadership activities. Letter of RecommendationFrom someone who can speak to your leadership capacity, commitment to service, or experience working in the community. All application materials must be submitted online by 22:00 UTC on November 12, 2025. Early submissions are encouraged, as only a small number of highly competitive applicants are selected each year. About Dalai Lama Fellows Founded with the vision and support of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, the Fellowship blends compassion-based ethics, contemplative practices, and community action. Since its inception, Dalai Lama Fellows has supported emerging leaders from more than 40 countries who are advancing change in areas such as education, mental health, environmental sustainability, gender equity, refugee rights, and more. Fellows come from all walks of life but share a common commitment: to lead from the inside out—integrating self-awareness with action and cultivating presence and purpose in their leadership journey. Apply Now If you are an emerging changemaker with a bold vision and a deep commitment to inner growth and community transformation, the Dalai Lama Fellowship 2026 could be a powerful next step in your leadership journey. Apply Here Questions? Visit the Dalai Lama Fellows website for FAQs and more information. Application Deadline: November 12, 2025 at 22:00 UTC Empowered by mindfulness. Grounded in compassion. Connected in community.This is not just a fellowship it’s a movement. Join the next generation of contemplative changemakers. 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 hosting organization. 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