The Emerging Leaders Foundation-Africa (ELF-Africa) has opened applications for iLEAD Fellowship Cohort 13, a leadership development and mentorship opportunity for young people across East Africa. The five-month fellowship is designed for young leaders aged 18 to 25 who are committed to personal development, career growth, leadership and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Young people from Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda are invited to apply. The programme will run from August to December 2026 and will combine leadership training, mentorship, coaching and practical experiences to help participants strengthen their capacity to contribute meaningfully to their communities and workplaces. What Is the iLEAD Fellowship? The iLEAD Fellowship is a five-month leadership development programme grounded in values-based leadership. The programme seeks to equip young people with practical skills and experiences that can support their personal, professional and civic development. Through the fellowship, participants will engage in structured training and mentorship designed to help them develop their leadership potential while becoming more conscious of their role in addressing challenges affecting their communities. The programme also places emphasis on life skills, civic consciousness and workplace readiness, giving Fellows an opportunity to develop competencies that extend beyond traditional academic learning. Who Can Apply? The fellowship is open to young people aged 18–25 from eight East African countries. Eligible applicants must be from: Burundi Democratic Republic of Congo Kenya Rwanda Somalia South Sudan Tanzania Uganda Applicants can come from different educational and community backgrounds. The programme welcomes university students, college students, TVET students and community leaders who demonstrate a commitment to personal, career and leadership growth. Applicants should also have an interest in contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. Five-Month Leadership Development Programme The iLEAD Fellowship will take place over a period of five months, running from August through December 2026. During this period, Fellows will participate in a structured programme consisting of seven modules. The modules will be delivered through a combination of residential and virtual sessions, allowing participants to benefit from both in-person engagement and online learning. The programme’s blended format is intended to provide Fellows with opportunities to interact with trainers, mentors and fellow participants while also developing their ability to participate effectively in digital environments. Training, Mentorship and Coaching A central component of the iLEAD Fellowship is its combination of training, mentorship and coaching. Participants will receive guidance intended to support their development as values-driven young leaders. Mentorship can also provide Fellows with an opportunity to learn from experienced individuals, gain perspectives on career development and strengthen their understanding of leadership in practical settings. The fellowship’s emphasis on coaching further supports participants as they identify areas for personal and professional growth. Building Life and Workplace Skills The programme is designed to develop skills that can be valuable both in professional environments and in community leadership. Fellows will have opportunities to strengthen their life skills and workplace readiness, helping them prepare for future employment, entrepreneurship, civic engagement and leadership responsibilities. The programme also promotes civic consciousness, encouraging young people to understand their responsibilities and potential contributions as members of their communities. For students and emerging community leaders, these experiences can complement formal education by providing practical leadership development. Practical Experience and Capstone Activities The iLEAD Fellowship goes beyond classroom-based training by incorporating practical experience. Participants will be expected to take part in capstone project activities as part of the fellowship. These activities provide an opportunity for Fellows to apply concepts and skills developed during the programme to practical challenges. Participation in the capstone component is mandatory, meaning applicants should be prepared to commit sufficient time and effort throughout the fellowship. Virtual Sessions and Technology Requirements The fellowship includes regular virtual learning sessions. Virtual sessions will take place on Wednesdays from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. East Africa Time (EAT). Applicants should therefore ensure that they can consistently participate in these scheduled sessions. Participants must have access to a suitable digital device and reliable internet connection to take part in the virtual component of the programme. Because attendance is required throughout the fellowship, prospective applicants should consider their availability and technological access before submitting an application. Attendance and Commitment Requirements Applicants should be aware that the iLEAD Fellowship requires a significant commitment. Attendance at all training, mentorship and capstone project activities is mandatory. This requirement means that successful applicants are expected to remain actively engaged throughout the five-month programme. Young people who are selected should be prepared to participate in both residential and virtual activities and complete the required fellowship components. Applicants should therefore ensure that they can balance the fellowship with their studies, employment, community responsibilities or other commitments. Why Young Leaders Should Consider Applying The iLEAD Fellowship provides an opportunity for young people in East Africa to develop leadership capabilities while connecting with other emerging leaders from across the region. The combination of values-based leadership, mentorship, coaching and practical experience can help participants develop a stronger understanding of their personal leadership strengths and areas for growth. The programme’s focus on workplace readiness and civic consciousness may also benefit young people preparing for future careers or seeking to increase their contribution to their communities. Participation in a regional fellowship can further expose young leaders to different perspectives and experiences from neighbouring countries. Application Deadline Applications for iLEAD Fellowship Cohort 13 must be submitted by 31 August 2026. Interested applicants are encouraged to complete their applications before the deadline and ensure that they meet the age, nationality and participation requirements. Applicants should also confirm that they have access to the technology required for virtual sessions and can commit to attending the programme’s mandatory activities. How to Get Assistance With the Application Applicants who require assistance with their application can contact the Emerging Leaders Foundation-Africa at: Email: ileadfellowship@elfafrica.org Prospective applicants should use the official application process and provide accurate information when completing their forms. Final Takeaway The iLEAD Fellowship Cohort 13 offers young people aged 18–25 from Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda an opportunity to strengthen their leadership, career and personal development skills. The five-month programme will run from August to December 2026, featuring seven modules delivered through residential and virtual sessions. With training, mentorship, coaching and practical experience at its core, the fellowship is designed to help participants develop life skills, civic consciousness and workplace readiness while supporting their commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals. Eligible young leaders who can commit to the programme should submit their applications by 31 August 2026. APPLY FOR THE iLEAD FELLOWSHIP COHORT 13 For more opportunities for young people, scholarships, fellowships, jobs and internships, follow Global South Opportunities on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organisation offering the iLEAD Fellowship. Applicants should verify all eligibility requirements, application instructions, programme schedules and deadlines directly with the Emerging Leaders Foundation-Africa before applying. Information may change, and applicants are responsible for confirming the latest official details. JOIN GSO WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW