Applications open for iLEAD Fellowship Program Cohort 13

Deadline: 30-Sep-2026

The iLEAD Fellowship Program 2026 is a five-month leadership development program for young people aged 18–25 from eight African countries. The fellowship combines training, mentorship, coaching, experiential learning, and a capstone project to help emerging leaders develop the skills and networks needed to create positive community impact. The iLEAD Fellowship Cohort 13 will run from August to December 2026 and is organized by the Emerging Leaders Foundation-Africa (ELF-Africa). The program is open to university, college, and TVET students, as well as community leaders committed to leadership development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). What Is the iLEAD Fellowship Program? The iLEAD Fellowship is a leadership development initiative designed to equip young African leaders with practical skills for personal growth, career development, civic participation, and community leadership. The fellowship is intended for emerging leaders who want to strengthen their ability to identify community challenges and contribute to practical solutions. iLEAD Fellowship 2026 at a Glance

Program: iLEAD Fellowship Program – Cohort 13

Organizer: Emerging Leaders Foundation-Africa

Duration: Five months

Program period: August–December 2026

Age requirement: 18–25 years

Eligible countries: Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda

Program format: Residential and virtual sessions

Virtual sessions: Every Wednesday, 4:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. EAT

Training: Seven modules

Capstone: Required

Internet requirement: Reliable internet connection

Young people play an important role in addressing social, economic, environmental, and community challenges across Africa. However, emerging leaders often need additional opportunities to develop leadership skills, professional networks, civic knowledge, and practical experience. The iLEAD Fellowship addresses these needs by combining structured learning with practical leadership experience.

The program can help participants:

Build confidence as emerging leaders. Develop stronger communication and decision-making skills. Build knowledge related to the Sustainable Development Goals. Gain experience through a capstone project. Who Is Eligible for the iLEAD Fellowship? Applicants must meet the program’s age, nationality, participation, and technology requirements. Eligible applicants include young people who: Are 18 to 25 years old. Are citizens or residents from Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, or Uganda, as applicable to the program’s eligibility requirements. Are university, college, or TVET students, or are community leaders. Demonstrate an interest in personal, professional, and leadership development. Are committed to contributing positively to their communities. Have an interest in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Young professionals seeking stronger leadership capabilities. Applicants should be prepared to actively participate rather than simply attend training sessions. What Does the iLEAD Fellowship Include? The five-month fellowship combines several complementary learning approaches. Leadership Development Participants develop practical leadership capabilities, including skills related to responsible decision-making, communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and personal development. Mentorship Fellows receive opportunities to learn from mentors and gain guidance related to personal and professional growth. Coaching Coaching supports participants in translating leadership concepts into practical development goals and actions. Experiential Learning The fellowship emphasizes learning through practical experiences rather than classroom-based theory alone. Civic Consciousness Participants are encouraged to understand their responsibilities as citizens and emerging community leaders and to engage constructively with issues affecting their communities. Workplace Readiness The program helps young people develop capabilities that can support their transition into employment and professional environments. Capstone Project The capstone component provides an opportunity for Fellows to apply their learning to a practical initiative or community-focused activity. Program Structure and Schedule The iLEAD Fellowship Cohort 13 will run for approximately five months from August through December 2026. The program consists of seven learning modules delivered through a combination of residential and virtual activities.

Virtual sessions are scheduled for:

Day: Wednesday

Time: 4:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.

Time zone: East Africa Time (EAT)

Participants should therefore ensure that they can consistently attend the scheduled online sessions. The fellowship also includes residential components and capstone activities. Participants should review the official application information carefully for specific arrangements, dates, locations, and participation requirements. What Is Expected From Fellows?

Participation requires a significant commitment throughout the fellowship

Selected Fellows are expected to:

Attend the required training sessions.

Participate actively in mentorship and coaching

Complete assigned learning activities.

Participate in residential and virtual components

Engage with other Fellows and facilitators. Develop and complete the required capstone project. Apply leadership lessons to practical community or professional contexts. Maintain reliable access to the digital platforms used for the program. Attendance at training, mentorship, and capstone activities is mandatory. Technology Requirements Because the fellowship includes virtual learning, applicants need access to appropriate technology.

Participants should have

A suitable computer, tablet, or other compatible digital device. Reliable internet connectivity. A suitable environment for participating in online sessions. The ability to attend weekly Wednesday sessions online. Applica