FULLY FUNDED FELLOWSHIP FOR YOUNG AFRICAN LEADERS 2027
Call for Applications: Sir Cyril Taylor Young African Leaders Program 2027 (Fully Funded)
Organization: AFS Youth Assembly
Supported By: Sir Cyril Taylor Charitable Foundation
Program Duration: 12 Months
Location: Geneva, Switzerland (for the Youth Assembly & Intensive Workshop)
Application Deadline: November 19, 2026, at 23:59 UTC
About the Program
The Sir Cyril Taylor Young African Leaders Program (Third Edition) is a prestigious 12-month fully funded initiative designed to empower outstanding young changemakers from Sub-Saharan Africa. The program equips participants with comprehensive leadership development, capacity building, mentorship, resources, and seed funding to implement impactful social impact projects that drive sustainable development within their local communities.
The program will select 10 exceptional young African leaders who exhibit strong leadership potential, a deep commitment to community development, and a passion for addressing global challenges through locally driven solutions. Successful applicants will join a dynamic and growing network of young leaders committed to advancing sustainable development across Africa.
Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows will receive comprehensive support throughout the 12-month program, including:
Fully Funded Participation: Complete coverage of core program activities.
Global Competence: Enrollment in the AFS Global Competence Certificate Program to develop advanced intercultural skills and competencies.
Preparatory Training: Specialized workshops ahead of the main assembly.
International Summit: Attendance at the AFS Youth Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, in August 2027, with all travel and accommodation expenses fully covered.
Intensive Workshop: Participation in the Effect+ in the Community intensive workshop in Switzerland.
Professional Growth: Access to top-tier leadership development, mentorship, learning resources, and international networking opportunities.
Seed Funding: Financial backing to design and implement community-based social impact projects.
Post-Assembly Mentorship: Six months of dedicated support and mentorship from the AFS Youth Assembly Impact Network.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for this fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Age: Be between 18 and 35 years old.
Region: Be a citizen/resident from a Sub-Saharan African country.
Leadership Experience: Demonstrate strong leadership qualities or a proven record of leadership experience.
Growth Potential: Show clear potential for personal and professional growth.
Travel Documentation: Possess a valid, unexpired international passport.
Interests: Demonstrate a strong interest in global affairs, sustainable development, and youth issues.
Language Proficiency: Possess intermediate-level proficiency in English.
Availability: Be fully available to attend the AFS Youth Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, in August 2027.
Note: Candidates who are currently leading social impact projects related to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are strongly encouraged to apply.
Community Impact Requirements
Fellows assume a responsibility to drive change upon returning to their home countries. Selected leaders are expected to:
Replicate the Effect+ in the Community workshop for at least 100 young people within their local communities.
Initiate and implement their own community-based social impact projects utilizing the provided seed funding, ensuring alignment with the UN SDGs.
Application Guidelines & Important Notes
Deadline: November 19, 2026, at 23:59 UTC.
Rolling Review & Visa Considerations: Early applications are strongly encouraged. Because international visa processing can take several months, applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Authenticity: The use of artificial intelligence (AI) to write application narratives is highly discouraged. Applicants must ensure their submissions reflect their genuine experiences, leadership journeys, personal motivations, and community impact.
How to Apply
Interested and eligible young leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa should visit the official program page to review full application guidelines and submit their applications.
