Yale Emerging Climate Leaders Fellowship 2026
Are you an emerging leader from the Global South working at the intersection of climate action, clean energy, and policy? The Yale Emerging Climate Leaders Fellowship 2026 offers an extraordinary, fully funded opportunity to expand your impact, grow your leadership, and connect with a global network of changemakers. This competitive five-month fellowship is designed for mid-career professionals actively shaping climate and energy futures in their communities.
Organised by the International Leadership Center at the Yale Jackson School of Global Affairs, this fellowship is tailored specifically for individuals from the Global South, including Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean. It seeks to amplify the voices and leadership of regions most affected by climate change, yet often underrepresented in global policy discussions.
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Programme Timeline and Structure
- Duration: February to June 2026
- Orientation Week (In-person): 16–20 February 2026 at Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Virtual Sessions: March to June 2026 – includes interactive seminars, group projects, and mentorship
- Final Conclave (In-person): 15–19 June 2026 in Paris, France
The program is carefully structured to balance deep learning with global exposure. Fellows will engage in weekly virtual discussions with leading climate experts, collaborate on policy proposals, and receive personalised mentorship. The final Paris convening allows participants to present their solutions to international stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and think tanks.
Who Should Apply for the Yale Emerging Climate Leaders Fellowship
The fellowship is open to professionals who meet the following criteria:
- Mid-career professionals with 5–10 years of relevant experience
- Demonstrated impact in climate, clean energy, public policy, journalism, environmental research, finance, or related fields
- Citizens and current residents of the Global South
- Proficient in English and available to attend both in-person sessions in the US and France
- A strong track record of leadership, innovation, and commitment to climate solutions
Benefits of the Fellowship
- Full funding for travel, accommodation, and participation costs
- Mentorship from Yale faculty and global experts in climate leadership
- Access to an exclusive, global network of alumni, decision-makers, and funders
- Skill-building in climate diplomacy, evidence-based policymaking, and advocacy
How to Apply for the Yale Emerging Climate Leaders Fellowship
Applications are currently open and will close on 1 August 2025. Interested applicants must submit a compelling application that showcases their professional achievements, leadership capacity, and vision for climate impact.
This is a platform to influence global climate discourse and drive change in the communities that need it most.
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