The African Futures Lab AfaRise Fellowship is a prestigious, fully funded leadership development programme for visionary African changemakers aged 18 to 25. This initiative, designed by the African Futures Lab (AfaLab), seeks to identify and nurture young leaders who are actively solving critical challenges within their communities. Over the course of two years, fellows will receive rigorous training, mentorship, funding, and exposure to global networks that will enable them to expand their initiatives and drive systemic change across the continent.
The AfaRise Fellowship is more than a learning opportunity. It is a movement of young Africans committed to reshaping their societies through innovation, resilience, and impact-driven leadership. Selected fellows will join a distinguished cohort of peers and mentors who are equally passionate about the future of Africa.
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Host Organisation:
African Future Lab
Programme Title:
Afarise Fellowship
Fellowship Duration:
Two years (2025 to 2027)
Delivery Mode:
Hybrid (online sessions, with occasional in-person events depending on location and resources)
Fellowship Benefits
- Comprehensive leadership training across various domains, including social entrepreneurship, policy, and advocacy
- Access to a global network of experts, mentors, and fellow changemakers
- Personal development support, including mental health and coaching sessions
- Seed funding for approved community projects or ventures
- Media exposure and storytelling opportunities to amplify fellowsโ impact
- Certificate of completion and inclusion in the Afarise Fellows alumni community
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a citizen and resident of an African country
- Aged between 18 and 25 years at the time of application
- Founder or co-founder of a community project, social enterprise, or impactful initiative
- Able to commit to the full duration of the fellowship from 2025 to 2027
- Demonstrated leadership potential, creativity, and a strong sense of purpose
- Access to a stable internet connection for virtual sessions
- Proficient in English (the programme will be delivered in English)
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the African Future Lab AfaRise Fellowship is 31 July 2025.
Required Documents
- Completed application form
- A one-minute video introducing yourself and your initiative
- Detailed description of your community project or idea
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Letter of reference from a mentor, community leader, or colleague
How to Apply for the AfaRise Fellowship
- Visit the official website here.
- Read the eligibility guidelines and programme expectations carefully
- Complete and submit the online application form
- Upload all required materials before the deadline
- Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for interviews or additional screening
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Why Choose This Fellowship?
- Gain tools to scale your community impact effectively
- Learn directly from African leaders, innovators, and changemakers
- Access mentorship and funding opportunities to support your work
- Join a dynamic community of like-minded youth across Africa
- Position yourself for long-term success in leadership, advocacy, or entrepreneurship