The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the African Union Commission (AUC), has launched the 2025 African Young Women Leaders Fellowship Program for talented young African women.
The Fellowship offers a fully sponsored 12-month opportunity, including monthly stipends, travel costs, accommodation, and healthcare. It is designed to empower African youth, especially women, in areas of education, employment, entrepreneurship, and engagement.
Scholarship Summary
- Host: African Union | UNDP
- Category: Internships | Training
- Eligible Countries: African Countries
- Reward: Full Sponsorship | Monthly Living Stipend | Accommodation | Travel Costs | Healthcare
- No IELTS Required
- Deadline: June 1, 2025
Scholarship Details
The African Young Women Leaders Fellowship Programme (AfYWL) is a collaborative initiative under the African Union Commission’s 1 Million Next Level Initiative.
The goal of the programme is to expand opportunities for African youth, with a strong focus on empowering women to contribute meaningfully in development spaces. Through a structured, 12-month assignment, fellows will be placed at UNDP offices either at the Headquarters, Country, or Regional level—excluding hardship locations—where they will actively participate in developmental work and gain real-world experience.
The programme is aligned with UNDP’s Renewed Strategic Offer in Africa and focuses on six key areas: natural resource governance, youth and women’s employment and empowerment, structural economic transformation, sustainable energy, climate change, and peace and security. By participating in this fellowship, young African women will not only be exposed to dynamic work environments but will also receive mentorship, leadership training, and access to a network of professionals working on transformative development goals across the continent.
Eligibility Criteria
To be qualified for this scholarship, applicants must have:
- Completed Master’s degree in a related field
- Maximum of two years of relevant post-degree work experience
- Strong English proficiency; knowledge of an additional AU language is an advantage
- Female and national of an African Union member state
- Maximum age of 30 at the time of application
- Availability for 12 months between 2025 and 2026
- Willingness to relocate for the fellowship
- Demonstrated interest in development, SDGs, and Agenda 2063
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants of this scholarship will receive:
- Monthly stipend for accommodation and living expenses
- Paid leave and a personal learning budget
- Coverage for travel and medical insurance (fellow only)
- Leadership training funded by AUC and UNDP
- Regular mentorship and access to professional development events
Required Duties & Responsibilities
Successful applicants are expected to function in:
- Conducting data analysis and SDG-related research
- Supporting innovation in development impact areas
- Drafting reports and participating in conferences
- Assisting in field missions and project implementation
- Engaging with government and key stakeholders
How to Apply
To apply for the African Young Women Leaders Fellowship Program:
- Visit the official application portal
- Complete and submit all required information
- Upload necessary documents before the deadline
- Kindly wait for feedback
To begin the scholarship application process, click HERE
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