Next Gen Initiative 2026 Fellowship for Young African Women

Applications are now open for the Next Gen Initiative 2026, a flagship leadership fellowship established by the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Presidential Center for Women and Development (EJS Center). The programme is designed to prepare a new generation of young African women for leadership roles in public service, governance, policy, and national development through a comprehensive 12-month fellowship.

The fellowship combines leadership development, mentorship, immersive learning experiences, and hands-on public leadership placements alongside accomplished Amujae Leaders. Participants will gain practical experience, strengthen their leadership capabilities, expand their professional networks, and develop the skills needed to influence positive change across Africa.

The initiative reflects the EJS Center's commitment to increasing women's representation in public leadership by investing in emerging leaders who demonstrate integrity, resilience, and a strong commitment to serving their communities.

About the Fellowship

The Next Gen Initiative is the flagship emerging leaders programme of the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Presidential Center for Women and Development. Named after Africa's first democratically elected female president, the Centre works to strengthen women's leadership across the continent through research, advocacy, leadership development, and strategic partnerships.

The fellowship is specifically designed for young women who aspire to careers in public leadership and who have already demonstrated commitment through their academic achievements, professional experience, and community engagement.

Throughout the 12-month programme, fellows will participate in structured leadership training, receive mentorship from experienced African women leaders, engage in immersive learning opportunities, and gain practical exposure through public leadership placements. They will also join a growing network of women leaders committed to advancing good governance, inclusive development, and social transformation across Africa.

By combining theoretical learning with practical leadership experience, the programme seeks to prepare participants to assume greater leadership responsibilities within government, civil society, public institutions, and development organizations.

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows will receive numerous benefits throughout the programme, including:

• A monthly stipend throughout the 12-month fellowship.
• Comprehensive leadership development training.
• One-on-one mentorship from experienced women leaders.
• Immersive learning experiences.
• Hands-on public leadership placements alongside Amujae Leaders.
• Professional networking opportunities across Africa.
• Exposure to experienced policymakers and public leaders.
• Practical experience in governance and public service.
• Opportunities to strengthen leadership and communication skills.
• Membership in a growing network of emerging African women leaders.

Programme Focus Areas

The fellowship welcomes applicants with professional experience or demonstrated interest in areas including:

• Public Policy.
• Governance.
• Law.
• Gender Equality.
• Public Health.
• International Development.
• Public Administration.
• Civic Leadership.
• Social Impact.
• Community Development.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Next Gen Initiative 2026, applicants must:

• Be a citizen of Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Nigeria, or Sierra Leone.
• Be between 25 and 35 years old as of October 1, 2026.
• Hold an undergraduate degree.
• Have at least three years of relevant and consistent professional experience.
• Have experience in public policy, governance, law, development, gender, health, or a related field.
• Demonstrate leadership potential.
• Demonstrate integrity and strong ethical values.
• Show resilience, curiosity, and willingness to learn.
• Demonstrate commitment to public service.
• Show a clear vision for contributing to positive change within their country and across Africa.

Eligible Countries

Applications are currently accepted only from citizens of the following countries:

• Kenya
• Lesotho
• Liberia
• Nigeria
• Sierra Leone

Required Application Materials

Applicants should prepare:

• Completed online application form.
• Academic qualification details.
• Professional experience information.
• Personal profile.
• Leadership experience.
• Responses demonstrating commitment to public service.
• Additional information requested during the application process.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be assessed based on several factors, including:

• Leadership potential.
• Integrity and ethical conduct.
• Professional experience.
• Academic background.
• Commitment to public service.
• Interest in governance and leadership.
• Ability to contribute to positive social change.
• Motivation to strengthen women's leadership across Africa.

How to Apply

To apply for the Next Gen Initiative 2026:

1. Visit the official application portal of the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Presidential Center.
2. Carefully review the eligibility requirements.
3. Complete the online application form.
4. Provide accurate academic and professional information.
5. Demonstrate your leadership experience and commitment to public service.
6. Submit your application before the closing date.

Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues and to ensure all required information is included.