1834 Global Fellowship 2027 for Black Canadians

The 1834 Global Fellowship 2027 is a nine week leadership and professional development programme designed for high potential Black Canadians who are interested in global civic affairs, international development, diplomacy and Canadian foreign policy. The fellowship supports young leaders aged 20 to 30 with practical skills, mentorship, policy research experience and professional networks that can help prepare them for careers connected to global affairs.

The programme is offered by the 1834 Foundation in collaboration with the Centre for Diaspora and Transnational Studies at the University of Toronto. It combines weekly virtual sessions, collaborative research projects and expert mentorship, giving Fellows opportunities to engage with global issues while developing their research, writing, leadership and critical thinking skills.

During the fellowship, participants work in policy teams on research projects connected to real world global issues. Each team is paired with an experienced coach who provides guidance throughout the research process. The programme concludes with the 1834 Global Summit, an in person event bringing together policymakers, analysts, nonprofit leaders and civically engaged Black youth.

About the Fellowship

The 1834 Global Fellowship is structured around three major programme components.

1834 Global Mixers provide weekly facilitated sessions covering global issues and leadership challenges. Fellows engage in discussions and activities designed to strengthen their professional and personal competencies in areas including diplomacy, governance, advocacy and policy development.

1834 Global Research Projects place Fellows into policy teams working on research connected to real world global issues. Teams receive ongoing support from experienced coaches with expertise in global affairs. Fellows use the experience to develop research, communication and strategic thinking skills.

1834 Global Summit serves as the culminating experience of the fellowship. Fellows present their research and engage with policymakers, analysts, nonprofit leaders and other participants interested in civic and international affairs.

The programme is designed to help participants build practical capabilities and professional connections while gaining greater exposure to global policy institutions and international affairs.

Fellowship Benefits

• Nine week professional and leadership development programme

• Weekly facilitated sessions on global issues and leadership

• Expert mentorship and coaching from professionals in global affairs

• Practical experience conducting policy research

• Collaborative work with other emerging Black leaders

• Opportunities to strengthen research and writing skills

• Development of critical thinking and strategic communication skills

• Exposure to diplomacy, governance, advocacy and policy design

• Opportunity to present research at the 1834 Global Summit

• Networking with policymakers, analysts, nonprofit leaders and civically engaged youth

• Professional development relevant to careers in international development, diplomacy and Canadian foreign policy

• Connection to the broader 1834 Foundation community

Programme Areas

The fellowship explores a range of subjects connected to global civic and international affairs, including:

• Diplomacy

• International development

• Canadian foreign policy

• Global governance

• Advocacy

• Policy design

• Global affairs

• Leadership development

• Research and policy analysis

• Strategic communication

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants for the 1834 Global Fellowship 2027 must meet the following requirements:

• Be between 20 and 30 years old

• Identify as Black or of African descent

• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada

• Have an interest in international development, diplomacy or Canadian foreign policy

• Be able to participate in the nine week virtual fellowship

• Commit approximately 3.5 hours per week to the programme

• Be willing and able to travel for the final in person Summit

The programme is intended for aspiring Black leaders who are interested in developing their capacity to contribute to global civic and international affairs.

Required Application Materials

Applicants must submit their application through the secure 1834 Foundation online application system.

• Personal statement of no more than 400 words explaining how the applicant hopes to contribute to and benefit from the fellowship

• Two letters of reference

• One reference from an academic source

• One reference from an employer or community leader

• Current resume

• Contact information

• Education history

• Work experience

• Extracurricular involvement

• Volunteer activities

Applicants are responsible for ensuring that their reference letters are submitted before the deadline. Referees may also send letters directly to the 1834 Foundation at Programs@1834foundation.ca.

How to Apply

1. Review the eligibility requirements for the 1834 Global Fellowship 2027.
2. Prepare a personal statement of no more than 400 words explaining your motivation, expected contribution and what you hope to gain from the fellowship.
3. Prepare an updated resume covering your education, professional experience, extracurricular activities and volunteer involvement.
4. Arrange two reference letters, including one from an academic source and one from an employer or community leader.
5. Submit the complete application through the secure online application system provided by the 1834 Foundation.
6. Ensure that all reference letters are received before the application deadline.
7. Submit your application by October 13, 2026.