The Mandela Washington Fellowship program is to provide Young African Leaders, from sub-Saharan Africa, under the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) with access to high-quality academic programs, professional development, and cultural experience in the United States, thereby equipping participants with the skills and networks to drive positive change in their communities.
What Employers Are Offering
- ✔ Employer-provided health & medical insurance
- ✔ Visa sponsorship & legal work authorization
- ✔ Relocation assistance & settlement support
- ✔ Long-term employment & benefit coverage
- ✔ Permanent residency pathways (eligible roles)
In enhancing the quality of fellowship, fellows will continue to engage in academic coursework, leadership training, and networking with American and African leaders, enhancing their credentials and practical skills. The program reflects the United States government’s commitment to investing in Africa’s future by empowering emerging leaders.
Insurance & Worker Protection Requirements
Before visa approval, many employer-sponsored programs require proof of medical coverage, workplace protection, and relocation compliance. Select the area you want to review:
How Does the Fellowship Work?
The Mandela Washington Fellowship works by providing participants with a comprehensive, fully funded six-week program research on leadership and academics at a university in the United States. This initiative calls on rigorous leadership training across three distinct areas, including;
- Business and Entrepreneurship
- Civic Leadership
- Public Management
What Does the Program Covers?
- Eligible candidates for this scholarship enjoy Comprehensive Funding covering Round-trip airfare to the United States, Domestic travel within the United States, Tuition and associated fees at the designated United States University, Living costs, housing and meals, and health insurance throughout the fellowship period.
- With the Mandella Fellowship program in the United States, eligible participants also enjoy full six-week Academic and Leadership training focusing on enhancing critical thinking skills, team leadership, problem-solving and professional networking. This is achieved via seminars, leadership workshops, mentoring sessions, site visits, and community service activities to bolster leadership skills.
- Participants of the Mandela Washington Fellowship enjoy a multi-day Summit at Wahington, D.C. which hosts over 700 fellows, Representatives from the United States Government, and leaders from various sectors for discussions, networking, and skill enhancement.
- An Optional Professional Development Experience (PDE) is also given to a selected number of fellows which permits them to remain in the United States for an additional six weeks to acquire practical experience with United States organizations in their respective fields.
- United States professionals who interact with the fellows during the program may qualify for travel to Africa to collaborate on projects that the fellows are undertaking in their home countries.
- Upon completion of the fellowship, alumni are granted access to ongoing support through the YALI Network, which provides:
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- Continued professional development and mentorship.
- Opportunities for grants and funding for projects.
- Networking possibilities with fellow alumni and United States professionals.
- Invitation to participate in upcoming YALI conferences and events.
Who is Eligible for The Mandela Fellowship Program
You must meet the following criteria to qualify for the Mandela Washington Fellowship Program, applicants must fulfill the following requirements:
