The Emerging Leaders Foundation (ELF) Africa iLead Fellowship Program 2026 for young East Africans.

Application Deadline: 31 August 2026 . Applications are now open for the 2026 iLead Fellowship Program. The five-month fellowship is designed for young leaders aged 18 to 25 who are committed to personal development, career growth, leadership and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Young people from Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda are invited to apply. The programme will run from August to December 2026 and will combine leadership training, mentorship, coaching and practical experiences to help participants strengthen their capacity to contribute meaningfully to their communities and workplaces. The iLEAD Fellowship is a five-month leadership development programme grounded in values-based leadership . The programme seeks to equip young people with practical skills and experiences that can support their personal, professional and civic development. Through the fellowship, participants will engage in structured training and mentorship designed to help them develop their leadership potential while becoming more conscious of their role in addressing challenges affecting their communities. The programme also places emphasis on life skills, civic consciousness and workplace readiness , giving Fellows an opportunity to develop competencies that extend beyond traditional academic learning. Requirements The fellowship is open to young people aged 18–25 from eight East African countries. Eligible applicants must be from: Burundi Democratic Republic of Congo Kenya Rwanda Somalia South Sudan Tanzania Uganda Applicants can come from different educational and community backgrounds. The programme welcomes university students, college students, TVET students and community leaders who demonstrate a commitment to personal, career and leadership growth. Applicants should also have an interest in contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals . Program Duration The programme will run from August to December 2026 and includes seven modules delivered through residential and virtual sessions. Virtual sessions will take place on Wednesdays from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. EAT. Applicants must have access to a suitable digital device and reliable internet. Attendance at all training, mentorship and capstone project activities is mandatory. For More Information: Visit the Official Webpage of the iLead Fellowship Program