The 2026 MILEAD Fellows Program is now accepting applications from outstanding young African women leaders. The deadline to apply is Friday, March 20, 2026. This prestigious fellowship aims to identify, nurture, and empower the next generation of African female leaders. For over a decade, MILEAD Fellows have driven transformative change, breaking barriers and challenging systems that discriminate against women and girls.
The program offers a unique blend of training, mentoring, and experiential learning. Fellows will participate in a three-week residential Summer Institute in Ghana and lead a community change project. If you are a passionate young woman ready to make a positive impact, this is your chance to join a powerful network of leaders across Africa.
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Key Details:
Application Deadline: March 20, 2026
Eligible Countries: African countries
Program Duration: One year (includes a three-week residential Summer Institute)
Program Location: Ghana (Summer Institute); community-based projects across Africa
Funding/Benefits: World-class leadership training, mentoring, support for community projects, lifelong network
Award Provider: Moremi Initiative
About this MILEADÂ Program
The MILEAD Fellows Program is a bold initiative focused on the long-term leadership development of promising young African women. The program combines intensive training, mentoring, and hands-on experience. Fellows benefit from a supportive ecosystem, access to influential African leaders, and lifelong solidarity through the MILEAD Network. Each year, 25 outstanding young women are selected to participate.
The program features a three-phase structure: education and training, mentoring and networking, and resource mobilization. The highlight is the three-week residential Summer Institute in Ghana, which offers academic lectures, skills training, field trips, and summits. Fellows also design and implement a community change (MiCHANGE) project that addresses critical issues in their communities.
Eligibility Criteria
- Young women aged 19-25 from African countries
- Demonstrated leadership potential in their community, organization, or profession
- Passionate about creating positive change for women and girls in Africa
- Available for the three-week Summer Institute in Ghana
- Can be full-time students or professionals (except during the Summer Institute)
What Fellows Receive: Leadership training, mentoring, support for community projects, access to a pan-African network
Program Components: Three-week residential institute, yearlong leadership development, MiCHANGE community project, mentoring, networking
How to Apply
- Download the full 2026 Application Package from the official website.
- Prepare your application form, CV, and two recommendation letters.
- Submit all documents via email as instructed in the application guidelines.
- Review all requirements carefully before submitting your application.
For more information and to access the application package, visit the official fellowship page.
👉 Visit the official fellowship page for details
