Harare, August 20, 2021: The application process for the 2022 Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) – Mandela Washington Fellowship (MWF) has opened for young African leaders between the ages of 25 and 35. We seek to identify and select 42 eligible Zimbabweans who have a demonstrated record of leadership and accomplishment in business or civic engagement. Visit https://mwfellows.info/apply to begin the application process. This extensive application requires your attention, don’t wait until the September 15 deadline.
The U.S. Embassy has proudly facilitated the participation of 240 Zimbabweans in the YALI-MWF program since 2014.. A U.S. government’s flagship program, YALI-MWF embodies America’s commitment to invest in Africa’s vibrant future. Through this initiative, young African leaders acquire the skills and connections they need to accelerate their career trajectories and contribute more robustly to strengthening democratic institutions, spur economic growth, and enhance peace and security across Africa.
Upon completion, Fellows continue to build the skills they developed during Leadership Institutes through support from the U.S. Embassy and the YALI Network. Mandela Washington Fellows will have access to ongoing professional development opportunities, mentorship, networking, and training as well as the opportunity to compete for seed funding to support their ideas, businesses, and organizations.
The U.S. government’s Department of State funds the Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders, which IREX administers.