Deadline: July 13, 2025
Are you a young African architect or designer passionate about using design as a tool for social justice, climate sustainability, and innovation? The MASS African Design Centre Fellowship 2025 is now accepting applications for its transformative, fully funded design residency in Kigali, Rwanda. This prestigious opportunity supports emerging African talent in the built environment with hands-on experience, mentorship, and global visibility.
About the MASS African Design Centre Fellowship 2025
The MASS African Design Centre Fellowship 2025 is a 12-month full-time, in-person residency hosted in Kigali, Rwanda, followed by a one-year period of remote mentorship. This program is an initiative of the African Design Centre (ADC), part of MASS Design Group, aimed at equipping a new generation of African designers to lead socially impactful architecture and urban development projects.
The fellowship empowers participants to deeply explore African architectural traditions and leverage design to solve urgent challenges in health, equity, and sustainability.
Fellowship Duration and Structure
- Year 1 (September 2025 – August 2026): On-site residency in Kigali, Rwanda, where fellows engage in research, co-design with communities, and implement design-build projects.
- Year 2 (September 2026 – August 2027): Remote mentorship phase to help fellows continue their work in their home countries with technical support, networking, and advisory services.
Focus Areas
Fellows will work across three core themes:
- Maternal & Newborn Health – Designing facilities that promote dignity and safety in maternal care.
- Expanding Opportunities – Promoting innovation, skill-building, and local economic growth through design.
- Building a Climate‑Positive Future – Creating architecture that fosters ecological balance and addresses climate change at the community level.
Eligibility Criteria
The fellowship is open to:
- African nationals aged 35 or under
- Holders of a degree in architecture, urban planning, landscape design, engineering, or a related field in the built environment
- Candidates with a strong commitment to social justice, sustainability, and community-centered design
Fellowship Benefits
- Fully paid relocation to Kigali for the first year
- Hands-on experience designing and implementing community-led projects
- In-depth research into indigenous, vernacular, and sustainable African design traditions
- Publications and global exposure of your work
- Ongoing mentorship and optional funding opportunities in the second year
Application Process
The MASS African Design Centre Fellowship 2025 uses a competitive three-stage selection process:
- Initial Application: Submit your CV, portfolio, contact information for two references, and a short personal statement explaining your alignment with the fellowship’s goals.
- Shortlisting: Submit in-depth essays and confirm availability for the full duration.
- Final Interview: Shortlisted candidates will undergo virtual interviews with the selection team.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: July 13, 2025
- Program Start: September 2025
- Remote Mentorship Phase: September 2026 – August 2027
How to Apply
Interested applicants can begin their application process through the official fellowship portal:
👉 Read more about the programme
Final Thoughts
The MASS African Design Centre Fellowship 2025 is more than just a residency—it’s a launchpad for young African innovators to shape the future of design on the continent. By engaging deeply with local cultures, challenges, and opportunities, fellows emerge as transformative leaders with global relevance and local impact.
For proposal drafting, refining, and review, contact grantsdatabase.org.
