Deadline: November 30, 2025
Are you a woman leader passionate about transforming global health systems? The Harvard LEAD Fellowship for Promoting Women in Global Health 2026-2027 is now open for applications! This prestigious programme aims to empower outstanding women from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) to strengthen their leadership skills, mentor others, and contribute meaningfully to the global health landscape.
Organised by the Harvard Global Health Institute in collaboration with the Department of Global Health and Population at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, this fellowship is an incredible opportunity to grow professionally while making a lasting impact.
About the Harvard LEAD Fellowship
The Harvard LEAD Fellowship for Promoting Women in Global Health 2026-2027 is designed to equip women leaders in global health with advanced leadership skills, mentorship opportunities, and an extensive professional network. Fellows will participate in executive training, coaching, and in-person learning at Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.
Fellowship Duration
- Total duration: 1 year
- In-person residency: 6 weeks in Cambridge, MA, scheduled for April 2027.
Application Deadline
- 30 November 2025
Fellowship Benefits and Opportunities
Selected fellows will receive tailored leadership development and access to Harvard’s world-class resources. Key components of the programme include:
- Executive Leadership Training:
- One-on-one coaching sessions with executive coaches
- Leadership Versatility Index (360° feedback) and personal style assessments
- Mentorship:
- Structured mentorship from Harvard faculty
- Monthly mentorship meetings throughout the fellowship year
- Speaking & Networking Opportunities:
- Opportunities to present at global health forums
- Access to Harvard’s extensive global network
- Executive Education Courses:
- Participation in courses such as “Women and Power,” leadership strategies, and more
- Private Leadership Masterclasses:
- Sessions on negotiation, communication, crisis management, and navigating bias
This comprehensive curriculum is carefully curated to strengthen fellows’ leadership capacity and empower them to mentor other emerging women leaders in global health.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be from a low- or middle-income country
- Hold at least a Master’s degree in a relevant field
- Have a minimum of 10 years’ full-time professional experience in global health (student work does not count)
- Have support from their employer and a senior “champion” within their organisation
- Be able to take leave for the six-week residency period in Cambridge, MA
- Be eligible for a J-1 visa to travel to the United States
- Have not participated in a full-time fellowship (4+ months) in the two years before arrival at Harvard
Application Requirements
A complete application includes the following components:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) / Resume
- Letter of Intent (max 1.5 pages) detailing your global health journey and how the fellowship will impact your organisation and country
- Four short essays (maximum 2000 characters each):
- Career development and training activities
- Project plan
- Mentorship strategy for others
- Impact on organisation, field, and country
- Letter of Institutional Commitment confirming employer support and leave of absence for the residency period
- Letter of Mentor Commitment from a senior professional who will champion your leadership journey
- Two additional reference letters from different referees, including one from your most recent professional engagement
Application Tips for a Strong Submission
This is a competitive fellowship, so it is important to prepare your application carefully:
- Make your project plan clear and feasible. Show how it aligns with broader global health priorities in your country or region.
- Highlight leadership achievements. Provide concrete examples from your professional journey.
- Secure employer support early. Institutional backing is essential for a successful application.
- Be specific about your mentorship strategy. Vague statements may weaken your application.
- Check visa requirements in advance. Although the fellowship provides travel and accommodation, visa processing is your responsibility.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 30 November 2025
- In-Person Residency: April 2027 (6 weeks)
- Fellowship Duration: 1 year
Conclusion
The Harvard LEAD Fellowship for Promoting Women in Global Health 2026-2027 is more than just a leadership programme — it is a platform for women to amplify their voices, lead transformative health initiatives, and shape the future of global health. If you are ready to take the next big step in your career, this is your opportunity.
👉 Click here to Apply
👉 Read more about the programme
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