DEadline: December 31, 2025
The Awaji Youth Federation Fellowship for Emerging Leaders 2026 is now open to applications from talented and motivated young professionals across the world. This highly competitive, immersive fellowship offers a unique opportunity to live, work, and lead on Awaji Island in Japan while contributing to meaningful community-based projects and regional development initiatives.
The Awaji Youth Federation Fellowship for Emerging Leaders 2026 is designed to nurture globally minded leaders with the skills, experience, and values needed to address real-world societal challenges through innovation, collaboration, and service.
About the Fellowship
The Awaji Youth Federation (AYF) Fellowship is a nine-month, live-in leadership and professional development programme hosted on Awaji Island, located in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. The programme brings together emerging leaders from diverse cultural, academic, and professional backgrounds to work closely with local communities, organisations, and workplaces.
Fellows are fully immersed in a rural Japanese setting, where they gain hands-on experience in community engagement, project implementation, and leadership development. The fellowship emphasises practical learning, cross-cultural collaboration, and long-term impact.
Fellowship Location
- Awaji Island, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan
Awaji Island is known for its rich natural resources, strong community ties, and ongoing regional revitalisation efforts. The island provides an ideal environment for experiential learning, innovation, and social contribution.
Duration and Commitment
- Duration: 9 months
- Format: Full-time, live-in residency
Fellows are expected to commit fully to the programme for the entire duration and actively participate in all fellowship activities, including project work, mentoring sessions, and community events.
Fellowship Structure
The programme is built around three integrated components that support both personal and professional growth:
1. Self-Development and Mentoring
Fellows receive continuous guidance and mentorship focused on leadership development, self-awareness, discipline, and values-driven service.
2. Project Ideation and Execution
Participants design and implement practical projects that address local and global challenges, working closely with community stakeholders and partner organisations.
3. Event Creation and Implementation
Fellows collaborate to plan and deliver events that contribute to community engagement, knowledge sharing, and regional development on Awaji Island.
Focus Areas
Projects and activities during the fellowship span a wide range of sectors, including:
- New business development
- International collaboration
- Tourism and hospitality
- Wellness and lifestyle innovation
- Agriculture and food systems
- Education and skills development
- Technology and digital solutions
- Social innovation
- Entrepreneurship
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Open to nationals of all countries
- Hold at least a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree
- Have prior professional work experience
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to addressing societal challenges
- Be willing to actively contribute to Awaji Youth Federation projects
- Uphold values of hard work, discipline, and care for others
Language proficiency tests such as IELTS are not required.
Fellowship Benefits and Support
Selected fellows will receive comprehensive support throughout the programme, including:
- Monthly salary of approximately ¥220,000 JPY, comprising base salary and work allowance
- Accommodation and meals provided, including utilities and dietary support
- Coverage of government fees, social insurance, and taxes
- Practical leadership experience in a real-world setting
- Opportunities to build a strong global professional network
- Enhanced cross-cultural competence and career-relevant skills
Please note: Travel to Japan and visa-related costs are generally the responsibility of the fellow. Employment is offered under a fixed-term contract for the duration of the programme.
Application Deadline
- 31 December 2025 (23:59 JST)
Early application is encouraged due to the competitive nature of the fellowship.
Why Apply for the Awaji Youth Federation Fellowship?
This fellowship is ideal for emerging leaders who are seeking:
- Immersive, hands-on leadership experience
- Exposure to community-based development and entrepreneurship
- Meaningful cross-cultural collaboration
- Opportunities to contribute to regional revitalisation in Japan
- Personal and professional growth within a global peer network
Fellows complete the programme with practical project experience, expanded global perspectives, and skills that can be applied across sectors and regions.
Need Support With Your Application?
We provide professional support for proposal drafting, proposal refining, and application review to help you submit a strong and competitive application.
📩 Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
