Deadline: March 1, 2026
The John Lewis Young Leaders Program 2026–2027 is a transformative, year-long fellowship that empowers college students to become effective advocates for social justice, community organizing, and human rights leadership. This program honors the enduring legacy of Congressman John Lewis by equipping a new generation of young changemakers with the knowledge, skills, and networks needed to drive social impact in their communities.
About the John Lewis Young Leaders Program 2026–2027
The John Lewis Young Leaders Program 2026–2027 is a fellowship initiative dedicated to nurturing the next generation of civic leaders and human rights advocates. Through a combination of workshops, mentorship, and hands-on project experience, fellows will work to strengthen their leadership capacity and address pressing social issues affecting their communities.
Each selected fellow will design and implement a capstone project aimed at advancing social justice or civic engagement within their campus or local environment. The program combines skill development, personal mentorship, and practical experience to ensure fellows emerge as confident, well-prepared leaders capable of making lasting change.
Program Duration and Structure
The fellowship runs for one year, beginning in 2026 and ending in 2027. It features a blend of immersive and interactive learning components designed to foster leadership growth and community impact.
Fellows will:
- Participate in a 4-day leadership retreat featuring in-depth workshops on community organizing and civic leadership.
- Engage in monthly one-on-one coaching sessions with RFK Human Rights staff for personalized guidance and professional growth.
- Attend monthly cohort meetings to collaborate, share progress, and receive peer support.
- Complete and present a capstone project that highlights their leadership and community contribution at the end of the fellowship year.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the John Lewis Young Leaders Program 2026–2027, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be an undergraduate student enrolled in a 2- or 4-year accredited institution in the United States.
- Expect to graduate on or after May 2027.
- Show a demonstrated commitment to civic engagement, social justice, or community advocacy.
- Priority consideration is given to students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs), and Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs), as well as students from underrepresented or marginalized backgrounds.
Program Benefits
Fellows selected for the John Lewis Young Leaders Program 2026–2027 will receive comprehensive support to enhance their leadership journey, including:
- A $2,000 professional stipend, disbursed in two installments during the fellowship year.
- $1,000 in funding to support the fellow’s capstone project and related community engagement activities.
- A fully funded leadership retreat in summer 2026, providing training, networking, and collaboration opportunities.
- Access to professional development workshops, personal mentorship, and a network of experienced advocates and leaders in the field of human rights and social justice.
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: March 1, 2026
All applications must be submitted before this date. Late submissions will not be accepted.
Application Process
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications early. The process involves completing an online application form and providing information about your academic background, leadership experience, and motivation for joining the fellowship. Applicants are also expected to describe their passion for civic engagement and their vision for promoting justice and equality within their communities.
Why Apply?
The John Lewis Young Leaders Program 2026–2027 offers an extraordinary opportunity to follow in the footsteps of one of America’s most iconic civil rights champions. Fellows will gain hands-on experience, professional mentorship, and the chance to design meaningful community impact projects that can inspire systemic change.
Through this program, participants become part of a national network of young leaders working to advance democracy, equity, and human rights — embodying the spirit of “good trouble” that Congressman John Lewis so powerfully championed.
Deadline: March 1, 2026
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