Deadline: March 1, 2026
The DAWN Fellowship Programme 2026 is an exceptional opportunity designed to support young women feminists from the Global South who are passionate about advancing feminist knowledge, advocacy, and action. The programme seeks to strengthen feminist leadership and encourage innovative projects exploring the intersections of gender-based violence, conflict, and power relations.
About the DAWN Fellowship Programme 2026
Organised by Development Alternatives with Women for a New Era (DAWN), the DAWN Fellowship Programme 2026 offers a platform for young women feminists to deepen their understanding of feminist political economy while working on self-designed projects. Fellows will engage with the theme “Political Economy of Gender-Based Violence and Conflict”, focusing on how gender-based violence shapes and affects societies, movements, and global feminist struggles.
For this cohort, the programme specifically welcomes projects that examine conflict-affected contexts in Sudan, Palestine, or the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Applications focusing on other regions will not be considered.
Who Can Apply
The fellowship is open to young women feminists under the age of 40 from countries in the Global South (Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Pacific). Applicants should demonstrate a strong commitment to feminist values and possess experience or interest in the study and practice of gender equality, women’s rights, and social justice.
Only individual applications are accepted — organisations, collectives, or groups are not eligible to apply.
Areas of Focus
Applicants are invited to propose individual projects related to the Political Economy of Gender-Based Violence and Conflict. Projects may take diverse forms, including but not limited to:
- Feminist research
- Advocacy and policy engagement
- Movement building and mobilisation strategies
- Creative or artistic expression exploring gender and power in conflict settings
Projects should demonstrate innovative feminist thinking and aim to contribute to knowledge, advocacy, or transformation within conflict-affected contexts.
Benefits of the Fellowship
Selected fellows will receive a comprehensive support package that includes:
- A monthly stipend of USD 1,200 for a duration of 10 months, covering project-related expenses such as travel, materials, and living costs.
- Mentorship and guidance from experienced feminist scholars, researchers, and activists.
- Access to DAWN’s global feminist network, creating opportunities for collaboration, publication, and participation in international feminist dialogues.
- The opportunity to publish or present project findings through DAWN platforms and events.
Application Timeline
- Call for Applications Opens: 19 January 2026
- Application Deadline: 1 March 2026
- Selection Results Announced: 30 April 2026 (only shortlisted candidates will be notified)
- Fellowship Commencement: Between 1 May and 30 June 2026
Applicants are encouraged to submit their materials well before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
Application Requirements
Applicants must complete and submit the following documents in English:
- Online Application Form – to be completed via the official application portal.
- Project Proposal (PDF format) – including project objectives, methodology, expected outcomes, and timeline.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) – outlining relevant education, experience, and achievements.
- Statement of Motivation – a short personal essay describing your interest in the fellowship and how your project aligns with DAWN’s focus.
- Letter of Recommendation – from a referee (not related to the applicant) who can attest to the applicant’s feminist engagement and potential.
Applicants may use translation tools if necessary, but all submissions must be in English.
Important Notes
- The proposed project must directly relate to conflict-affected contexts in Sudan, Palestine, or the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
- Only individuals are eligible; institutional or group proposals will not be accepted.
- Selected fellows must commit to completing the full 10-month fellowship period and actively engage with the DAWN network and mentors.
Conclusion
The DAWN Fellowship Programme 2026 for Young Women Feminists from the Global South represents a unique chance for emerging feminist leaders to explore transformative ideas and strengthen their voices in global feminist movements. Through mentorship, funding, and collaboration, the programme empowers young women to contribute to shaping more just and equitable societies.
If you are passionate about feminist activism, gender justice, and peacebuilding, this fellowship could be your pathway to impactful change.
👉 Click here to apply for the DAWN Fellowship Programme 2026
👉 Click here to read more about the DAWN Fellowship Programme 2026
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining and review.
