Deadline: September 19, 2025
The Mandela Washington Fellowship Reciprocal Exchange Component 2026 is now open for applications. This highly impactful programme provides funding for U.S. professionals to partner with Mandela Washington Fellowship Alumni in Sub-Saharan Africa, implementing collaborative projects designed to create sustainable community impact.
This article provides all the key details you need to apply successfully for the Mandela Washington Fellowship Reciprocal Exchange Component 2026, including eligibility criteria, funding opportunities, application requirements, and deadlines.
About the Mandela Washington Fellowship Reciprocal Exchange Component
The Reciprocal Exchange Component is a unique initiative under the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI). It empowers U.S. professionals to work alongside Fellowship Alumni in Sub-Saharan Africa through in-person or hybrid projects. These collaborations aim to foster cross-border partnerships that deliver long-term benefits to local communities while strengthening U.S.–Africa relationships.
Funding Opportunities
Applicants can access significant funding to implement impactful projects:
- Up to $5,000 for in-person projects.
- Up to $3,000 for hybrid projects.
This funding covers project expenses necessary for delivering meaningful results in the partner African community.
Eligibility Criteria
The Mandela Washington Fellowship Reciprocal Exchange Component 2026 welcomes applications from:
U.S. Professionals:
- Must be U.S. citizens residing in the U.S.
- Cannot be U.S. Government employees or immediate family members of employees.
Fellowship Alumni:
- Must be in good standing with the Fellowship.
- Must reside in the country where the project will be implemented.
- Cannot be government employees or immediate family members of such employees.
Note: An individual cannot participate in more than two in-person projects under this programme.
Selection Criteria
Applications will be assessed based on the following factors:
- Community Impact: Clear, measurable benefits to the Fellowship Alumni’s home community or organisation.
- Mutual Benefit: Demonstrated advantages for both the U.S. applicant and the African partner.
- Collaboration: Projects must be jointly designed and implemented by both partners.
- Feasibility: A practical, well-structured project plan with achievable goals and timelines.
- Sustainability: Long-term impact beyond the project duration.
Application Requirements
To apply for the Mandela Washington Fellowship Reciprocal Exchange Component 2026, applicants must submit:
- Joint Application Form (in English) with accurate legal names and contact details.
- Work Plan using the official template and adhering to provided guidelines.
- Budget Form (in U.S. dollars) using the official template and budget guidance.
- Resumes for all participants (maximum two pages each, in English).
- Essay Responses (maximum 300 words per question).
Important Note: The use of generative AI tools to draft application materials is strongly discouraged as it often results in vague, low-quality, or duplicative responses.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the Mandela Washington Fellowship Reciprocal Exchange Component 2026 is:
September 19, 2025.
Applicants are encouraged to prepare and submit their applications early to ensure compliance with all requirements.
Why Apply?
The Reciprocal Exchange Component offers a powerful platform to:
- Strengthen U.S.–Africa partnerships.
- Contribute to meaningful development in African communities.
- Gain valuable international collaboration experience.
Final Thoughts
The Mandela Washington Fellowship Reciprocal Exchange Component 2026 is an exceptional opportunity for U.S. professionals to drive positive change in partnership with African leaders. By fostering joint initiatives, this programme not only supports community development but also builds enduring connections between the United States and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Click here to apply now
Read more about the programme here
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