Deadline: September 21, 2025
The Archbishop Tutu Leadership Fellowship Programme 2026 is now open for nominations! This prestigious fellowship, run by the African Leadership Institute (AFLI) in partnership with Oxford University’s Saïd Business School, seeks to identify and nurture exceptional young leaders across Africa.
Each year, approximately 25 high-potential individuals are selected to participate in this transformative programme, which blends academic learning, practical application, and experiential leadership development.
About the Archbishop Tutu Leadership Fellowship Programme 2026
The fellowship is a five-month part-time programme that combines residential modules in Africa and at Oxford University. It focuses on African leadership in a global context, drawing on both African and international perspectives. Participants will engage with leadership principles, values, and practical tools for effective impact.
This highly competitive programme aims to build a generation of ethical, courageous, and visionary African leaders committed to making a difference on the continent.
Benefits of the Fellowship
Successful applicants will gain:
- World-class leadership training delivered in Africa and at Oxford University.
- Exposure to global and African leadership challenges with academic, practical, and experiential learning.
- Networking opportunities with high-calibre peers, mentors, and global thought leaders.
- Hands-on project leadership, requiring fellows to lead an initiative that benefits at least 25 other Africans.
- Personal growth and development in values such as humility, empathy, systemic thinking, and ethical leadership.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Archbishop Tutu Leadership Fellowship Programme 2026, candidates must:
- Be aged between 30 and 39 years old by 30 April 2026.
- Be a citizen of an African country and either:
- Living and working in Africa, or
- Temporarily living abroad but working on African initiatives, or
- Have lived in Africa for at least 10 years with a strong commitment to return.
- Demonstrate a track record of leadership potential and achievements.
- Embody strong values and ethics in their personal and professional lives.
- Show commitment to creating positive change in Africa.
Qualities Sought in Fellows
The programme seeks candidates who embody the following qualities:
- Ability to inspire and mobilise others.
- Courage to take bold decisions and risks.
- Visionary thinking and innovation.
- Deep commitment to ethical values.
- Humility and empathy in leadership.
- Systems thinking with a focus on sustainable impact.
- Strong engagement with communities and social causes.
Application and Nomination Process
The Archbishop Tutu Leadership Fellowship Programme 2026 operates on a nomination basis.
- Each nominee must be put forward by a nominator.
- Only one nomination per nominee is permitted.
- Nominees must be consulted beforehand to ensure they have not already been nominated.
Deadline
All nominations must be submitted by 21 September 2025 (midnight South Africa time).
How to Apply
Nominations for the Archbishop Tutu Leadership Fellowship Programme 2026 must be submitted online.
👉 Click here to apply
👉 Read more about the programme
If you are passionate about creating sustainable change in Africa and meet the eligibility criteria, this fellowship is a golden opportunity to refine your leadership skills and join a powerful network of change-makers across the continent.
For support with proposal drafting, refining, and review, contact us today.
