Next Gen Initiative 2026 for Emerging African Women Leaders (Monthly Stipends, Leadership Development + Mentorship)

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Applications are open for Next Gen Initiative 2026. The Next Gen Initiative is the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Presidential Center for Women and Development’s flagship leadership program for emerging African women leaders. Designed to cultivate Africa’s next generation of women public leaders, the program provides promising young women with the exposure, experience, and support needed to advance their leadership journeys.

Over the 12-month fellowship, participants will engage in leadership development, mentorship, immersive learning, and hands-on public leadership placements alongside Amujae Leaders. Through this experience, fellows will gain practical exposure to public leadership, strengthen their leadership capabilities, expand their networks, and develop the skills and perspectives needed to drive meaningful change in their communities, countries, and across the African continent.

They are seeking purpose-driven young women who demonstrate integrity, curiosity, resilience, leadership potential, and a strong commitment to public service and advancing positive change in their communities and countries.

Next Gen Initiative Benefits

Fellows will gain practical exposure to public leadership, strengthen their leadership capabilities, expand their networks, and develop the skills and perspectives needed to drive meaningful change in their communities, countries, and across the African continent.
Selected fellows will receive a reasonable monthly stipend for the duration of the 12-month fellowship to support their participation in the program.

Eligibility Criteria

Be 25–35 years old as of October 1, 2026.
Hold an undergraduate degree with at least three years of relevant and consistent professional experience in public policy, law, development, gender, health, governance, or a related field.
Demonstrate strong leadership potential, integrity, and a commitment to public service and social impact.
Show a clear interest in developing their leadership trajectory and contributing to positive change in their country and across Africa.