Introduction
In today’s interconnected world, leadership is no longer defined by borders. The challenges faced by humanity particularly the climate crisis require collective action that bridges regions, sectors, and generations. This is the vision behind the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) Fellowship 2025, a fully funded programme designed to empower emerging leaders from Africa, the global South, and the global North.
The AFC Fellowship is more than just a leadership training opportunity. It is a platform for dialogue, exchange, and collaboration among individuals who share a passion for tackling global challenges while shaping innovative solutions. At its core, the programme seeks to nurture a network of dynamic leaders who can build stronger connections between different regions of the world while creating strategies to address urgent issues such as climate change, sustainability, and governance.
If you are an emerging leader with a proven track record of professional experience, a commitment to positive change, and an interest in climate and development issues, then this fellowship could be your gateway to impactful global leadership.
Application Deadline
The application for the AFC Fellowship 2025 closes at midnight BST, Sunday 21 September 2025. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply early to avoid last-minute challenges.
About the Award
The AFC Fellowship is structured as a leadership development programme that goes beyond conventional training. It brings together emerging leaders from Africa, the global South, and the global North, creating a unique platform for exchange of ideas and experiences.
The central theme of the fellowship is the climate challenge, but it also addresses other pressing global concerns such as sustainability, governance, and innovation. By participating, fellows will gain skills, insights, and networks that will enable them to act as bridge-builders—connecting regions, fostering partnerships, and advancing collective solutions to some of the world’s toughest problems.
Eligible Fields of Interest
The programme is designed for leaders across multiple sectors who are passionate about:
- Climate action and environmental sustainability
- Innovation and technology
- Good governance and leadership
- Sustainable development and policy
- Global cooperation on pressing challenges
Applicants with diverse backgrounds—from business and public service to academia, civil society, and entrepreneurship—are welcome, provided they demonstrate genuine interest in climate and leadership.
Type of Programme
The AFC Fellowship is classified as a:
- Climate Challenge Leadership Fellowship
- Fully funded online fellowship with leadership, climate, and innovation focus
This means all selected fellows can participate without worrying about financial costs, making it inclusive and accessible.
Who Can Apply?
The fellowship targets emerging leaders with at least five years of professional experience. Candidates may come from any sector—business, government, academia, or non-profits—but must demonstrate a strong commitment to positive change.
Key requirements include:
- Proven leadership potential and professional achievements
- Strong motivation to drive social, economic, or environmental change
- Interest in climate issues and global North–South collaboration
- Ability to engage actively in online learning and dialogue sessions
Selection Process
Applicants are evaluated based on:
- Leadership potential – evidence of capacity to inspire, mobilize, and influence others
- Professional achievements – track record of excellence and impact in their field
- Motivation for change – clear vision for contributing to global solutions
- Commitment to addressing climate challenges – demonstrated interest in sustainability and innovation
Successful candidates will be those who not only show promise but also demonstrate readiness to contribute meaningfully to the fellowship and beyond.
Eligible Countries
The fellowship is open to applicants from:
- Africa
- The global South
- The global North
This inclusivity ensures that perspectives from different regions are represented, promoting rich discussions and innovative collaborations.
Location of the Programme
The AFC Fellowship 2025 will be conducted online. Participants will take part in:
- Live Zoom sessions led by experts and thought leaders
- Access to a 24/7 learning platform with resources, readings, and interactive materials
This format makes it flexible and accessible to leaders across the globe, regardless of geographical location.
Number of Awards
Each cohort of the fellowship will admit 40 fellows, ensuring diversity while maintaining a manageable group size for deeper interaction and collaboration.
Benefits of the Fellowship
The AFC Fellowship offers a wide range of benefits that go beyond traditional training. Selected fellows will enjoy:
- Leadership Skills Development – Training in the “Leading Beyond Authority” framework, which equips participants to lead effectively in complex environments where formal authority is limited.
- Global Networking Opportunities – Connection with peers from across the world, building lasting professional relationships and networks that extend beyond the fellowship.
- Access to Senior Decision-Makers – Engagement with experienced leaders, policymakers, and experts who provide mentorship and guidance.
- New Approaches to Innovation and Climate Solutions – Exposure to creative strategies and tools for addressing global climate challenges.
- Fully Funded Participation – No financial burden is placed on fellows, making the programme accessible to talented leaders regardless of their economic background.
Duration of the Fellowship
The programme will run from November 2025 to March 2026.
It will include:
- Multiple live sessions spread across the period
- Independent study through the learning platform
- Continuous peer-to-peer engagement and collaboration
How to Apply
Interested applicants can submit their applications through the AFC Fellowship portal. Candidates are encouraged to prepare thoroughly by highlighting:
- Their professional journey and achievements
- Leadership potential and examples of past leadership roles
- Motivation for applying, with specific reference to climate challenges and global collaboration
- Vision for how they intend to use the fellowship experience in their career and community
Conclusion
The Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) Fellowship 2025 is an opportunity for emerging leaders who want to make a difference not only in their communities but also on a global scale. With its focus on climate change, leadership, and collaboration between the global South and North, the fellowship is designed to create leaders who can rise above boundaries and shape a better future.
If you are passionate about building bridges, advancing innovation, and contributing to sustainable solutions, this fellowship could be your chance to grow, connect, and lead.
