YALI Mandela Washington Fellowship 2018 program application period opened, yesterday, 13th September. The 700 successful applicants will enjoy a fully funded trip to the USA, among other benefits.
YALI stands for Young African Leaders Initiative. It was launched by Barrack Obama to groom the next generation of African leaders. Nairobi is one of the 3 Regional Leadership Centers in the continent.
Once deadline closes, applications will be reviewed by a selection panel and chosen semifinalists from Kenya will be interviewed by the U.S. embassy. If you get selected for an interview please have with you a copy of your passport or I.D. card.
Your application will be evaluated on whether you have a track record in one of leadership, accomplishment in public service, entrepreneurship or civic engagement. Also demonstrate your ability to work cooperatively with others and be committed to return to Kenya and make things better.
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The 700 young African leaders travelling to America, between June-August 2018, will be put through an academic coursework and leadership training. Specifically, this is what you will be up to if chosen:
- You, and other fellows, will be placed across U.S. colleges and universities to learn about business, leadership or public management in an intense 6-week period. You will gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills
- You, and other fellows, will participate in a 3-day summit at the conclusion of your schooling. The summit will be a platform to network and discuss with each other and U.S. leaders from public and private domains
- There will be an optional Professional Development Experience (PDE) at the YALI Fellowship 2018 program. You will be placed at a U.S. company, civil society or public center agency for further practical training.
Not only is the trip funded, by YALI, but also housing, meal, accident and sickness benefit plans will be covered.
Eligibility
- You should be between 25 and 35 years old at time of submitting your application. You also get a chance if you are below 25 but only if you’re exceptional (like these women)
- You are eligible to receive a United States J-1 Visa
- You must be proficient in reading, writing and speaking English
- Are a citizen of one of the countries in YALI Mandela Washington Fellowship 2018 program. Kenya is one of these
Deadline for application is 11th October, 2017. You can download the application procedure right now or visit the YALI Mandela Washington Fellowship 2018 official website and learn more to apply.