Overview
The Commonwealth Young Leaders Fellowship is a flagship leadership development programme of the Commonwealth Leaders Academy. The programme equips emerging leaders with the skills, international exposure, and collaborative networks required to address complex challenges and contribute meaningfully to sustainable development across the Commonwealth.
The fellowship is designed to empower exceptional young leaders from across the Commonwealth with the knowledge, networks, and practical experience needed to lead transformative change in their communities and beyond.
Fellowship Experience
The programme offers an immersive leadership development experience through:
- Leadership development.
- International exposure.
- Mentorship and coaching.
- Access to a Commonwealth-wide network.
- Practical impact project implementation.
Fellowship Structure
The fellowship is built around:
- A competency framework covering five core leadership competencies.
- A Leadership Challenge Project requiring fellows to design and implement a local intervention connected to a Commonwealth-wide theme.
- Mentorship from senior practitioners, policymakers, and institutional partners.
- Two in-person convenings:
- United Kingdom.
- Antigua and Barbuda.
Duration
3 Months
August – October 2026
Programme phases include:
- Month 1: Onboarding and immersion week.
- Month 2: Institutional placement.
- Month 3: National-level project implementation.
- Climax: Final showcase.
Fellowship Themes
- Democratic Governance and Civic Participation.
- Digital Inclusion.
- Peacebuilding.
- Sustainable Development and Climate Justice.
- Public Service.
Eligibility
The fellowship is open to young people, typically aged 18–35 years, from Commonwealth member states who demonstrate:
- A track record of community leadership, public service, or social impact work.
OR
- A strong commitment to community leadership, public service, or social impact work.
Applicants must be prepared to commit to the full three-month fellowship period, including participation in both international convenings.
Travel and Logistics
Selected fellows should plan for two separate international trips during the fellowship:
- One week in the United Kingdom (late August 2026), hosted at partner institutions in London.
- One week in Antigua and Barbuda to participate in activities at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).
Important Funding Notice
Unless otherwise stated, fellows are responsible for covering their own travel-related costs.
Applicants are encouraged to plan accordingly and explore funding opportunities before applying.
Support Available
The Fellowship Secretariat will provide:
- Invitation letters for visa applications.
- Support letters for visa applications.
Where funding partnerships are confirmed, fellows may receive:
- Partial travel bursaries.
- Accommodation support on a needs basis.
Details of available support will be communicated directly to shortlisted applicants.
Applicants are also encouraged to seek co-funding from:
- Home institutions.
- Employers.
- National youth agencies.
Enquiries
For questions regarding eligibility, logistics, or the application process, contact:
Email: [email protected]
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their applications through the Commonwealth Young Leaders Fellowship application platform.
Application Deadline
19 July 2026 at 23:59 (BST)