Tutu Fellowship 2026 Unlocks Leadership Potential for Young Africans

The prestigious Archbishop Tutu Leadership Fellowship Programme is now accepting nominations. This initiative targets Africa’s most promising young leaders. The application window closes on September 21, 2025.

The programme is a flagship project of the African Leadership Institute. It identifies and nurtures high-potential individuals dedicated to the continent’s progress.

Rigorous Selection for Elite African Network

The selection process is highly competitive. It aims to find around 25 exceptional candidates each year. Fellows are typically aged between 30 and 39.

These individuals are considered the cream of Africa’s future leadership across all sectors. The programme seeks those already demonstrating significant impact in their fields. According to the Institute, nominees must show a strong commitment to ethical leadership.

A Transformative Five-Month Leadership Journey

The fellowship is a part-time, five-month intensive experience. It is run in partnership with Oxford University’s Saïd Business School. The curriculum focuses on African leadership within a global context.

Fellows participate in modules both within Africa and at Oxford. They learn from a world-class faculty and guest speakers. The programme emphasizes experiential learning over traditional teaching methods.

Successful graduates gain lifelong membership to an elite network of leaders. This network provides ongoing support and collaboration opportunities. The goal is to empower Fellows to drive positive change across the continent.

The Tutu Fellowship represents a critical investment in Africa’s future, equipping its next generation of leaders with the skills, network, and global perspective needed for transformative impact.

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Who is eligible for the Tutu Fellowship?

Citizens of any African nation aged between 30 and 39 are eligible. Candidates must demonstrate exceptional leadership potential and a commitment to Africa’s development. They can come from business, government, or civil society.

What are the main benefits of the programme?

Fellows receive world-class leadership training and a broadened global perspective. They also gain access to an invaluable network of African leaders. The experience is designed to build confidence and strategic thinking.

How competitive is the selection process?

The selection process is described as rigorous and highly competitive. Only about 25 individuals are chosen from a large pool of nominees each year. The Institute seeks only the most outstanding emerging leaders.

Is there a cost to attend the programme?

The programme is fully sponsored by corporate partners. This ensures that high-potential candidates can participate regardless of their financial background. The sponsorship covers the extensive training and modules.