2027 Sir Cyril Taylor Young African Leaders Program (Fully Funded)

Applications are open for the 2027 Sir Cyril Taylor Young African Leaders Program, a 12-month fellowship designed to support emerging leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa who are working to create positive change in their communities.

Organised by AFS Intercultural Programs through the AFS Youth Assembly, with support from the Sir Cyril Taylor Charitable Foundation, the initiative aims to equip young Africans with leadership skills, mentorship, project funding, and international networking opportunities.

The programme will select 10 young leaders aged 18 to 35 who demonstrate a commitment to sustainable development and community impact. Successful applicants will receive training, seed funding for social impact projects, and the opportunity to attend the AFS Youth Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, in August 2027, with travel and accommodation covered.

If you are a young African changemaker with a vision for addressing social challenges, this fellowship could help you strengthen your leadership abilities and expand the reach of your work.

2027 Sir Cyril Taylor Young African Leaders Program: Overview

Programme Name: Sir Cyril Taylor Young African Leaders Program 2027
Host Organisations: AFS Intercultural Programs (AFS Youth Assembly) and the Sir Cyril Taylor Charitable Foundation
Eligible Region: Sub-Saharan Africa
Duration: 12 months
Number of Fellows: 10
Age Requirement: 18–35 years
Funding: Fully funded fellowship with project seed funding and international travel support
International Event: AFS Youth Assembly, Geneva, Switzerland
Event Date: August 2027
Application Deadline: November 19, 2026
Official Application Portal

Important: Applicants should confirm the application deadline and submission instructions through the official programme announcement before applying.

About the Sir Cyril Taylor Young African Leaders Program

The fellowship seeks to develop a new generation of African leaders who can respond to challenges affecting their communities through practical, sustainable solutions.

The programme focuses on young people who are already demonstrating leadership potential or working on initiatives that address issues such as education, environmental sustainability, youth participation, social inclusion, and community development.

Over 12 months, selected fellows will participate in leadership training, intercultural learning, mentorship, and project development activities. They will also gain access to an international network of professionals and fellow changemakers.

A central component of the fellowship is helping participants turn their ideas into practical initiatives that can benefit their communities. Projects are expected to align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The third edition of the programme will select just 10 fellows, making it particularly important for applicants to demonstrate their leadership experience, commitment to community service, and ability to create measurable results.

Benefits of the Fellowship

Selected participants will receive a combination of financial assistance, professional development, and international exposure.

1. Seed funding for community projects: Fellows will receive seed funding to establish, implement, or expand social impact initiatives. The funding is intended to help participants translate their ideas into practical projects that address community needs.

2. Fully funded participation in Geneva: Successful fellows will attend the AFS Youth Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, in August 2027. The programme covers travel and accommodation expenses associated with attending the gathering.

3. Global Competence Certificate: Participants will enrol in the AFS Global Competence Certificate (GCC) programme, which develops intercultural understanding and the skills needed to work effectively across different communities and cultures.

4. Leadership development: The fellowship includes preparatory workshops and training designed to strengthen leadership, communication, collaboration, and project management abilities.

5. Mentorship and project support: Fellows will receive guidance as they develop and implement their community initiatives. This support can help participants refine their ideas, identify practical solutions, and improve the long-term sustainability of their projects.

6. Effect+ in the Community workshop: Participants will take part in the Effect+ in the Community workshop, which focuses on developing practical skills for designing and expanding community initiatives.

After attending the workshop, fellows will be expected to replicate it in their local communities, reaching at least 100 young people.

7. International networking: The programme provides opportunities to connect with other emerging leaders, mentors, and professionals working on social development initiatives across different sectors.

8. Recognition as a Sir Cyril Taylor Young African Leader: Successful participants will receive formal recognition as fellows of the Sir Cyril Taylor Young African Leaders Program, adding to their leadership and community development experience.

Eligibility Requirements

The fellowship is intended for young people from Sub-Saharan Africa who demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to sustainable development.

Applicants should meet the following requirements:

1. Age: Candidates must be between 18 and 35 years old.

2. Nationality or regional background: Applicants must come from a country in Sub-Saharan Africa. Nigerian applicants may be eligible, provided they satisfy the remaining conditions.

3.Leadership experience: Candidates should demonstrate leadership qualities through previous activities, professional responsibilities, volunteering, community engagement, or social impact initiatives.

Applicants who are already leading a project that benefits their community may be particularly well positioned to demonstrate their suitability.

4. Interest in sustainable development: Applicants should have a demonstrable interest in global affairs, youth issues, and sustainable development, preferably through work connected to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

5. English proficiency: Candidates must have intermediate-level English proficiency to participate in training, workshops, and international activities.

6. Valid passport: Applicants must hold an unexpired passport and be able to travel internationally.

7. Availability for the Geneva gathering: Successful candidates must be able to attend the AFS Youth Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, in person in August 2027.

8. Commitment to community impact: Applicants should be prepared to participate in the full fellowship and implement activities that benefit young people and their communities. Fellows must also be willing to replicate the Effect+ in the Community workshop locally, reaching at least 100 young people.

Meeting the minimum eligibility conditions does not guarantee selection. Applicants should demonstrate how their experience, goals, and proposed initiatives align with the programme’s objectives.

Who Should Apply?

This opportunity may be particularly suitable for:

Young Africans leading community development initiatives.
Founders of youth-focused social enterprises or nonprofit organisations.
Volunteers working on education, environmental protection, or social inclusion.
Youth advocates promoting sustainable development.
Emerging leaders developing projects aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Young professionals seeking to strengthen their leadership and project management skills.

For example, someone running a community education initiative, organising environmental activities, or helping young people access skills training could use the fellowship to develop a more effective and sustainable project.

Applicants should focus on demonstrating genuine community impact rather than simply expressing an interest in leadership.

How to Apply for the 2027 Sir Cyril Taylor Young African Leaders Program

Applications should be submitted through the official programme application channel.

VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY

Check other opportunities:

HENNGE Global Internship 2027 in Japan (Fully Funded)

How to Apply for a Canada Visa in 2026: Study, Visit, Work and Permanent Residence

Heinrich Böll Foundation Internship 2027 in the USA: $700 Monthly Stipend and J-1 Visa Sponsorship

Stanford Fisher Family Summer Program 2027 in the USA (Fully Funded Fellowship)

WHO Summer School 2027 in France: Free Training Programme in Nice

LPI Summer Internship 2027 in the USA | Fully Funded Undergraduate Research Opportunity

France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship 2027 (Fully Funded)