Engage with the next generation of African leaders! 

In partnership with the private sector, host country governments, international and regional bodies, and civil society organizations, the U.S. Government is building a wide spectrum of high-impact opportunities, available both in the United States and in Africa, for Mandela Washington Fellows and Reciprocal Exchange Participants to utilize and hone their skills. 

Many local and multinational corporations, NGOs, universities, and regional institutions have become partners and are directly supporting the Mandela Washington Fellowship by hosting Fellows, collaborating with them on new initiatives in the United States and Africa, and offering access to grants, financing, mentoring, and other professional development opportunities.  Leveraging the resources, networks, and skills of private partners deeply enriches the program’s objectives by helping to identify promising young leaders and providing opportunities for Fellows to accelerate their growth and leadership trajectories. 

By partnering with the Mandela Washington Fellowship, you can: 

• Invest in the next generation of young African leaders who are rapidly shaping the continent’s future. 
• Reinforce the Fellowship’s commitment to an enduring partnership between the United States and Africa. 
• Help young African leaders develop skills and networks to build their countries and communities. 
• Increase mutual understanding between Americans and counterparts from African nations. 

Organizations can: 

• Sponsor the Mandela Washington Fellowship Summit, Leadership Institutes, and other Fellowship events and activities.
• Host a Leadership Institute on their educational institution’s campus.
• Host a Mandela Washington Fellow for their Professional Development Experience in the United States in August 2021. Placements are typically made in the spring and summer, but potential host organizations are encouraged to reach out year-round.  
• Engage and network with Fellows at the annual Mandela Washington Fellowship Summit and other events.  

Individuals can:  

• Host Mandela Washington Fellows for meals, cultural, and social activities during the Leadership Institutes in the United States.   
• Participate in networking events with the Fellows to share expertise and develop collaborations.  
• Read applications for the Mandela Washington Fellowship selection process.  

U.S. colleges and universities can: 

• Host a cohort of Mandela Washington Fellows for a Leadership Institute on their campus. Learn more about the Leadership Institute application process and sign up for our contact list here.
• Provide speakers and mentors for a program at a Mandela Washington Fellowship Leadership Institute.  
• Encourage staff to engage as individuals with Mandela Washington Fellows.  

If you are interested in working with the Fellowship in the United States or in Africa, please contact mwfellowship@irex.org for more information.