Governance, Entrepreneurship, Leadership, and Diplomacy Fellowship (GLED) 2025
Theme: Empowering Africa’s Present and Future Leaders for Global Impact
What is GLED?
The Governance, Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Diplomacy (GLED) Fellowship is a fully funded program aimed at empowering Africa’s present and future leaders for global impact. The fellowship combines virtual and in-person sessions, emphasizing mentorship, capstone projects, and cross-cultural leadership development. It annually selects 500 fellows from across 54 African countries, with quotas allocated based on population and strategic considerations.
Program Objectives
- Deepen understanding of governance systems and public policy-making.
- Develop essential skills in negotiation and cross-cultural communication.
- Empower young leaders to address community challenges through innovative solutions.
- Foster ethical leadership principles and practices among fellows.
- Establish a strong network of youth leaders committed to sustainable development.
The Four Pillars of GLED
- Governance: Policy frameworks, ethical leadership, public administration.
- Diplomacy: International relations, negotiation, peace-building.
- Leadership: Crisis management, vision-setting, transformational leadership.
- Entrepreneurship: Innovation, fundraising, business strategy.
Key Features & Benefits
Fellow Assisted-Fully Funded Training & Mentorship
Focused on governance, leadership, entrepreneurship, and diplomacy.
Hybrid Learning
Virtual masterclasses and immersive in-person sessions.
Capstone Projects
Real-world initiatives for community impact.
Networking Opportunities
Connect with global experts and peers.
Fellowship Benefits & Impact
Personal Growth
Leadership, strategic thinking, and networking skills.
Community Transformation
Fellows lead projects that impact thousands.
Policy Engagement
Interact with policymakers and global thought leaders.
Global Alumni Network
Lifelong membership in an exclusive leadership community.
Program Journey
Phase 1: Immersive In-Person Bootcamp
Phase 2: Virtual Learning & Mentorship
Phase 3: Impact-Driven Capstone
Application Process Overview
Online Application
Online Interviews
Aptitude Tests for Shortlisted Candidates
Submission of a Statement of Interest & Capstone Proposal
Programme Requirements & Selection Criteria
- Young leaders aged 18-45 years
- Located in or leading a project in any of the 54 African countries
- Demonstrating a significant impact in governance, leadership, entrepreneurship, or diplomacy
- Commitment to full participation, including virtual and in-person sessions
- Successful completion of application review, online interviews, aptitude tests, and capstone proposal evaluation