To protect and promote U.S. security, prosperity, and democratic values and shape an international environment in which all Americans can thrive.
The FY 2024 Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders (Mandela Washington Fellowship), established by the Study of the U.S. Branch, Office of Academic Exchange Programs, ECA, aims to cement stronger ties between Sub-Saharan Africa and the United States. This program prepares young African leaders for leadership roles across the continent, supporting the goals of democratic institution strengthening, economic growth and prosperity, and the enhancement of peace and security. The grant encompasses designing and implementing the Mandela Washington Fellowship, which includes six-week Leadership Institutes on U.S. campuses for about 700 Fellows, a Summit, Professional Development Experiences (PDEs) for approximately 100 Fellows, a Reciprocal Exchange component with at least 100 U.S. participants, and follow-on alumni activities. Responsibilities also include developing application materials, outreach and recruitment, applicant selection in collaboration with the U.S. Department of State, and oversight of U.S. host institutions for the Leadership Institutes in three track areas: Business, Civic Engagement, or Public Management.