Are you a young leader in Africa or the Global South with a passion for social impact? The One Million Leaders Africa (OMLA) initiative has officially opened applications for its 2026 Fellowship Program. This is your chance to join a prestigious network of changemakers dedicated to solving the world’s most pressing challenges through social entrepreneurship and sustainable development.
OMLA’s mission is ambitious: to identify, nurture, and connect a new generation of ethical leaders who will drive the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across the continent and beyond.
What Makes the OMLA Fellowship Unique?
This isn’t just another leadership workshop. The OMLA Fellowship is a high-intensity, transformative experience designed to move participants from "idea" to "impact."
As a Fellow, you will engage in a curriculum centered on:
Social Entrepreneurship: Learning how to build sustainable models for social change.
Sustainability & SDGs: Deepening your understanding of the 2030 Agenda and how to apply it locally.
Leadership Ethics: Developing the character and resilience needed to lead through complex challenges.
Community Scaling: Moving beyond individual projects to create systemic, community-wide shifts.
Why You Should Apply
The fellowship offers a robust support system to ensure your vision becomes a reality:
Expert Mentorship: Get matched with global mentors who provide strategic guidance and professional networking.
Global Community: Connect with a diverse cohort of peers from across the Global South, fostering cross-border collaboration.
Visibility: Showcase your social impact projects to a wider audience of partners and potential investors.
Resource Access: Gain access to exclusive tools, webinars, and funding opportunities reserved for the OMLA network.
Is This Fellowship for You?
OMLA is looking for individuals who don't just talk about problems but are actively working on solutions. Ideal candidates meet the following criteria:
Age: Typically between 18 and 35 years old.
Location: Residents of Africa or other Global South regions.
Track Record: You should already be leading a social project, non-profit, or community initiative.
Language: Proficiency in English is required for the core program activities.
How to Join the 2026 Cohort
The selection process is looking for "High-Potential, High-Impact" individuals.
Online Application: Complete the detailed application form on the Global South Opportunities portal.
Project Summary: Be ready to provide a clear overview of the social challenge you are tackling and the impact you have achieved so far.
Deadline: While applications are rolling, early submission is highly encouraged to secure a spot in the upcoming interviews.