Exciting Opportunity: Commonwealth Young Leaders Fellowship 2026 – Develop the Next Generation of Commonwealth Leaders ·Develop the Next Generation of Commonwealth Leaders

Commonwealth Young Leaders Fellowship Summary

Job Title: Commonwealth Young Leaders Fellowship
Job Location: United Kingdom, Antigua and Barbuda (International Travel Required)
Closing Date: July 19, 2026, 23:59 BST
Contract: 3-Month Leadership Development Programme (August – October 2026)

About the Commonwealth Young Leaders Fellowship

The Commonwealth Young Leaders Fellowship is a flagship leadership development initiative under the Commonwealth Leaders Academy, designed to empower emerging leaders from across the Commonwealth.

The programme aims to equip young professionals with essential skills, international exposure, and collaborative networks needed to lead transformative change within their communities and contribute to sustainable development across the Commonwealth.

Fellowship Overview

This immersive 3-month programme combines learning, mentorship, international collaboration, and practical leadership experience.

It is tailored for young individuals committed to community leadership, public service, or social impact work, aged 18-35, who demonstrate a strong track record or dedication to positive change.

Key Components of the Fellowship

• Leadership Development through a competency framework covering five core leadership skills
• International Exposure via two in-person convenings in the UK and Antigua and Barbuda

• Mentorship from senior practitioners, policymakers, and institutional partners
• Practical Impact Project focused on designing and implementing local interventions aligned with a Commonwealth-wide theme

Fellowship Structure and Timeline

• Month 1: Onboarding and immersion week in the United Kingdom (late August)
• Month 2: Institutional placement, working on assigned projects
• Month 3: National-level project implementation and final showcase
• Final Event: Presentation of impactful projects at the conclusion of the programme

Themes Addressed

• Democratic Governance and Civic Participation
• Digital Inclusion
• Peacebuilding
• Sustainable Development and Climate Justice
• Public Service

Who Should Apply

Open to young people (typically 18-35) from Commonwealth member states with a demonstrated commitment to community leadership, public service, or social impact work.

Applicants must be willing to commit fully to the three-month programme, including international travel and in-person convenings.

Travel and Logistics

Selected Fellows will undertake two international trips: one to the UK in late August and another to Antigua and Barbuda during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.

Applicants are responsible for their own travel costs; however, support letters for visas and potential partial bursaries or accommodation support may be provided based on funding availability.

Fellows are encouraged to seek co-funding from their institutions or organizations.

Support and Application Details

• Visa support letters provided by the Fellowship secretariat
• Partial travel bursaries or accommodation support may be available on a needs basis
• Applicants should plan to cover personal costs and explore additional funding opportunities

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their applications by July 19, 2026, at 23:59 BST.

For more information and to apply,

For questions, contact the CYLF programme secretariat at info@cwlac.org.

Join the Next Generation of Leaders Shaping a Sustainable and Inclusive Commonwealth

This is a unique opportunity for young changemakers to develop leadership skills, expand their international networks, and contribute to impactful projects that foster resilience, inclusion, and sustainability across the Commonwealth.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative fellowship.