Apply for the Oxfam Young Leaders Fellowship 2026, a fully paid 15-month trainee programme offering a USD 3,600 stipend, international exposure, mentorship, leadership training, and hands-on experience in social justice, climate justice, and advocacy.
Overview
Applications are now open for the Oxfam Young Leaders Fellowship Programme 2026, a fully paid 15-month trainee programme designed for young people passionate about social justice, equality, human rights, climate action, and civic engagement.
Implemented by Oxfam in Asia in partnership with Asia Centre, this fellowship aims to nurture the next generation of leaders by providing mentorship, leadership training, advocacy experience, and regional networking opportunities.
Successful applicants will receive financial support, participate in international workshops, collaborate with development professionals, and gain practical experience implementing advocacy and community engagement initiatives across Asia.
One of the most attractive features of the programme is that applicants do not need professional work experience, making it an excellent opportunity for recent graduates and emerging young leaders.
About the Programme
The Oxfam Young Leaders Fellowship was established to empower youth leaders to address some of Asia’s most pressing challenges, including:
- Climate justice
- Gender equality
- Economic inequality
- Digital rights
- Civic participation
- Democracy and human rights
The programme combines structured learning, leadership development, advocacy training, mentoring, and practical project implementation.
Participants will become part of a regional network of young changemakers committed to building more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable societies.
Key Benefits
International Exposure and Learning
Fellows will benefit from:
- Regional collaboration with young leaders across Asia
- Cross-country learning opportunities
- International networking
- Exposure to Oxfam’s regional programmes
- Access to development experts and practitioners
Monthly Stipend
Selected fellows will receive:
- USD 400 per month
- Stipend paid for 9 months
- Total financial support of USD 3,600
- Payments issued in three instalments
Professional Mentorship
Participants will receive guidance from:
- Development practitioners
- Campaign specialists
- Advocacy professionals
- Policy experts
- Experienced social justice leaders
Leadership Development
The programme includes:
- Leadership workshops
- Advocacy training
- Public engagement strategies
- Community mobilization techniques
- Campaign planning and implementation
Hands-On Experience
Fellows will gain practical experience through:
- Youth-led advocacy initiatives
- Community engagement activities
- Network building
- Digital campaigning
- Social impact projects
In-Person Workshop in Bangkok
The fellowship includes a mandatory induction workshop in Bangkok, Thailand.
This workshop provides:
- Leadership development training
- Networking opportunities
- Team-building activities
- Regional collaboration sessions
- Strategic planning exercises
Travel support for approved programme activities is provided according to programme policies.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be 27 years old or younger
- Be citizens of one of the following countries:
- Bangladesh
- Cambodia
- India
- Indonesia
- Laos
- Myanmar
- Nepal
- Pakistan
- Philippines
- Sri Lanka
- Thailand
- Timor-Leste
- Vietnam
- Hold a university degree in any discipline
- Not be employed full-time
- Commit to avoiding full-time employment during the fellowship
- Demonstrate commitment to social change
- Have strong English language proficiency
- Be comfortable using digital tools and online platforms
- Be available for 30–40 hours per week
Strongly Encouraged to Apply
The programme particularly encourages applications from:
- Women
- Minority groups
- Indigenous communities
- Underrepresented populations
- Young social activists
Priority Thematic Areas
Applicants should demonstrate interest in one or more of the following areas:
Gender Justice
Supporting gender equality, inclusion, and women’s empowerment.
Climate Justice
Addressing climate-related challenges and promoting environmental sustainability.
Economic Inequality
Advancing equitable economic opportunities and social protection.
Civic Space and Democracy
Promoting democratic participation and civic engagement.
Digital Rights and Data Justice
Supporting responsible technology use and digital freedoms.
Inclusive and Responsible Value Chains
Promoting ethical and sustainable economic systems.
Public Mobilization and Social Movements
Building grassroots participation and community action.
Media Engagement and Communications
Using media and communications to advance social change.
Fellowship Responsibilities
Selected fellows will be expected to:
- Dedicate 30–40 hours per week to fellowship activities
- Participate in monthly online meetings
- Submit progress reports
- Attend the induction workshop in Bangkok
- Build and maintain a youth network of at least 50 active members
- Organize advocacy and engagement activities
- Produce digital content for the Civic-Asia platform
- Participate actively in leadership and learning sessions
- Support programme campaigns and initiatives
Required Application Documents
Applicants must prepare the following:
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Include:
- Educational background
- Leadership experience
- Volunteer activities
- Relevant achievements
Cover Letter
Outline:
- Areas of interest
- Relevant skills
- Reasons for applying
Motivation Letter
Explain:
- Why you want to join the fellowship
- Your preferred thematic area
- Relevant academic or community experience
- Career goals
- How you plan to create sustainable social impact
Two Recommendation Letters
Recommendations may come from:
- Lecturers
- Mentors
- Community leaders
- Supervisors
- Project coordinators
Selection Process
Stage 1: Application Review
Applications are evaluated based on:
- Leadership potential
- Motivation
- Commitment to social justice
- Relevant experiences
Stage 2: Written Exercise
Shortlisted applicants will complete a written assessment.
Stage 3: Interview
Candidates will participate in interviews conducted by the selection panel.
Stage 4: Final Selection
Only eight fellows will be selected for the programme.
How to Apply
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Gather:
- CV
- Cover Letter
- Motivation Letter
- Two Recommendation Letters
Step 2: Submit Your Application
Complete the official application form and upload all required documents.
Step 3: Await Shortlisting Results
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stages of the selection process.
Benefits for Future Career Growth
Participants will gain valuable experience that can support careers in:
- International NGOs
- Humanitarian organizations
- Development agencies
- Advocacy organizations
- Social justice movements
- UN agencies
- Policy and research institutions
The fellowship provides a strong foundation for future leadership roles within the international development sector.
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | Oxfam Young Leaders Fellowship 2026 |
| Organization | Oxfam in Asia & Asia Centre |
| Duration | 15 Months |
| Stipend | USD 3,600 Total |
| Monthly Support | USD 400 |
| Workload | 30–40 Hours Per Week |
| Location | Asia Region |
| Workshop Location | Bangkok, Thailand |
| Eligible Age | 27 Years and Below |
| Eligible Countries | 13 Asian Countries |
| Work Experience Required | No |
| Education Requirement | University Graduate |
| Number of Fellows | 8 Participants |
| Programme Focus | Leadership, Advocacy, Social Justice |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need professional work experience?
No. Professional work experience is not required.
Do I need a Master’s degree?
No. A university degree in any discipline is sufficient.
Can I apply if I work part-time?
Yes, provided your work does not interfere with programme commitments.
Is travel covered?
Programme-related travel, including mandatory workshops, is supported according to programme policies.
Is the fellowship remote?
The fellowship is primarily remote and hybrid, with required in-person programme components.
Conclusion
The Oxfam Young Leaders Fellowship 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity for young graduates and aspiring changemakers to develop leadership skills, gain international exposure, and contribute to meaningful social impact initiatives across Asia.
With a USD 3,600 stipend, professional mentorship, regional networking opportunities, and hands-on advocacy experience, the programme provides a valuable pathway into careers in international development, humanitarian action, policy advocacy, and social justice.
Young leaders who are passionate about creating positive change are encouraged to apply and take advantage of this unique opportunity to become part of a growing network of future development leaders.
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