Applications are open for the Young Leaders Fellowship 2026, a leadership programme supporting young changemakers working to prevent violence against children in schools.
Around the world, millions of children experience violence in and around schools. While education should provide a safe environment for learning and growth, many young people continue to face bullying, abuse, discrimination, and other forms of violence that affect their well-being and future opportunities.
Addressing these challenges requires more than policies and funding. It requires passionate leaders who understand their communities and are committed to creating lasting change.
The Young Leaders Fellowship 2026 is designed to support exactly those individuals.
Applications are now open for a one-year fellowship that brings together emerging leaders from the Global South who are working to prevent violence against children in and through schools. Through leadership development, mentorship, peer learning, and global networking opportunities, the fellowship aims to strengthen the next generation of changemakers in this important field.
Why Violence Prevention in Schools Matters
Schools play a critical role in shaping the lives of children and young people.
When students feel safe, they are more likely to:
- Attend school regularly
- Perform better academically
- Build healthy relationships
- Develop confidence and leadership skills
However, violence can have long-lasting consequences that affect learning outcomes, mental health, and future opportunities.
Organizations, governments, educators, and community leaders increasingly recognize that preventing violence in schools is essential for achieving broader development goals, including quality education, gender equality, and child protection.
About the Young Leaders Fellowship
The Young Leaders Fellowship is a one-year leadership programme focused on supporting young professionals and community leaders who are actively working to prevent violence against children.
Unlike many leadership programmes that focus primarily on theory, this fellowship is designed around practical learning and real-world challenges.
Participants continue working on their existing initiatives while receiving support to strengthen their leadership skills, expand their networks, and deepen their understanding of violence prevention strategies.
The first fellowship cohort will include approximately 8 to 10 fellows from different countries across the Global South.
What Fellows Will Gain
Leadership Development
One of the core goals of the programme is helping participants grow as leaders.
Fellows engage in conversations about leadership, personal growth, and professional challenges. They receive support to build confidence and develop their ability to influence positive change.
Strong leadership is not simply about managing projects. It is about understanding people, building trust, and creating environments where others can thrive.
A Stronger Global Voice
Many talented young leaders work on important issues but have limited opportunities to participate in international conversations.
The fellowship helps bridge this gap by creating opportunities for fellows to engage in policy discussions, conferences, expert seminars, and other activities that influence the future of violence prevention work.
Continuous Learning
Throughout the year, fellows participate in learning sessions that connect practical experience with evidence-based approaches.
Topics may include:
- Leadership development
- Project management
- Compliance and governance
- Recruitment and team building
- Communication and advocacy
- Monitoring and evaluation
These skills are valuable not only within violence prevention work but across many sectors.
Coaching and Project Support
Each fellow receives support in analyzing and strengthening their initiative.
This includes examining:
- What is working well
- Potential gaps
- Risks to long-term sustainability
- Opportunities for growth and impact
Learning how to critically evaluate and improve a programme is an important leadership skill that can benefit participants throughout their careers.
Community of Practice
One of the most valuable aspects of fellowships is often the network.
Participants become part of a community of peers who understand similar challenges and can provide practical support, advice, and encouragement.
The fellowship encourages collaboration rather than competition, helping fellows learn from one another’s experiences.
Who Should Apply?
The fellowship is intended for young leaders from the Global South who are actively involved in preventing violence against children in schools.
Applicants may come from:
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
- Community-based organizations
- Social enterprises
- School-focused initiatives
- Government-linked programmes
- Advocacy organizations
Projects do not need to be large or highly established.
What matters most is a demonstrated commitment to the issue and a clear vision for creating positive change.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants should generally:
Age Requirement
Be between 18 and 35 years old at the time of application.
Geographic Requirement
Be based in and working in a country within the Global South.
Professional Involvement
Be actively leading or making significant contributions to an initiative focused on preventing violence against children in and through schools.
Language
Be able to participate fully in English-language programming.
Commitment
Be willing to participate in virtual sessions throughout the year and attend an in-person convening.
What Makes a Strong Applicant?
The selection process will focus on more than academic qualifications.
The fellowship seeks individuals who demonstrate:
Commitment
A sustained interest in violence prevention and child protection.
Leadership Potential
The ability to influence change within their communities and organizations.
Openness to Learning
A willingness to listen, reflect, and grow alongside peers from different backgrounds.
Long-Term Vision
A clear understanding of the change they hope to create over time.
The programme also aims to ensure diversity across geography and gender.
Why This Opportunity Stands Out
Many fellowships focus on academic achievement or professional advancement.
This fellowship focuses on impact.
Participants are not selected simply because of what they have already accomplished. They are selected because of what they have the potential to achieve in the future.
For young professionals working in education, child protection, community development, social innovation, and human rights, this programme offers a valuable combination of leadership training, practical learning, and international exposure.
Application Tips
If you plan to apply:
- Clearly explain why preventing violence against children matters to you.
- Demonstrate your involvement in an existing initiative.
- Share examples of impact where possible.
- Explain what challenges you are trying to address.
- Show a willingness to learn from others.
- Be authentic and specific in your responses.
Selection panels often remember genuine stories more than polished buzzwords.
Important Dates
Application Deadline:
4 July 2026
Cohort Announcement:
Mid-July 2026
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline.
Final Thoughts
The Young Leaders Fellowship 2026 offers more than professional development.
It provides a platform for emerging leaders to strengthen their impact, build meaningful connections, and contribute to safer learning environments for children around the world.
For young changemakers working to protect children and improve education systems, this fellowship could be an important step in both personal and professional growth.
Disclaimer
FlexJobSpace is an independent career information platform. We are not affiliated with the fellowship organizers and do not participate in the selection process. All applications should be submitted through the official programme website. Applicants should verify all details directly with the organizers before applying.
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