What Is the AfYWL Fellowship Programme 2025?
The AfYWL Fellowship Programme 2025 is a prestigious 12-month leadership initiative led by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with the African Union Commission (AUC). Targeted at young African women under 30, the fellowship provides an opportunity to work at UNDP headquarters in New York or in a regional/country office (excluding hardship locations).
With a monthly stipend, travel and insurance support, and access to exclusive mentorship and leadership training, AfYWL is more than just an international placement. It is developed to be a step toward shaping the continent’s future.
Why the AfYWL Fellowship Programme 2025 Is More Than a Fellowship
While many fellowships offer exposure, the AfYWL Fellowship Programme 2025 is deliberately structured as a career accelerant and leadership incubator. Fellows work on real-world development projects aligned with SDGs and Agenda 2063, contributing to critical sectors like climate change, peacebuilding, gender equality, and youth empowerment.
What sets it apart is the depth of the experience. Fellows are not observers; they are also contributors. They attend high-level meetings, support implementation of UNDP strategies, and participate in missions that drive real impact across Africa and beyond.
Who Should Apply for the AfYWL Fellowship?
You should apply if you are:
- A woman under 30
- A national of an African Union member state
- A holder of a Master’s degree
- With no more than two years of paid relevant work experience
- Passionate about development, governance, gender, youth, climate, or innovation
- Eager to work outside your country of residence
- Able to embody the UNDP values: integrity, professionalism, and results orientation
This fellowship is not for the passive. It’s active! It’s for those ready to stretch, learn, unlearn and lead in unfamiliar but rewarding global spaces.
The Hidden Value of the AfYWL Fellowship
What most people don’t realize is that AfYWL isn’t just a one-year assignment. It is ultimately a talent pipeline. Many fellows go on to occupy roles in the UN system, regional bodies, or international organizations. The programme is building a pan-African sisterhood of leaders, quietly shifting who influences development discourse on the continent.
It’s also an opportunity to access exclusive mentorship from senior African and global leaders. This is a chance that many professionals don’t get until much later in their careers.
Critical Success Factors for the Fellowship Programme 2025 Applicants
Meeting the criteria is important. But standing out is critical. Here are key success factors:
- Purpose over personal prestige: Show genuine commitment to driving change, not just career ambition.
- Agility and openness: Demonstrate that you can adapt and thrive across cultures, systems, and countries.
- Vision with clarity: Be able to articulate your development interests and long-term goals clearly.
- Resilience and leadership maturity: Show emotional intelligence and a calm, confident presence.
- Communication power: Strong writing and verbal communication will help you stand out at every stage.
This is a highly competitive programme. It’s not about perfection. It’s looking for desire and promise.
How to Apply for the AfYWL Fellowship Programme 2025
Applications are open until 1 June 2025.
Visit the official application page:
👉 UNDP Job Application
Be prepared to submit your CV, academic documents, and written responses that highlight your leadership journey, interests, and alignment with UNDP’s mission.
Final Thoughts: Is the AfYWL Fellowship Programme 2025 Right for You?
If you’re a young African woman who is:
- Determined to leave your mark
- Ready to lead from the front
- Willing to take on complex challenges
- And eager to work across borders and boundaries
…then the AfYWL Fellowship Programme 2025 could be for you.
It’s not just about where you’re going, it’s about who you’ll become.
Author: Jide Awe
Science, Technology and Innovation policy advisor.
Nigeria’s Inaugural Tech Mentor of the Year
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