The Resilience Fellowship 2026 offers a unique opportunity for young leaders in East Africa to develop their skills in climate action and mental health support. This program, organized by The Resilience Project, is designed to address the emotional toll that activism can take, providing a framework for sustainable leadership and community well-being. By focusing on healing, resilience, and collaborative growth, the fellowship aims to empower changemakers to navigate the challenges of their work more effectively.
About the Resilience Fellowship 2026
The Resilience Fellowship is entering its fifth year, continuing its mission to support young leaders aged 18-28 from Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania. The program spans nine months and is intentionally structured by youth for youth, emphasizing a human-centered approach. It recognizes that climate activism and community leadership, while rewarding, can lead to burnout, anxiety, and isolation. Therefore, the fellowship provides a supportive environment to deepen activism, improve emotional health, build peer relationships, and enhance community resilience. Participants will also gain valuable leadership and facilitation skills, receive mentorship, and explore restorative practices.
What Fellows Will Receive
Selected fellows will benefit from a comprehensive package designed for personal and professional development. This includes a fully supported five-day residential retreat focused on healing and connection. Participants will also receive professional training and certification as Mental Health First Aiders, equipping them with practical skills to support others. The fellowship offers training in facilitation, community leadership, and project management, preparing them to lead more effectively. Over eight months, fellows will receive monthly mentorship from experienced leaders to guide their growth and initiatives. A key component is building a strong community support network and lifelong professional relationships with other East African changemakers. Financial support, including a KES 40,000 stipend and covered travel costs, is also provided to reduce barriers to participation.
Fellowship Timeline and Commitments
The 2026 Resilience Fellowship will run from July 2026 to March 2027. This nine-month period involves various training sessions, mentorship, community engagement, and reporting. The program requires a significant commitment from participants. Fellows must complete a two-day online Mental Health First Aid training and attend the in-person residential retreat from July 31 to August 4, 2026. A core responsibility is co-leading Resilience Circles, which involve weekly sessions with 16-20 young people over eight weeks, requiring approximately five to six hours per week for preparation and facilitation. Participants will also be responsible for weekly reporting, coordination with the program team, monthly community calls for reflection and learning, and monthly one-hour mentorship meetings.
Who Should Apply and Eligibility Criteria
The fellowship seeks passionate young changemakers dedicated to climate justice, emotional well-being, and community leadership. Ideal candidates are those who care deeply about social and environmental issues, wish to strengthen their leadership abilities, are open to personal growth, and value collaboration and community care. Applicants must be between 18 and 28 years old, reside in Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, or Tanzania, and be available from July 2026 to March 2027. Proficiency in English is required, as is a willingness to facilitate community Resilience Circles and engage in discussions about climate anxiety and emotional well-being.
Application Requirement: Applying in Pairs
A distinctive aspect of the Resilience Fellowship is the requirement for applicants to apply as pre-formed pairs. This structure is designed to foster collaboration and peer leadership from the outset. Partners should already have a strong working relationship and complementary strengths. Both individuals in the pair will jointly facilitate Resilience Circles in their local communities. This emphasis on partnership aims to build a foundation of mutual support and shared responsibility throughout the fellowship.
Commitment to Inclusion and Diversity
The Resilience Project is committed to inclusion and intersectional climate justice. The fellowship actively encourages applications from marginalized and underrepresented communities, including individuals with lived experiences related to race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, socio-economic inequality, and faith. The program values diversity and aims to cultivate inclusive leadership practices that acknowledge complexity and varied perspectives.
Application Process and Deadline
Interested individuals must first download the official application booklet, which provides detailed instructions, guidance, and the required questions. Applicants are advised to prepare all responses thoroughly before submitting the online application form. The deadline for applications is 11:59 PM EAT on Sunday, May 31, 2026. Early application is strongly encouraged to allow ample time for thoughtful and comprehensive responses that highlight passion, partnership strength, leadership potential, and commitment to resilient community building.
Why the Resilience Fellowship Matters
The Resilience Fellowship addresses a critical gap in climate activism by prioritizing emotional well-being alongside action. It recognizes that sustainable social change depends on healthy, supported, and emotionally grounded leaders. By integrating mentorship, healing practices, mental health support, leadership development, and grassroots action, the fellowship provides a robust platform for East African youth to thrive personally while making a significant impact on their communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Resilience Fellowship 2026?
It’s a nine-month program for young leaders in East Africa focused on developing skills in climate action and mental health support, while also addressing the emotional toll of activism.
Who is eligible to apply for the fellowship?
Applicants must be between 18 and 28 years old, live in Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, or Tanzania, and have proficiency in English. They must also be available from July 2026 to March 2027.
What are the main commitments for fellows?
Fellows must complete online and in-person training, co-lead weekly Resilience Circles for eight weeks, participate in monthly calls and mentorship meetings, and submit weekly reports.
What is unique about the application process?
Applicants must apply as pre-formed pairs who already have a strong working relationship, as both partners will jointly facilitate community Resilience Circles.
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