Understanding the Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity Fellowship

The Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity (AFSE) Fellowship is a unique program designed to empower Indigenous and Pacific leaders and their allies. It focuses on driving social change and advancing equity through a combination of academic study, leadership development, and community engagement. This fellowship aims to center Indigenous and Pacific knowledge systems and support leaders working to create a more just world.

What is the Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity Fellowship?

The AFSE Fellowship is part of a global network of Atlantic Fellows programs. It is specifically tailored for emerging and established Indigenous and Pacific leaders, as well as allies who are dedicated to social transformation led by Indigenous peoples. The core belief of the program is that Indigenous and Pacific communities already possess the knowledge and solutions needed to address challenges and contribute to global change. The fellowship seeks to amplify these voices and support initiatives that promote social equity.

The program is hosted by leading institutions, including the University of Melbourne and Waipapa Taumata Rau University of Auckland. It is supported by the Atlantic Institute and the Rhodes Trust. This collaboration ensures a robust academic and networking experience for all participants.

The Fellowship Journey: Foundation Year and Lifelong Support

The AFSE Fellowship is structured in two main phases: the Foundation Year and the Lifelong Fellowship.

Foundation Year

The Foundation Year is an intensive period where up to 20 selected Indigenous and Pacific leaders and allies engage in collaborative learning. During this year, participants develop strong professional and personal relationships. A key component is the completion of a fee-free academic qualification from the University of Melbourne. Fellows can choose between a Master’s degree in Social Change Leadership or a Graduate Certificate in Social Change Leadership. The curriculum is designed to integrate Indigenous and Pacific knowledges with critical thinking, systems change approaches, community-based learning, and academic scholarship. Importantly, the program allows Fellows to remain connected to their home communities throughout their studies.

Lifelong Fellowship

Upon successful completion of the Foundation Year, Fellows become Senior Fellows and join a lifelong community. This stage offers continued opportunities for collaboration, global networking, and support for social change initiatives. Senior Fellows can participate in Atlantic Fellows summits and access international changemaker communities. This ongoing support is designed to strengthen their long-term impact and help them expand their leadership work and initiatives.

Programme Delivery and Learning Structure

The AFSE Fellowship is delivered over one year, blending various learning methods. It combines in-person learning modules, online tutorials, community engagement, academic assessments, and collaborative activities. A distinctive feature is that Fellows spend most of the year within their home communities, balancing study with their existing commitments.

In-Person Learning Modules

The Foundation Year includes five intensive in-person modules, each lasting about 5-8 days. These modules typically involve around 40 days of travel throughout the year. The locations for these modules are spread across Australia, Aotearoa New Zealand, and Pacific Island nations. Some sessions are held directly within Indigenous and Pacific communities to foster deeper cultural learning and exchange.

Online Tutorials and Academic Engagement

Online tutorials are held every second week. These sessions involve group discussions, oral assessments, collaborative reflection, and interactive learning. The program uses a variety of assessment formats, which may include written assignments, oral presentations, group projects, reflective exercises, and applied project work. Fellows receive academic feedback, peer support, and guidance for their leadership development.

Fully Funded Fellowship Benefits

The AFSE Fellowship provides significant support to its selected participants.

Academic Benefits

Fellows receive a fee-free Master’s degree or Graduate Certificate from the University of Melbourne. They also gain access to the university’s academic resources and benefit from an Indigenous and Pacific-centered curriculum.

Travel and Accommodation Support

The fellowship fully covers all travel costs, accommodation, and program-related expenses for the in-person sessions. This ensures that financial barriers do not prevent participation.

Leadership and Networking Opportunities

Participants gain access to international changemaker networks, long-term collaboration opportunities, and dedicated leadership development. They also benefit from mentorship and peer learning throughout the program.

Global Atlantic Fellows Network

Fellows become part of a global fellowship network, which includes international summits and convenings. This provides lifelong professional support structures and connections with changemakers worldwide.

Who Should Apply?

The program is seeking mid-career professionals, community-focused leaders, and Indigenous and Pacific changemakers. Allies who are committed to Indigenous-led equity work are also encouraged to apply. Applicants can come from diverse sectors, including community organizations, government, healthcare, education, business, media, arts and culture, public policy, advocacy, and environmental work. The fellowship is particularly suited for leaders who are already engaged in initiatives aimed at improving social equity and community well-being.

Why This Fellowship Matters

The Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity Fellowship is more than just an academic program; it is a transformative leadership experience. It is grounded in Indigenous wisdom, community-centered leadership, systems change, and social justice. The fellowship creates a vital space for Indigenous and Pacific leaders to strengthen their impact, expand their networks, develop sustainable initiatives, and build collective power. By doing so, it helps influence future systems and policies for greater equity.

2027 Fellowship Updates

The AFSE program has announced plans for changes to the 2027 Foundation Year. These updates are intended to further strengthen Indigenous and Pacific on-country learning, community exchange, and fellowship collaboration. More detailed information about the program is expected to be released in mid-2026.

Application Information

Applications for the 2027 Fellowship are currently open. Prospective applicants are encouraged to carefully review the program details, reflect on their social change initiatives, and prepare for a collaborative and intensive fellowship experience. For specific program details and application instructions, interested individuals should visit the official Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity website.

Frequently Asked Questions