The Mo Ibrahim Foundation Academy Fellowship, in partnership with Chatham House, offers early-to-mid-career professionals from Africa the opportunity to enhance their research and leadership skills during a ten-month residency in London Fellowship. This article will provide you with all details regarding this exciting opportunity!
Mo Ibrahim Foundation Academy Fellowship Overview
Eligibility: Open to citizens of any African country, including those with dual nationality. Applicants should hold a completed BA degree or equivalent and have experience conducting research. Ideal candidates come from academia, NGOs, business, government, civil society, or media sectors.
Duration: Ten months, from October 2025 to July 2026.
Location: Chatham House, London, with options for hybrid working.
Application Period: Opens at 12pm GMT on Friday, 28 February 2025, and closes at 12am GMT on Wednesday, 19 March 2025.
Fellowship Components
1. Personal Research Project:
Fellows design and undertake a research project aligned with their professional interests, guided by a Chatham House expert.
2. Leadership Masterclass Programme:
A series of activities aimed at developing leadership skills, including:
Intensive Induction Week: An initial five-day orientation to familiarize fellows with the fellowship's elements and their host research programme.
Thematic Sessions: Discussions on current international affairs challenges with subject matter experts.
Leadership Skills Workshops: Workshops focusing on aspects such as policy impact, stakeholder mapping, crisis management, and negotiation skills.
Leadership Briefings: Engagements with global leaders from various sectors who share their experiences and insights.
Project Presentations: Opportunities for fellows to present updates on their research projects, facilitating peer review and interdisciplinary analysis.
Personal Development Coaching: One-on-one sessions with a dedicated coach to enhance self-awareness and set personal development objectives.
Media Training: Training to develop effective interview skills for television and radio, including mock interviews with feedback.
Career Mentoring (Optional): Pairing with mentors to enhance career perspective and development.
3. Contribution to Chatham House Research:
Fellows collaborate with their host research team and other Chatham House teams, contributing to existing research priorities in line with the institute's mission.
Benefits and Coverage
Stipend: A monthly stipend of £2,565 to cover London living expenses, including accommodation, utilities, food, and transport.
Additional Support: Coverage of relocation costs (travel, accommodation support, and visa fees), UK Immigration Health Surcharge (excluding dental/optical care and prescriptions), and research expenses related to fieldwork, outreach, events, and publications.
Application Process
Required Documents: Applicants must submit a CV/résumé, names of two referees, and a proposal for a research project based on the provided topic guidance.
Selection Criteria: Applicants are evaluated based on nationality criteria, research experience, relevant background, leadership experience or potential, commitment to Chatham House's mission, ability to create positive impact, motivation for the fellowship, and proficiency in spoken English.
Selection Process:
Stage One: Review and shortlisting of applications by the selection committee.
Stage Two: Shortlisted applicants are invited to a Zoom interview with senior management and programme representatives. Successful candidates are notified via email.
Post-Fellowship Opportunities
Upon successful completion, alumni gain access to the Academy faculty and alumni network, as well as a five-year Chatham House membership.
ℹ️ For more information and to apply, visit the Chatham House website.
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