The WomEng Southern Africa Fellowship powered by De Beers Group is a transformative leadership and skills development program tailored for young women engineering and technology graduates. The fellowship offers participants the opportunity to hone critical skills needed to succeed in the fast-evolving world of work, with a focus on leadership, innovation, well-being, and employability.
This unique hybrid learning programme is set to run in 2025 and will empower female engineering and technology students with the tools, networks, and mentorship required to become confident leaders in their industries. The programme will be delivered through interactive online sessions, live virtual masterclasses, and a structured, module-based approach that ensures an enriching learning experience.
Key Programme Features:
Hybrid Learning Format:
- Online WhatsApp Chats: Regular chats to foster community, discussion, and knowledge exchange.
- Live Virtual Masterclasses: Sessions led by experts to provide real-time learning, sharing of experiences, and skill-building.
- Four Key Modules: Designed to empower students and provide them with practical skills that will help them excel in their careers.
Modules Overview:
- Leadership – Unlocking and Telling Your Own Story
This module focuses on the power of self-awareness, storytelling, and effective leadership strategies for women in male-dominated industries. - Innovation – Developing Skills for the Future World of Work
The world of work is rapidly changing. This module will prepare you with the critical thinking and innovative problem-solving skills required to navigate new challenges in the engineering and technology sectors. - Employability – Thriving in the Workplace
This module is designed to equip you with the necessary professional skills to stand out in the workplace, from resume building to navigating career growth in a competitive environment. - Renewable Energy – Introduction to Renewable Energy
A forward-thinking module focused on the growing role of renewable energy in sustainable development and its impact on future industries. It provides an introduction to green energy solutions and the opportunities they offer.
In addition to these technical modules, the programme emphasizes well-being and self-care, encouraging Fellows to build resilience and healthy coping mechanisms to manage stress and thrive both personally and professionally.
Who is Eligible to Apply?
The WomEng Southern Africa Fellowship is open to women who are currently enrolled as full-time students at universities or universities of technology in South Africa, Botswana, or Namibia.
To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Gender: The program is specifically designed for women and individuals who identify as women.
- Study Status: Applicants must be in their second last or final year of undergraduate studies, or pursuing full-time postgraduate studies (either entering the workforce in 2025 or 2026).
- Academic Requirements: Applicants must be studying engineering, technology, or built environment degrees at a recognized institution in the specified countries.
- Time Commitment: Participants should be able to commit 7-9 hours per month from March 2025 to complete the programme, which has been structured to accommodate academic schedules and holidays.
- Exclusions: WomEng Fellowship alumni are not eligible to apply.
Benefits of the Fellowship
By participating in the WomEng Southern Africa Fellowship, Fellows will receive a wide range of benefits, including:
- Exclusive Resources: Access to leadership, innovation, well-being, and employability resources designed to help Fellows excel in the workforce.
- Professional Networking: Grow your professional network by connecting with other like-minded women, leaders from De Beers Group, and the wider WomHub Founder community.
- Mentorship: Opportunities to engage with mentors who are leaders in engineering, technology, and business.
- Leadership Development: The program provides targeted support for developing leadership capabilities, ensuring that Fellows are ready to lead with confidence in their future careers.
- Community Building: Join a supportive community of women in engineering and technology, working together to break barriers and drive change in the industry.
Selection Process
Applicants will need to complete their application online via the provided link: WomEng Southern Africa Fellowship 2025 Application.
- Application Deadline: The deadline for submission is 27 February 2025 at 23:59 SAST.
- Screening and Shortlisting: Applications will be reviewed by an expert panel who will assess candidates based on their potential to contribute to the fellowship program.
- Successful Applicants: Those selected will be contacted directly with further information about the programme’s delivery.
Contact Information
For more details or any queries, applicants can contact the program team at:
Email: [email protected]
Conclusion
The WomEng Southern Africa Fellowship is a unique opportunity for aspiring women in engineering and technology to build essential skills, gain exposure to industry leaders, and prepare for an exciting career in the evolving world of work. If you are passionate about shaping the future of engineering, technology, and sustainability in Southern Africa, this fellowship could be the stepping stone you need to achieve your professional goals.
Apply now and join a vibrant community of women who are ready to lead, innovate, and transform the world!
