Adinkra Fellowship 2025: Empowering Rising Leaders from Africa and the Diaspora
About the Adinkra Fellowship:
The Adinkra Fellowship is a unique leadership program designed to unite and empower exceptional rising leaders aged 40 and under from both African nations and African diaspora communities globally. Each year, the fellowship selects a dynamic group of individuals who have demonstrated remarkable achievements, driven by their talent, passion, and values that inspire transformative change.
This fellowship focuses on fostering connections between Africa and the African Diaspora, creating an interconnected network of leaders committed to bridging divides, transforming communities, and shaping a better future for all. Fellows participate in immersive, transformative trips to both African and African-heritage countries, engaging in leadership programs and collaborating on initiatives that drive lasting change.
What Makes Adinkra Special:
The name “Adinkra” comes from the Adinkra symbols of Ghana, which represent core values like integrity, resilience, and unity. These symbols inspire the fellowship’s mission to promote connection, foster transformative change, and share universal human values across borders.
Who is Eligible?
- Age: Rising leaders aged 40 and under.
- Location: Applicants must be from Africa’s 54 countries or the global African Diaspora, including African American, Afro-Caribbean, Afro-Latinx, Black Canadian communities, and others.
- Sectors: The fellowship is open to individuals from diverse sectors, including:
- Business
- Technology and Innovation
- Arts and Culture
- Civil Society
- Public Service
If you are committed to driving change in your community or globally, this fellowship is an opportunity to connect with like-minded changemakers and amplify your impact.
Fellowship Program Overview:
The Adinkra Fellowship includes several key components designed to foster personal growth, build networks, and create positive, impactful change:
- 2 Transformative Week-long Trips: Fellows will participate in two international trips—one to an African country and another to a country with a strong African heritage. These trips feature:
- Thought-provoking discussions on the state of Africa and the Diaspora.
- Mentorship programs with lifelong mentors.
- “Meet the Leader” sessions with influential figures.
- Visits to cultural landmarks and innovative organizations.
- Skills-building workshops and team-building activities.
- An awards ceremony.
Expenses for the trips are covered by the Adinkra Alliance Institute, and fellows will receive a travel stipend of $1,500 ($750 for each trip).
- Group Projects: Fellows will work together on collaborative projects, further deepening their connections and impacting their communities.
- Adinkra University Tour: A tour to key educational institutions, enabling fellows to connect with academic leaders and engage in dialogues on Africa’s future.
- Alumni Events: Ongoing events after the fellowship to help alumni stay engaged, continue building relationships, and continue contributing to transformative efforts in their communities.
Selection Process:
The selection process for the fellowship begins with an open call for applications and nominations. A dedicated jury then reviews the applications, ensuring a transparent and fair process. The inaugural Adinkra Fellowship in 2026 will select 20 to 40 rising leaders to participate in this life-changing program.
Impact and Legacy:
The Adinkra Fellowship is an extension of the successful Africa 35.35 Awards, which recognized outstanding youth under 35 in Africa, highlighting their excellence and inspiring others to become changemakers. Building on this legacy, the Adinkra Fellowship aims to:
- Engage 2,000+ applications from across the globe.
- Have 110+ jury members review nominations.
- Reach millions of people through media coverage and social networks, continuing to raise awareness and inspire future leaders.
- Cultivate a community of rising leaders committed to transformative action.
Why Join?
The Adinkra Fellowship offers an incredible opportunity to:
- Connect with a network of like-minded changemakers.
- Gain exposure to new ideas and leadership practices.
- Engage in meaningful, action-oriented collaborations.
- Receive mentorship from influential leaders in various sectors.
- Contribute to the ongoing transformation of African and diaspora communities.
How to Apply:
To join the fellowship, applicants will need to submit an application during the open call period. You can expect to provide details about your background, achievements, and your vision for creating positive change. Applications close on 3 July 2025.
APPLY NOW
If you’re a rising leader driven by a passion for transformative action and ready to contribute to bridging gaps between Africa and the Diaspora, the Adinkra Fellowship offers the tools, resources, and network to amplify your impact on the world.
