Applications Open: Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity 2026 – Transforming Indigenous-Led Change with 5+ Years of Experience
Program Overview
The Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity (AFSE) is a transformative fellowship program dedicated to driving Indigenous-led systemic change across Australia, Aotearoa New Zealand, and the Pacific Island nations. Hosted by the University of Melbourne and supported by Waipapa Taumata Rau University of Auckland, AFSE brings together a diverse cohort of leaders committed to advancing social equity through Indigenous knowledges, innovation, and creativity.
Fellowship Journey
Year 1: Master Change Leadership
- Tailored Curriculum: Fellows undertake a fee-free Master of Social Change Leadership degree at the University of Melbourne, uniquely designed for AFSE participants.
- Targeted Skill Building: The program includes specialized modules that develop critical leadership capabilities through real-world applications.
- Immediate Application: Fellows work closely with their communities to implement innovative solutions addressing local challenges.
Year 2 and Beyond: Join a Global Community
- Powerful Network: Become part of a community of over 1,000 changemakers worldwide.
- Lifelong Support: Access ongoing collaboration opportunities that strengthen leadership skills and amplify impact.
- Collective Impact: Leverage the combined strength of the Global Atlantic Fellows network to create lasting positive change.
Support and Funding
Foundation Year (2026):
- Fee-free Master’s Degree: Complete the Master of Social Change Leadership at the University of Melbourne.
- Comprehensive Coverage: All costs covered, including travel, accommodation, cultural activities, and program events.
- Generous Stipends: Receive a $10,000 personal stipend to assist with everyday expenses, with additional funding up to $42,000 available based on personal circumstances.
- Academic and Wellbeing Support: Access personal academic support, free mental health services from Indigenous psychologists and counselors, and disability support.
Lifelong Fellowship (2027 and Beyond):
- Project Funding: Access up to $25,000 to implement your Indigenous-led social change initiative.
- Professional Development: Receive a $3,500 professional development fund available for up to three years.
- Global Community: Continue engagement with AFSE through mentoring opportunities, events, and promotion of your work.
Eligibility Criteria
- Experience: Minimum of 5 years of experience in social change work, typically mid-career professionals aged 25–65.
- Education: An undergraduate degree or equivalent experience.
- Citizenship: Must be a citizen or permanent resident of Australia, Aotearoa New Zealand, or a Pacific Island nation.
- Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English is required.
- Travel Requirements: Ability to travel for seven weeks throughout the year, including various locations across Australia and New Zealand.
Key Dates
- Applications Close: 28 July 2025 at 11:59 pm (AEST)
Modules of Study
The Master of Social Change Leadership comprises six modules:
- Enacting Influence
- Disruption and Change
- Collaborative Fieldwork
- Indigenous Leadership
- Powerful Encounters
- Indigenous Social Change Project
Each module includes a week-long in-person component, requiring just 6 to 7 weeks away throughout the year to minimize disruption to family and community life. Travel expenses for these sessions are covered, with most sessions held in Naarm (Melbourne) and select experiences hosted in Indigenous communities across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand.
Application Process
Interested individuals can apply through the official AFSE application portal. Detailed information about the application process, including required documents and selection criteria, is available on the AFSE website.
Conclusion
The Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity program offers a unique opportunity for experienced changemakers to deepen their leadership capabilities, engage with Indigenous knowledges, and collaborate within a global community committed to systemic change. If you are ready to transform your vision for a more equitable world into powerful, lasting change, consider applying for the 2026 cohort.
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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the awarding organisation. For any inquiries, please contact the hiring organisation directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
