MASS African Design Centre Fellowship: A Pathway for Emerging African Architects
The Model of Architecture Serving Society (MASS) African Design Centre Fellowship offers a unique 12-month residency in Kigali, Rwanda, for African architects and designers. This program aims to equip emerging leaders with the skills and knowledge to address the continent’s urbanization challenges. By focusing on culturally grounded and community-driven design solutions, the fellowship seeks to foster a new generation of professionals who can shape Africa’s future while honoring its rich architectural heritage. The MASS African Design Centre Fellowship is more than just a training program; it’s an incubator for innovation and a platform for impactful design.
Fellowship Goals and Focus Areas
The core objective of the MASS African Design Centre Fellowship is to empower African architects and designers to lead the continent’s development. Fellows will gain hands-on experience through a residency in Kigali, Rwanda, where they will be immersed in ongoing MASS initiatives. These initiatives span critical areas such as maternal and newborn health, expanding social and economic opportunities, and climate-positive development. The program encourages fellows to bring their own perspectives and research interests, fostering a dynamic dialogue between their ideas and the pressing challenges and opportunities facing Africa.
Key Activities for Fellows
During the twelve-month residency, fellows will engage in several key activities designed to deepen their understanding and practical skills. A significant portion of their time will be dedicated to conducting research, exploring indigenous knowledge systems, vernacular architecture, and urban patterns that are deeply rooted in African contexts. This research aims to uncover and integrate traditional wisdom into contemporary design practices.
Fellows will also actively participate in pilot projects, contributing to community-based design initiatives that align with MASS’s areas of work. This practical engagement allows them to apply their learning directly to real-world problems. Furthermore, fellows are expected to disseminate the knowledge and insights gained throughout their fellowship. This involves publishing reflective pieces that share their experiences and learnings, contributing to a broader understanding of design’s role in societal advancement.
Eligibility and Application Process
To be considered for the MASS African Design Centre Fellowship, applicants must meet specific criteria. They must be nationals of an African country and be 35 years of age or younger. Professional qualifications are also essential, requiring applicants to hold a degree in architecture, urban design, landscape architecture, engineering, or a related built-environment field. A crucial requirement is the ability to relocate to Kigali, Rwanda, for the entire duration of the fellowship, from October 2026 to September 2027.
The application process is structured in three stages to ensure a thorough selection of candidates. The first stage involves submitting an expression of interest, which includes a resume or CV, references, a portfolio showcasing previous work, and a statement of alignment with the fellowship’s goals. Candidates who successfully pass this initial screening will be shortlisted and invited to submit pre-fellowship essays and confirm their availability. The final stage consists of interviews for candidates whose essays demonstrate strong potential and a clear commitment to the fellowship’s mission.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the MASS African Design Centre Fellowship?
It’s a 12-month program in Kigali, Rwanda, for African architects and designers to learn how to address urbanization challenges with culturally relevant designs.
Who is eligible for the fellowship?
Applicants must be African nationals, 35 or younger, with a degree in architecture or a related field, and able to relocate to Kigali for the program.
What do fellows do during the program?
Fellows conduct research on African design, participate in community projects, and share their learnings through publications.
How can I apply for the fellowship?
The application involves an initial expression of interest, followed by essays and interviews for shortlisted candidates.
