The Resilience Fellowship: A Deep Dive for East African Changemakers

Are you an East African changemaker between the ages of 18 and 28, passionate about climate justice and building stronger communities? Do you and a partner already work well together and are you ready for a nine-month journey of personal growth, leadership, and community impact? If so, the Resilience Fellowship might be the opportunity you’ve been looking for. This program is designed for dedicated individuals ready to commit to intensive training, peer leadership, and meaningful community work.

Understanding the Resilience Fellowship

The Resilience Fellowship is a nine-month program focused on developing emotionally resilient communities and empowering young leaders. It’s not just about learning; it’s about deep personal growth, healing, and applying new skills to real-world challenges. The fellowship is specifically looking for pairs of changemakers who can work collaboratively to bring about positive change in their local areas.

Who Should Apply?

To be considered for the Resilience Fellowship, applicants must meet several key criteria. First, you must be between 18 and 28 years old. You also need to be based in Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, or Tanzania. A significant commitment is required, as you must be available from July 2026 to March 2027 to participate fully in training, facilitation, mentorship, and reporting.

Crucially, the fellowship requires applications from pre-formed pairs who already have a strong working relationship. This is because the program trains pairs to lead “Resilience Circles” together in their communities. Passion for climate justice and building emotionally resilient communities is essential. Ideal candidates are excellent listeners, compassionate leaders in training, and eager to support others. Openness to exploring topics like climate anxiety and burnout is also important, as is proficiency in English.

Benefits of Participation

Selected fellows will experience a wide range of benefits designed to foster personal well-being and professional development. The program includes a five-day “Resilience Residential” in nature, offering a chance for deep restoration with good food, meaningful conversations, and personal healing. Participants will also receive certification as a Mental Health First Aider, a valuable skill for community support.

The fellowship equips participants with new skills in facilitation, leadership, project management, and community care. Over the course of the program, fellows can expect reduced climate anxiety, improved emotional well-being, and strengthened community bonds. They will receive eight months of expert intergenerational mentorship, fostering continuous learning and guidance. Beyond skills and support, the fellowship promises lifelong friendships and the creation of a powerful support network. Financially, fellows receive a KES 40,000 stipend, and travel expenses are covered.

The Commitment Involved

The Resilience Fellowship demands a significant commitment from its participants. Over the nine months, fellows will complete a two-day online Mental Health First Aid training. They must attend the full five-day, in-person Resilience Residential from July 31 to August 4, 2026.

A core part of the commitment involves co-leading in-person Resilience Circles with 16-20 young people in their community. This requires dedicating 5-6 hours per week to prepare and facilitate these weekly sessions over an eight-week period. Fellows will also engage in weekly preparation and reporting, submitting feedback and data after each session, and touching base with The Resilience Project team for about 30 minutes weekly. Monthly check-ins are scheduled through community calls to share updates, troubleshoot challenges, and foster collective growth. Finally, participants will meet with their assigned mentor for one hour each month.

Application Deadline and Next Steps

The application deadline for the 2026 Resilience Fellowship is May 31, 2026. Interested pairs are encouraged to visit the official webpage for the Resilience Fellowship to learn more about the program and access the application portal. This is a unique opportunity for East African changemakers to deepen their impact and personal resilience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main goal of the Resilience Fellowship?

The fellowship aims to develop emotionally resilient communities and empower young leaders through intensive training, personal growth, and community work.

Who is eligible to apply for the Resilience Fellowship?

Applicants must be between 18 and 28 years old, live in Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, or Tanzania, and apply as a pair with a strong working relationship.

What are the key commitments for fellows?

Fellows must attend a five-day residential program, complete online training, co-lead weekly community Resilience Circles for eight weeks, and participate in regular check-ins and reporting.