{"id":66690,"date":"2025-11-13T10:32:00","date_gmt":"2025-11-13T10:32:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/opportunitiesforyouth.org\/?p=66690"},"modified":"2025-11-13T10:32:00","modified_gmt":"2025-11-13T10:32:00","slug":"2026-big-bets-fellowship-africa-empowering-african-leaders-to-change-the-world-fully-funded-by-the-rockefeller-foundation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/opportunitiesconnect.com\/?p=66690","title":{"rendered":"2026 Big Bets Fellowship: Africa \u2013 Empowering African Leaders to Change the World (Fully-funded by The Rockefeller Foundation)"},"content":{"rendered":"<p data-start=\"399\" data-end=\"441\"><strong data-start=\"399\" data-end=\"439\">Who says you can\u2019t change the world?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"443\" data-end=\"760\">The <strong data-start=\"447\" data-end=\"483\">Big Bets Fellowship: Africa 2026<\/strong>, powered by <strong data-start=\"496\" data-end=\"526\">The Rockefeller Foundation<\/strong>, is a five-month leadership development program for visionary African leaders who are designing bold, systemic solutions to today\u2019s toughest challenges \u2013 from climate change and food systems to public health and economic opportunity.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"762\" data-end=\"842\">There is <strong data-start=\"771\" data-end=\"813\">no fee, donation, or purchase required<\/strong> to apply for the Fellowship.<\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"849\" data-end=\"906\">About the Big Bets Community, Fellowships &amp; Convenings<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"908\" data-end=\"1009\">At The Rockefeller Foundation, the belief is simple: you can make the world better with <strong data-start=\"996\" data-end=\"1008\">big bets<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1011\" data-end=\"1124\">The <strong data-start=\"1015\" data-end=\"1037\">Big Bets Community<\/strong> brings together emerging leaders with bold, transformative ideas and connects them to:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1126\" data-end=\"1268\">\n<li data-start=\"1126\" data-end=\"1172\">\n<p data-start=\"1128\" data-end=\"1172\">High-impact <strong data-start=\"1140\" data-end=\"1170\">fellowships and convenings<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1173\" data-end=\"1205\">\n<p data-start=\"1175\" data-end=\"1205\">A dynamic <strong data-start=\"1185\" data-end=\"1203\">peer community<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1206\" data-end=\"1268\">\n<p data-start=\"1208\" data-end=\"1268\">Strategic support to turn big ideas into real-world change<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"1270\" data-end=\"1494\">If you\u2019re passionate about <strong data-start=\"1297\" data-end=\"1325\">combating climate change<\/strong>, <strong data-start=\"1327\" data-end=\"1360\">creating economic opportunity<\/strong>, or <strong data-start=\"1365\" data-end=\"1433\">transforming systems for a more sustainable and inclusive future<\/strong>, this community \u2013 and this Fellowship \u2013 is designed for you.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1496\" data-end=\"1533\"><strong data-start=\"1496\" data-end=\"1527\">Join the Big Bets Community<\/strong> to:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1535\" data-end=\"1738\">\n<li data-start=\"1535\" data-end=\"1595\">\n<p data-start=\"1537\" data-end=\"1595\">Be part of a global network making transformative change<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1596\" data-end=\"1657\">\n<p data-start=\"1598\" data-end=\"1657\">Receive <strong data-start=\"1606\" data-end=\"1629\">exclusive resources<\/strong> to develop your \u201cbig bet\u201d<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1658\" data-end=\"1738\">\n<p data-start=\"1660\" data-end=\"1738\">Get information on <strong data-start=\"1679\" data-end=\"1695\">how to apply<\/strong> for the 2026 Big Bets Fellowship: Africa<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"1740\" data-end=\"1882\">Membership is <strong data-start=\"1754\" data-end=\"1762\">free<\/strong>, and community members receive a monthly newsletter with resources, opportunities, and spotlights on inspiring leaders.<\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"1889\" data-end=\"1937\">What Is the 2026 Big Bets Fellowship: Africa?<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"1939\" data-end=\"2090\">The <strong data-start=\"1943\" data-end=\"1974\">Big Bets Fellowship: Africa<\/strong> is a <strong data-start=\"1980\" data-end=\"2030\">5-month, hybrid leadership development program<\/strong> that equips a selected cohort of African changemakers with:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"2092\" data-end=\"2391\">\n<li data-start=\"2092\" data-end=\"2148\">\n<p data-start=\"2094\" data-end=\"2148\">A <strong data-start=\"2096\" data-end=\"2116\">Big Bets Toolkit<\/strong> to sharpen strategic thinking<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2149\" data-end=\"2219\">\n<p data-start=\"2151\" data-end=\"2219\">Practical leadership skills to drive <strong data-start=\"2188\" data-end=\"2217\">systemic, scalable impact<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2220\" data-end=\"2276\">\n<p data-start=\"2222\" data-end=\"2276\">Access to a powerful <strong data-start=\"2243\" data-end=\"2274\">regional and global network<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2277\" data-end=\"2391\">\n<p data-start=\"2279\" data-end=\"2391\">A <strong data-start=\"2281\" data-end=\"2303\">USD $5,000 stipend<\/strong> (subject to applicable taxes and withholding) to support participation in the program<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"2393\" data-end=\"2587\">In 2026, the Fellowship will focus on solutions with impact in <strong data-start=\"2456\" data-end=\"2483\">countries across Africa<\/strong>, centering projects that benefit underserved communities and accelerate progress for people and planet.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"2589\" data-end=\"2642\">The program will select approximately <strong data-start=\"2627\" data-end=\"2641\">10 fellows<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"2649\" data-end=\"2684\">Program Structure &amp; Dates (2026)<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"2686\" data-end=\"2794\">The Fellowship is delivered over <strong data-start=\"2719\" data-end=\"2745\">approximately 20 weeks<\/strong> via a blend of virtual and in-person activities:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"2796\" data-end=\"3067\">\n<li data-start=\"2796\" data-end=\"2840\">\n<p data-start=\"2798\" data-end=\"2840\"><strong data-start=\"2798\" data-end=\"2818\">Onboarding Call:<\/strong> Week of May 4, 2026<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2841\" data-end=\"2921\">\n<p data-start=\"2843\" data-end=\"2921\"><strong data-start=\"2843\" data-end=\"2867\">Virtual Programming:<\/strong> Weekly 90-minute online sessions from May to August<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2922\" data-end=\"3027\">\n<p data-start=\"2924\" data-end=\"3027\"><strong data-start=\"2924\" data-end=\"2948\">In-Person Convening:<\/strong> Week of August 23, 2026, at <strong data-start=\"2977\" data-end=\"3025\">The Rockefeller Foundation\u2019s Bellagio Center<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3028\" data-end=\"3067\">\n<p data-start=\"3030\" data-end=\"3067\"><strong data-start=\"3030\" data-end=\"3055\">Amplification Moment:<\/strong> Fall 2026<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"3069\" data-end=\"3323\">Travel expenses for the in-person convening are covered by The Rockefeller Foundation. Fellows are responsible for securing their own visa(s); most reasonable visa-related expenses will be supported, but failure to obtain a visa may impact participation.<\/p>\n<blockquote data-start=\"3325\" data-end=\"3579\">\n<p data-start=\"3327\" data-end=\"3579\"><strong data-start=\"3327\" data-end=\"3336\">Note:<\/strong> The Fellowship does <em data-start=\"3357\" data-end=\"3362\">not<\/em> include a project implementation grant. Instead, it provides a stipend, strategic guidance, leadership development, visibility, and powerful networks to help set your solution on a <strong data-start=\"3544\" data-end=\"3578\">trajectory for outsized impact<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<h2 data-start=\"3586\" data-end=\"3609\">What Fellows Receive<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"3611\" data-end=\"3646\">Selected fellows will benefit from:<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"3648\" data-end=\"3690\">1. Integrative Leadership Curriculum<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"3691\" data-end=\"3733\">An applied learning experience focused on:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"3735\" data-end=\"3868\">\n<li data-start=\"3735\" data-end=\"3776\">\n<p data-start=\"3737\" data-end=\"3776\">Theory of change and systems thinking<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3777\" data-end=\"3826\">\n<p data-start=\"3779\" data-end=\"3826\">Strategic partnerships and coalition-building<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3827\" data-end=\"3868\">\n<p data-start=\"3829\" data-end=\"3868\">Storytelling and influence for impact<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 data-start=\"3870\" data-end=\"3898\">2. Impact Acceleration<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"3899\" data-end=\"3950\">Dedicated time with peers, mentors, and experts to:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"3952\" data-end=\"4091\">\n<li data-start=\"3952\" data-end=\"3992\">\n<p data-start=\"3954\" data-end=\"3992\">Refine and stress-test your strategy<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3993\" data-end=\"4039\">\n<p data-start=\"3995\" data-end=\"4039\">Strengthen your project\u2019s pathway to scale<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"4040\" data-end=\"4091\">\n<p data-start=\"4042\" data-end=\"4091\">Navigate ecosystem challenges and opportunities<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 data-start=\"4093\" data-end=\"4120\">3. Cohort &amp; Community<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4121\" data-end=\"4274\">Join a regional cohort of <strong data-start=\"4147\" data-end=\"4188\">10 innovators, thinkers, and builders<\/strong> plus a growing global network of leaders from previous Big Bets and Bellagio cohorts.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"4276\" data-end=\"4299\">4. Network Access<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4300\" data-end=\"4384\">Exclusive access to The Rockefeller Foundation\u2019s broader network, which may include:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"4386\" data-end=\"4538\">\n<li data-start=\"4386\" data-end=\"4417\">\n<p data-start=\"4388\" data-end=\"4417\">Post-fellowship programming<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"4418\" data-end=\"4450\">\n<p data-start=\"4420\" data-end=\"4450\">Convenings and consultations<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"4451\" data-end=\"4480\">\n<p data-start=\"4453\" data-end=\"4480\">Facilitated introductions<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"4481\" data-end=\"4538\">\n<p data-start=\"4483\" data-end=\"4538\">Speaking or showcasing opportunities at global events<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 data-start=\"4540\" data-end=\"4564\">5. Global Platform<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4565\" data-end=\"4726\">Visibility for your work through curated partner events and amplification moments, positioning your solution as a powerful example of <strong data-start=\"4699\" data-end=\"4725\">African-led innovation<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"4728\" data-end=\"4843\">As Nathalia Arcencio De Marchi dos Santos, Manager of Convenings and Networks at The Rockefeller Foundation, notes:<\/p>\n<blockquote data-start=\"4845\" data-end=\"4990\">\n<p data-start=\"4847\" data-end=\"4990\">\u201cThe work of these fellows flips the script: the Global South is not just a hotspot for challenges, but a powerhouse for innovative solutions.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<h2 data-start=\"4997\" data-end=\"5020\">Why Focus on Africa?<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"5022\" data-end=\"5196\">Africa is at a defining moment. With a young, rapidly growing population and immense entrepreneurial energy, the continent is a <strong data-start=\"5150\" data-end=\"5167\">global engine<\/strong> for innovation and progress.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"5198\" data-end=\"5267\">The 2026 Big Bets Fellowship: Africa aims to support leaders who are:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"5269\" data-end=\"5469\">\n<li data-start=\"5269\" data-end=\"5309\">\n<p data-start=\"5271\" data-end=\"5309\">Reimagining systems and institutions<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"5310\" data-end=\"5353\">\n<p data-start=\"5312\" data-end=\"5353\">Building resilient, inclusive economies<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"5354\" data-end=\"5469\">\n<p data-start=\"5356\" data-end=\"5469\">Designing solutions that benefit communities most affected by inequality, climate risks, and systemic exclusion<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"5471\" data-end=\"5598\">By investing in African leadership now, the Fellowship helps ensure that growth is <strong data-start=\"5554\" data-end=\"5597\">equitable, sustainable, and locally led<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"5605\" data-end=\"5652\">Priority Project Areas: What Is a \u201cBig Bet\u201d?<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"5654\" data-end=\"5772\">A <strong data-start=\"5656\" data-end=\"5667\">Big Bet<\/strong> is a bold, concerted effort to <strong data-start=\"5699\" data-end=\"5722\">fundamentally solve<\/strong> a problem\u2014not just make incremental improvements.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"5774\" data-end=\"5945\">Projects may take many forms\u2014social innovations, policy experiments, community-based initiatives, or technology-driven solutions\u2014but must clearly demonstrate potential to:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"5947\" data-end=\"6435\">\n<li data-start=\"5947\" data-end=\"6006\">\n<p data-start=\"5949\" data-end=\"6006\"><strong data-start=\"5949\" data-end=\"6004\">Strengthen regional and international collaboration<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"6007\" data-end=\"6084\">\n<p data-start=\"6009\" data-end=\"6084\"><strong data-start=\"6009\" data-end=\"6054\">Accelerate decentralized renewable energy<\/strong> for underserved communities<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"6085\" data-end=\"6134\">\n<p data-start=\"6087\" data-end=\"6134\"><strong data-start=\"6087\" data-end=\"6132\">Advance public health and heat resilience<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"6135\" data-end=\"6250\">\n<p data-start=\"6137\" data-end=\"6250\"><strong data-start=\"6137\" data-end=\"6189\">Transform food systems and enhance food security<\/strong> (including school meals or support to smallholder farmers)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"6251\" data-end=\"6330\">\n<p data-start=\"6253\" data-end=\"6330\"><strong data-start=\"6253\" data-end=\"6293\">Strengthen markets and trade systems<\/strong> that benefit excluded participants<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"6331\" data-end=\"6435\">\n<p data-start=\"6333\" data-end=\"6435\"><strong data-start=\"6333\" data-end=\"6397\">Enable impact through AI, data access, and policy innovation<\/strong> in support of African-led solutions<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"6437\" data-end=\"6584\">Projects must have a <strong data-start=\"6458\" data-end=\"6480\">charitable purpose<\/strong>, demonstrate <strong data-start=\"6494\" data-end=\"6531\">impact potential within 5\u20137 years<\/strong>, and show <strong data-start=\"6542\" data-end=\"6583\">early signs of traction and viability<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"6591\" data-end=\"6645\">Who Should Apply? \u2013 Eligibility &amp; Candidate Profile<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"6647\" data-end=\"6679\">To be eligible, applicants must:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"6681\" data-end=\"7266\">\n<li data-start=\"6681\" data-end=\"6709\">\n<p data-start=\"6683\" data-end=\"6709\">Be <strong data-start=\"6686\" data-end=\"6707\">18 years or older<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"6710\" data-end=\"6784\">\n<p data-start=\"6712\" data-end=\"6784\">Have <strong data-start=\"6717\" data-end=\"6734\">5 to 15 years<\/strong> of relevant work experience in the project area<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"6785\" data-end=\"6953\">\n<p data-start=\"6787\" data-end=\"6953\">Be <strong data-start=\"6790\" data-end=\"6815\">conversant in English<\/strong> (approximately B1 level or higher on the CEFR) \u2013 able to follow discussions, participate in sessions, and clearly communicate your work<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"6954\" data-end=\"7029\">\n<p data-start=\"6956\" data-end=\"7029\">Be able to <strong data-start=\"6967\" data-end=\"6990\">legally participate<\/strong> under the laws of their jurisdiction<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"7030\" data-end=\"7142\">\n<p data-start=\"7032\" data-end=\"7142\">Hold or maintain all necessary rights and permissions related to their project and its intellectual property<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"7143\" data-end=\"7266\">\n<p data-start=\"7145\" data-end=\"7266\">Be a <strong data-start=\"7150\" data-end=\"7186\">member of the Big Bets Community<\/strong> (membership is required to receive the eligibility form and application link)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"7268\" data-end=\"7293\">Applicants <strong data-start=\"7279\" data-end=\"7289\">cannot<\/strong> be:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"7295\" data-end=\"7532\">\n<li data-start=\"7295\" data-end=\"7382\">\n<p data-start=\"7297\" data-end=\"7382\">Employees, officers, or directors of The Rockefeller Foundation (or its affiliates)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"7383\" data-end=\"7436\">\n<p data-start=\"7385\" data-end=\"7436\">Official Judges involved in the selection process<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"7437\" data-end=\"7532\">\n<p data-start=\"7439\" data-end=\"7532\">Individuals in sanctioned or embargoed countries\/regions as defined by relevant authorities<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 data-start=\"7534\" data-end=\"7569\">Ideal Candidate Characteristics<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"7571\" data-end=\"7603\">Successful candidates typically:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"7605\" data-end=\"8146\">\n<li data-start=\"7605\" data-end=\"7724\">\n<p data-start=\"7607\" data-end=\"7724\">Have deep, ongoing <strong data-start=\"7626\" data-end=\"7649\">regional engagement<\/strong> in Africa (lived experience, professional work, or community leadership)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"7725\" data-end=\"7790\">\n<p data-start=\"7727\" data-end=\"7790\">Demonstrate <strong data-start=\"7739\" data-end=\"7760\">growing influence<\/strong> in their field or ecosystem<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"7791\" data-end=\"7886\">\n<p data-start=\"7793\" data-end=\"7886\">Have a strong <strong data-start=\"7807\" data-end=\"7841\">track record of leading change<\/strong>, mobilizing others, and delivering results<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"7887\" data-end=\"7954\">\n<p data-start=\"7889\" data-end=\"7954\">Show a <strong data-start=\"7896\" data-end=\"7944\">collaborative, curious, and community-driven<\/strong> mindset<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"7955\" data-end=\"8029\">\n<p data-start=\"7957\" data-end=\"8029\">Are excited to <strong data-start=\"7972\" data-end=\"8004\">learn from and contribute to<\/strong> a Fellowship community<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"8030\" data-end=\"8146\">\n<p data-start=\"8032\" data-end=\"8146\">Are at a <strong data-start=\"8041\" data-end=\"8058\">project stage<\/strong> where strategic support and networks can significantly accelerate momentum and impact<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 data-start=\"8153\" data-end=\"8190\">Application Process \u2013 Step by Step<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"8192\" data-end=\"8326\">All applications are sourced from the <strong data-start=\"8230\" data-end=\"8252\">Big Bets Community<\/strong>. Once you join the community, the process typically follows these stages:<\/p>\n<ol data-start=\"8328\" data-end=\"10015\">\n<li data-start=\"8328\" data-end=\"8452\">\n<p data-start=\"8331\" data-end=\"8364\"><strong data-start=\"8331\" data-end=\"8362\">Join the Big Bets Community<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"8368\" data-end=\"8452\">\n<li data-start=\"8368\" data-end=\"8452\">\n<p data-start=\"8370\" data-end=\"8452\">Members who sign up by <strong data-start=\"8393\" data-end=\"8414\">November 29, 2025<\/strong> will receive an <strong data-start=\"8431\" data-end=\"8451\">Eligibility Form<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"8454\" data-end=\"8636\">\n<p data-start=\"8457\" data-end=\"8479\"><strong data-start=\"8457\" data-end=\"8477\">Eligibility Form<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"8483\" data-end=\"8636\">\n<li data-start=\"8483\" data-end=\"8567\">\n<p data-start=\"8485\" data-end=\"8567\">A short survey covering age, years of experience, and project charitable status.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"8571\" data-end=\"8636\">\n<p data-start=\"8573\" data-end=\"8636\">Applicants who meet the criteria are invited to the next stage.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"8638\" data-end=\"8953\">\n<p data-start=\"8641\" data-end=\"8736\"><strong data-start=\"8641\" data-end=\"8665\">Pre-Application Form<\/strong><br data-start=\"8665\" data-end=\"8668\" \/>Sent after confirming eligibility. You\u2019ll be asked to describe:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"8740\" data-end=\"8953\">\n<li data-start=\"8740\" data-end=\"8772\">\n<p data-start=\"8742\" data-end=\"8772\">Your project and its purpose<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"8776\" data-end=\"8811\">\n<p data-start=\"8778\" data-end=\"8811\">Why it qualifies as a \u201cBig Bet\u201d<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"8815\" data-end=\"8870\">\n<p data-start=\"8817\" data-end=\"8870\">Its impact in Africa and on underserved communities<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"8874\" data-end=\"8953\">\n<p data-start=\"8876\" data-end=\"8953\">Stage, traction, thematic focus, and your role\/organization (if applicable)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"8955\" data-end=\"9403\">\n<p data-start=\"8958\" data-end=\"9114\"><strong data-start=\"8958\" data-end=\"8983\">Full Application Form<\/strong><br data-start=\"8983\" data-end=\"8986\" \/>Shortlisted candidates (finalists) are invited to complete a more detailed application in <strong data-start=\"9079\" data-end=\"9101\">early January 2026<\/strong>, covering:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"9118\" data-end=\"9403\">\n<li data-start=\"9118\" data-end=\"9175\">\n<p data-start=\"9120\" data-end=\"9175\">Professional background and experience driving impact<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"9179\" data-end=\"9245\">\n<p data-start=\"9181\" data-end=\"9245\">Preparedness and motivation to deliver on your project\u2019s goals<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"9249\" data-end=\"9319\">\n<p data-start=\"9251\" data-end=\"9319\">Project\u2019s ecosystem context, challenges, and vision for the future<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"9323\" data-end=\"9403\">\n<p data-start=\"9325\" data-end=\"9403\">Resource plan and alignment with the Big Bets mindset and Fellowship program<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"9405\" data-end=\"9627\">\n<p data-start=\"9408\" data-end=\"9430\"><strong data-start=\"9408\" data-end=\"9428\">Reference Letter<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"9434\" data-end=\"9627\">\n<li data-start=\"9434\" data-end=\"9627\">\n<p data-start=\"9436\" data-end=\"9627\">Finalists must submit a <strong data-start=\"9460\" data-end=\"9478\">Reference Form<\/strong> from a recognized expert in their field with <strong data-start=\"9524\" data-end=\"9568\">at least 15 years of relevant experience<\/strong>, speaking to the applicant\u2019s qualifications and potential.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"9629\" data-end=\"9814\">\n<p data-start=\"9632\" data-end=\"9667\"><strong data-start=\"9632\" data-end=\"9665\">Online Interview (in English)<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"9671\" data-end=\"9814\">\n<li data-start=\"9671\" data-end=\"9814\">\n<p data-start=\"9673\" data-end=\"9814\">Finalists are invited to an interview to assess program and project fit, alignment with Fellowship goals, and readiness to participate fully.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"9816\" data-end=\"10015\">\n<p data-start=\"9819\" data-end=\"9840\"><strong data-start=\"9819\" data-end=\"9838\">Final Selection<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"9844\" data-end=\"10015\">\n<li data-start=\"9844\" data-end=\"9938\">\n<p data-start=\"9846\" data-end=\"9938\">The Rockefeller Foundation, with the support of Judges and experts, makes final decisions.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"9942\" data-end=\"10015\">\n<p data-start=\"9944\" data-end=\"10015\">Approximately <strong data-start=\"9958\" data-end=\"9972\">10 fellows<\/strong> will be selected and notified via email.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p data-start=\"10017\" data-end=\"10149\">All application materials must be submitted <strong data-start=\"10061\" data-end=\"10071\">online<\/strong> in English via the specified platform. Submissions by email are not accepted.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"10151\" data-end=\"10325\">For full legal details, including privacy, IP, and liability, applicants should review the <strong data-start=\"10242\" data-end=\"10301\">official Big Bets Fellowship: Africa <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rockefellerfoundation.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/2026_Big-Bets-Fellowship_Africa_Terms-and-Conditions.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Terms &amp; Conditions<\/a><\/strong> on the program website.<\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"10332\" data-end=\"10356\">Key Dates (2025\u20132026)<\/h2>\n<ul data-start=\"10358\" data-end=\"10717\">\n<li data-start=\"10358\" data-end=\"10403\">\n<p data-start=\"10360\" data-end=\"10403\"><strong data-start=\"10360\" data-end=\"10383\">Application Launch:<\/strong> November 10, 2025<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"10404\" data-end=\"10468\">\n<p data-start=\"10406\" data-end=\"10468\"><strong data-start=\"10406\" data-end=\"10449\">Eligibility &amp; Pre-Application Deadline:<\/strong> December 1, 2025<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"10469\" data-end=\"10530\">\n<p data-start=\"10471\" data-end=\"10530\"><strong data-start=\"10471\" data-end=\"10509\">Full Application Invitations Sent:<\/strong> Early January 2026<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"10531\" data-end=\"10600\">\n<p data-start=\"10533\" data-end=\"10600\"><strong data-start=\"10533\" data-end=\"10580\">Full Application &amp; Reference Form Deadline:<\/strong> Late January 2026<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"10601\" data-end=\"10633\">\n<p data-start=\"10603\" data-end=\"10633\"><strong data-start=\"10603\" data-end=\"10618\">Interviews:<\/strong> January 2026<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"10634\" data-end=\"10679\">\n<p data-start=\"10636\" data-end=\"10679\"><strong data-start=\"10636\" data-end=\"10658\">Fellows Announced:<\/strong> Late February 2026<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"10680\" data-end=\"10717\">\n<p data-start=\"10682\" data-end=\"10717\"><strong data-start=\"10682\" data-end=\"10700\">Program Start:<\/strong> Early May 2026<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 data-start=\"10724\" data-end=\"10775\">Join the Big Bets Community &amp; Learn How to Apply<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"10777\" data-end=\"10784\">If you:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"10786\" data-end=\"10972\">\n<li data-start=\"10786\" data-end=\"10841\">\n<p data-start=\"10788\" data-end=\"10841\">Are committed to solving tough challenges in Africa<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"10842\" data-end=\"10894\">\n<p data-start=\"10844\" data-end=\"10894\">Have a bold, charitable, system-changing project<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"10895\" data-end=\"10972\">\n<p data-start=\"10897\" data-end=\"10972\">Want to accelerate your leadership and impact within a powerful community<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"10974\" data-end=\"11062\">\u2026then the <strong data-start=\"10984\" data-end=\"11020\">Big Bets Fellowship: Africa 2026<\/strong> may be the next big step in your journey.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"11064\" data-end=\"11112\">\ud83d\udc49 <strong data-start=\"11067\" data-end=\"11098\">Join the Big Bets Community<\/strong> to receive:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"11113\" data-end=\"11265\">\n<li data-start=\"11113\" data-end=\"11161\">\n<p data-start=\"11115\" data-end=\"11161\">Monthly newsletters with exclusive resources<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"11162\" data-end=\"11189\">\n<p data-start=\"11164\" data-end=\"11189\">Details on how to apply<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"11190\" data-end=\"11265\">\n<p data-start=\"11192\" data-end=\"11265\">Updates on fellowships, convenings, and spotlights on inspiring leaders<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"11267\" data-end=\"11404\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rockefellerfoundation.org\/fellowships-convenings\/big-bets-fellowships\/africa\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\ud83d\udc49 <strong data-start=\"11270\" data-end=\"11327\">Learn more about the 2026 Big Bets Fellowship: Africa<\/strong> and explore the full <strong data-start=\"11349\" data-end=\"11371\">Terms &amp; Conditions<\/strong> on the official program website.<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Who says you can\u2019t change the world? The Big Bets Fellowship: Africa 2026, powered by The Rockefeller Foundation, is a five-month leadership development program for visionary African leaders who are designing bold, systemic solutions to today\u2019s toughest challenges \u2013 from climate change and food systems to public health and economic opportunity. There is no fee,&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":66693,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[22,44,38,45],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-66690","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","6":"hentry","7":"category-africa","8":"category-awards","9":"category-fellowship","10":"category-grants","11":"article","12":"","14":"has-excerpt","15":"has-avatar","16":"has-author","17":"has-nickname","18":"has-date","19":"has-comment-count","20":"has-category-meta","21":"has-read-more","22":"has-title","23":"has-post-media","24":"thumbnail-","25":"has-tfm-share-icons"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/opportunitiesconnect.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/66690","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/opportunitiesconnect.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/opportunitiesconnect.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/opportunitiesconnect.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/opportunitiesconnect.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=66690"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/opportunitiesconnect.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/66690\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/opportunitiesconnect.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/opportunitiesconnect.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=66690"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/opportunitiesconnect.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=66690"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/opportunitiesconnect.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=66690"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}