Are you a young African with a deep passion for revolutionizing the agrifood systems on the continent? An incredible opportunity awaits you to become a catalyst for change in one of Africa’s most crucial sectors. The 2025 Young Impact Associates (YIA) Fellowship in Agrifood Systems is now accepting applications, offering a unique year-long leadership journey that will shape the future generation of African experts and leaders focused on making a positive impact.
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This transformative program, scheduled to run from mid-June 2025 to the end of May 2026, is led by a consortium of organizations dedicated to research, policy, and development. Partners include CIFOR-ICRAF, African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD), the African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP), and Akademiya2063, with support from the Mastercard Foundation. The YIA Fellowship aims to equip ambitious individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to drive meaningful change in Africa’s agrifood sector.
Selected fellows will receive a monthly stipend for the duration of the program, allowing them to fully focus on their learning and contributions without financial worries. Beyond financial support, participants will have access to valuable resources, training, and mentorship tailored to their needs. Upon completion, fellows will join the global Mastercard Foundation alumni network, connecting them with like-minded changemakers committed to Africa’s development.
This fellowship is seeking young leaders from Ghana, Kenya, and Uganda who are currently based in Africa and ready to embark on a transformative journey. Applicants should be between 18 and 35 years old, coming from diverse backgrounds such as students, professionals, self-employed individuals, or those seeking new opportunities. What matters most is a strong commitment to making a positive difference. Proficiency in English and holding a diploma or bachelor’s degree in fields like agriculture, economics, data science, social sciences, climate studies, international development, or related disciplines are preferred.
Beyond qualifications, the YIA Fellowship values passion, especially for data-driven solutions and impact measurement. If you are eager to learn, motivated to use data for social and environmental change, and willing to dedicate yourself to personal growth, this fellowship could be the next step in your journey.
More than just a program, this fellowship serves as a platform for emerging leaders to drive innovation within Africa’s food systems and shape a sustainable and equitable future. If this resonates with you, seize the opportunity to be part of Africa’s transformation story by applying now.
Eligible Countries:
The 2025 YIA Fellowship is open to individuals from Ghana, Kenya, and Uganda currently residing in Africa.
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Program Benefits:
Successful applicants to the 2025 YIA Fellowship will receive a monthly stipend for the entire 12-month duration, enabling them to fully dedicate their time and energy to the program without financial strain. In addition to financial support, fellows will gain access to non-monetary benefits such as expert mentorship, skills development, and hands-on training in impact measurement, all of which will be outlined at the start of the fellowship. Upon completing the program, fellows will also become part of the prestigious Mastercard Foundation alumni network, connecting them to a vibrant global community of changemakers and leaders passionate about driving positive change across Africa.
Application Closing Date: 30th April, 2025
