The Professional Fellows Program on Inclusive Civic Engagement

Professional Fellowships @Fellowships posted 3 weeks ago

Job Description


The Professional Fellows Program on Inclusive Civic Engagement is a fully funded, five-week exchange initiative sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. It is designed for mid-career disability rights professionals from Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Ethiopia. The program aims to foster inclusive civic engagement by facilitating the exchange of best practices and the development of sustainable projects that promote the rights and participation of people with disabilities.

Role Description:
Fellows engage in a comprehensive program that includes:

  • Virtual Pre-Departure Orientation: Preparing for the U.S. experience and developing a follow-on project proposal.

  • Fellowship Placement: A four-week placement with a U.S. host organization to gain hands-on experience.

  • Weekly Seminars: Virtual sessions focusing on civic engagement strategies and peer learning.

  • Professional Fellows Congress: A four-day conference in Washington, D.C., bringing together over 170 fellows from around the world.

  • Follow-On Project: Implementation of a community-based project upon returning home, with potential support from U.S. hosts.

  • Application Cycle: Annually

What You’ll Need:

  • Age between 25 and 40 at the start of the program.

  • Citizen and resident of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, or Ethiopia.

  • Proficiency in spoken and written English.

  • Minimum of two years of professional experience in disability rights or related fields.

  • Eligibility for a U.S. J-1 visa.

Preferred or Required Qualifications:

  • Demonstrated commitment to promoting disability rights and inclusive civic engagement.

  • Ability to develop and implement a follow-on project without additional external funding.

Benefits and Perks:

  • Round-trip travel between home country and the U.S.

  • Fellowship-related travel within the U.S.

  • Accident and health insurance during the program.

  • Living accommodations and a stipend to cover meals, local transportation, and incidental expenses.

  • Cultural allowance for books and cultural events.

  • Support for disability-related arrangements, if needed.

  • Provision of an internet hotspot for connectivity.

Where and How You Can Apply:

  • Applications are submitted online through the official program website.

  • Required materials include a resume, personal statement, and a description of the proposed follow-on project.

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