Maseru Lesotho, June 21, 2021: Launched in 2014, the Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders is the flagship program of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) and embodies the U.S. commitment to invest in the future of Africa. YALI was created in 2010 and supports young Africans as they spur economic growth and prosperity, strengthen democratic governance, and enhance peace and security across Africa. Since 2014, nearly 4,400 young leaders from every country in Sub-Saharan Africa have participated in the Mandela Washington Fellowship.
Due to the global COVID-19 pandemic and with the health, safety, and well-being of Fellows and Partners as the highest priority, the U.S. Department of State is planning a virtual Fellowship for 2021. While remaining in their home countries, Fellows will participate in virtual Leadership Institutes between June 21 and July 30, which will include leadership training, mentoring, and professional development.
U.S. Embassy Maseru is proud to announce that the following leaders from across the Mountain Kingdom will participate in the 2021 Mandela Washington Fellowship: Kamohelo Makateng, Lerato Thotolo, Liphapang Monesa, Maletsie Letsie, Maliengoane Ramalebo, Mamello Makhele, Matšeliso ‘Mota, Poelo Monyau, Puleng Maluleka, Relebohile Sera, Sibusiso Adontši and Teboho Seboka.
After their Leadership Institutes, the Fellows will participate in a virtual Summit. Additionally, up to 100 competitively selected Fellows will virtually engage in professional development with U.S. organizations in the public, private, or non-profit sector. Fellows can participate in Alumni Programming after their Fellowships to further build their professional skills and networks.
The Mandela Washington Fellowship is a program of the U.S. Department of State with funding provided by the U.S. Government and administered by IREX. For more information about the Mandela Washington Fellowship, visit mandelawashingtonfellowship.org.