The Global Citizen Fellowship Program, powered by BeyGOOD, is in the final year of its four-year run and we’re looking for progressive African youth who want to change the world to be a part of the program, with applications open from now until April 29, 2022. 

Originally announced by Tyler Perry and Ivy McGregor at Global Citizen Festival: Mandela 100 on Dec. 2, 2018, the Global Citizen Fellowship Program powered by BeyGOOD is an in-depth work experience opportunity aimed at skills development and empowering African youth. 

Addressing more than 60,000 Global Citizens at FNB Stadium during the Mandela 100 festival, Perry said his stay in South Africa had revealed to him the true essence of young people in the country: they are tenacious, determined, and eager to change society for the better. “You have inspired me,” he said, adding, “I have seen first-hand the amazing potential of all of South Africa’s young people.”

The program is funded by Tyler Perry through BeyGOOD. BeyGOOD, a division of Parkwood Entertainment, is a Global Citizen partner.

“When we invest in skills and opportunity, anything is possible,” said Ivy McGregor, the director of philanthropy and corporate relations for Parkwood Entertainment, at Global Citizen Festival: Mandela 100.

What does the Fellowship involve? 

The program unearths the remarkable potential of up to 15 young people in South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya — with the fellowship launching for the first time in Kenya in 2022 — through a paid, year-long fellowship aligned with one of Global Citizen’s four pillars of activity: creative, policy and campaigns, rewards, and marketing.

The curriculum is designed to equip fellows with the skills and tools they need to thrive — not only during their time with Global Citizen, but also in any future endeavors.

The fellows are trained on using digital technology for social change, creating impactful storytelling that shifts attitudes, the importance of building lasting professional relationships, and the role of innovation in a constantly changing world.

The fellowship has a five-phase curriculum with interactive modules that focus on leadership, advocacy, international development, global citizenship, and work readiness. These modules are delivered by experts across a range of relevant fields through master classes, experiential learning, mentorship, and learning trips.

Each fellow will receive a work placement within the Global Citizen Africa team — which is based in South Africa and in Nigeria  — where they will have hands-on training through real experience.

Finally, fellows will be provided with the skills and resources to help them secure work beyond their time with Global Citizen, giving them the best possible chance of achieving their dreams.

Who’s eligible for the Fellowship? 

Global Citizen is looking for young South Africans, Nigerians, and Kenyans between the ages of 21 and 25 who have a matric or secondary school certificate, and are available from July 19, 2022, until June 30, 2023, to join the program.

Applicants must also be able to house themselves in Johannesburg or Lagos for the duration of the program. Kenyan applicants can be based anywhere in the country, and will participate virtually. Applicants should be able to prove that they are active Global Citizens, either through the work they do in their communities or through Global Citizen’s website or app.

How can I apply? 

Applications are open from now until April 29, 2022. To apply, send us a two- to three-minute video answering the following questions: 

• What qualities do you identify with as an active citizen of the world? 
• If selected, what lasting change would you like to achieve through the program?
• What specific socio-economic issues are you taking action on, and why? 

If you prefer writing, you can send us a 500- to 700-word essay answering the same questions.

Email your application to fellowship@globalcitizen.org and include a copy of your ID or passport. You can also send your application using WhatsApp by sending it to +27 64 936 3570.

Keep in mind that applicants from minorities and underrepresented communities are strongly encouraged to apply.

You can read more about the young people who have previously taken part in the fellowship program, the issues they’re passionate about, and about their experiences on the fellowship program here and here.