AWeCCA, in partnership with global animal welfare organizations, is proud to announce the Youth Leadership Scholarship 2026 — a fully funded leadership development program for young animal welfare advocates from across Africa.
This prestigious scholarship is designed to identify, nurture, and empower the next generation of animal welfare leaders. Selected scholars will participate in an intensive 8-month program combining virtual learning, in-person retreats, mentorship, and hands-on project implementation.
— David Omondi, 2025 Scholar, Kenya
Program Components: Scholars will receive leadership training covering advocacy, communication, project management, and fundraising, mentorship from experienced animal welfare professionals, networking opportunities with fellow advocates across Africa, a seed grant to implement a community animal welfare project, and access to AWeCCA's partner network and resources.
Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old, a citizen of any African country, actively involved or passionate about animal welfare in their community, have demonstrated leadership potential or community organizing experience, and be committed to completing the full 8-month program.
How to Apply: Submit your completed application form, a current CV or resume, a personal statement (maximum 1,000 words) explaining your passion for animal welfare and leadership vision, two letters of recommendation (one academic and one community-based), and a short video (2-3 minutes) introducing yourself and your animal welfare work.
Important Dates: Application Deadline: August 15, 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed in September 2026. Selected scholars will be announced in October 2026. The program begins in November 2026 with a virtual orientation, followed by an in-person leadership retreat in January 2027.
For questions about the scholarship, contact scholars@AWeCCA.org with the subject line "Youth Leadership Scholarship Inquiry".