Understanding the Resilience Fellowship 2026

The Resilience Fellowship is a nine-month program designed for young changemakers in East Africa. It focuses on personal growth, leadership, and building community resilience. This fellowship offers a unique opportunity for individuals aged 18-28 to develop skills, heal, and connect with a supportive network. The program emphasizes a high level of commitment, requiring participants to engage fully in training, mentorship, and community work.

Program Overview

The Resilience Fellowship is in its fifth year and is specifically recruiting participants from Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya. It is a program created by youth, for youth, aiming to empower participants through a structured journey. The fellowship is designed for those ready to invest significant time and energy into their personal development and their communities.

Key Benefits for Fellows

Selected fellows can expect a range of valuable experiences and resources. These benefits are designed to foster well-being, skill development, and lasting connections.

Restoration and Healing

A significant part of the fellowship includes a five-day residential retreat focused on restoration in nature. This retreat provides a space for personal healing, meaningful conversations, and great food.

Skill Development

Participants will gain new skills in areas such as facilitation, leadership, project management, and community care. These abilities are essential for effective changemaking.

Mental Health Support

The fellowship includes certification as a Mental Health First Aider. This training equips fellows to support themselves and others in their communities.

Emotional Well-being

A core aim of the program is to reduce climate anxiety and improve emotional well-being. Fellows will also work on strengthening community bonds.

Mentorship and Networking

Fellows receive eight months of expert intergenerational mentorship. This provides guidance and support throughout the program. Additionally, the fellowship fosters lifelong friendships and a powerful support network among participants.

Financial Support

A stipend of KES 40,000 is provided to fellows, along with covered travel expenses. This support helps participants engage fully in the program without financial strain.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the Resilience Fellowship, applicants must meet specific criteria. These requirements ensure that participants are well-suited for the program’s demands and goals.

Age and Location

Applicants must be between 18 and 28 years old and based in Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, or Tanzania.

Availability and Commitment

A crucial requirement is the availability to commit time from July 2026 to March 2027. This period involves training, facilitation, mentorship, and reporting.

Partnership

The fellowship requires applicants to apply as a pair. These pre-formed pairs should already work well together, as they will be trained to co-lead Resilience Circles in their local communities.

Passion and Skills

Applicants should demonstrate a passion for climate justice and building emotionally resilient communities. They should also be good listeners, compassionate leaders-in-the-making, and eager to support others. An openness to exploring climate anxiety, burnout, and emotional well-being is also important. Proficiency in English is required.

Fellow Commitments

Participation in the Resilience Fellowship involves a significant commitment to various activities. These responsibilities ensure the program’s objectives are met both individually and collectively.

Training

Fellows must complete a two-day online training course to become Mental Health First Aiders.

Residential Program

Attendance at the five-day, in-person Resilience Residential is mandatory. This event runs from July 31 to August 4, 2026.

Community Facilitation

A core responsibility is co-leading in-person Resilience Circles with 16-20 young people in their community. This involves 5-6 hours per week dedicated to preparation and facilitation over an eight-week period.

Reporting and Check-ins

Fellows are expected to engage in weekly preparation and reporting. This includes submitting feedback and data after each session and weekly check-ins with the TRP team. Monthly community calls are also part of the program for sharing updates and troubleshooting.

Mentorship Meetings

Monthly one-hour meetings with an assigned mentor are required to provide ongoing guidance and support.

Application Process

The application process for the Resilience Fellowship involves several steps. Prospective fellows are advised to prepare their responses carefully.

Application Booklet

Detailed instructions for the application are available in the application booklet, which can be downloaded. It is recommended that applicants prepare all their answers in advance before submitting them through the online form.

Online Submission

Applications must be submitted via an online form. This form requires thoughtful responses to questions about the applicant’s experience, motivations, and commitment.

Frequently Asked Questions