November 27, 2013 – The U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa is pleased to announce that President Obama’s Young African Leaders Initiative continues this year with a new flagship program, the Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders. Registration for the new program begins in December 2013 through an online application available at youngafricanleaders.state.gov.
This program will bring over 500 of the most promising young African leaders to the United States each year, beginning in 2014, for leadership training and mentoring in three major areas: Public Management, Business and Entrepreneurship, and Civic Leadership.
Selection criteria include a proven record of leadership and accomplishment in public service, business and entrepreneurship, or civic engagement; the ability to work cooperatively; strong social and communication skills; and good academic performance. Gender, ethnic, religious and geographic balance will also be considered. Preference will be given to applicants with some university education and to those who show commitment to return to Ethiopia and apply their skills to benefit Ethiopian society.
Eligible Ethiopian young leaders, between the ages of 25 and 35 years, are encouraged to apply online. Applicants must be proficient in spoken and written English. Persons holding U.S. citizenship or permanent residency are not eligible. To apply, you need to include information on professional and academic experiences, including educational background; honors and awards received; and extracurricular and volunteer activities. A résumé with dated educational and professional background and personal information (name, address, phone, email, country of citizenship) are also required.
Application forms will be available online in early December 2013. For more information, visit the website at youngafricanleaders.state.gov.