Are you a social entrepreneur working to advance human rights and gender justice? Do you want structured mentorship, global connections, and the opportunity to compete for funding to scale your impact?
The Global Fellows in Courage (GFiC) Fellowship 2026 is now accepting applications for its prestigious 6-month virtual accelerator program designed for emerging leaders aged 25–35 who are driving bold, courageous social change across the world.
With a global cohort of 45 Fellows, expert coaching, structured curriculum, and eligibility to compete for project grants upon completion, the GFiC Fellowship equips leaders with the knowledge, networks, and resources to amplify their impact.
Application Deadline: April 1, 2026
Fellowship Period: July – December 2026
What Is the Global Fellows in Courage (GFiC) Fellowship?
The Global Fellows in Courage Fellowship is a structured, Zoom-based accelerator program created to strengthen the effectiveness of young human rights advocates and gender justice leaders.
The program is built on the belief that knowledge, networks, and access to resources are critical to advancing transformative social change.
Since launching in 2024, GFiC has accelerated the work of 57 human rights leaders. In 2026, the organization will recruit 45 new Fellows from around the world.
Program Structure and Learning Model
The 6-month accelerator combines curriculum, live sessions, mentorship, coaching, and project development.
Core Components of the Fellowship
1. Concepts (Curriculum & Live Learning)
Fellows:
-
Access a structured online curriculum
-
Participate in two live 3-hour Zoom sessions per month
-
Engage in discussions, skill-building exercises, and applied learning
-
Complete pre-work, including videos, readings, and short assignments
Estimated time commitment:
-
Two 3-hour live sessions per month
-
4–6 hours of preparation and assignments monthly
-
Total commitment: Approximately 10–12 hours per month
2. Cohort Experience
Fellows join a diverse, global cohort of human rights leaders. The program fosters:
-
Peer-to-peer collaboration
-
Shared learning
-
Cross-cultural exchange
-
Long-term professional relationships
The community model encourages mutual encouragement, collective problem-solving, and sustained impact beyond the program.
3. Connections to a Global Network
GFiC connects Fellows to:
-
Global advisors
-
Subject matter experts
-
Human rights practitioners
-
Gender justice leaders
These connections support Fellows in strengthening their strategies, refining their advocacy, and scaling their initiatives.
4. Coaching & Individualized Guidance
Each Fellow is matched with an experienced coach who provides:
-
Strategic guidance
-
Personalized mentorship
-
Accountability support
-
Feedback on project development
Fellows are required to:
-
Participate in group coaching sessions
-
Meet with their individual coach at least twice monthly
5. Project Development & Final Pitch
Throughout the 6-month program, Fellows work on a project aligned with their human rights or gender justice mission.
By the end of the program, Fellows:
-
Demonstrate progress on their initiative
-
Pitch their project during the final cohort session
6. GFiC Grant Program
Upon successful completion of the Fellowship, participants become eligible to compete for grants to support the advancement of their projects.
Grant Application Deadline: January 31, 2027
7. Certificate of Completion
All Fellows who successfully complete the program receive an official certificate from Global Fellows in Courage.
Candidate Profile: Who Should Apply?
The GFiC Fellowship is designed for emerging leaders with demonstrated impact and strong growth potential.
Ideal candidates:
-
Are social entrepreneurs working in human rights or gender justice
-
Have demonstrated leadership experience
-
Have already made measurable impact in advocacy or social change
-
Show extraordinary potential for greater influence
Target Age Range:
-
25 to 35 years old (exceptions possible)
Language Requirement:
-
Strong command of English is mandatory
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
-
Be between 25 and 35 years old (exceptions possible)
-
Have a minimum of 3 years of experience in:
-
Human rights advocacy
-
Activism
-
Community organizing
-
Social entrepreneurship
-
-
Demonstrate engagement in gender justice or related fields
-
Be proficient in English
-
Be able to commit to all program requirements
Fellowship Expectations
Fellows must:
-
Attend two 3-hour synchronous Zoom sessions per month
-
Complete all required pre-work (4–6 hours monthly)
-
Work consistently on a project throughout the program
-
Participate in coaching sessions
-
Engage actively with the cohort and network
Failure to meet program commitments may result in ineligibility for the grant competition.
Applicants should ensure they have sufficient schedule flexibility to meet these expectations.
Application Process
Candidates must:
-
Complete the online application form
-
Upload their CV
-
Submit all materials in one session
Applicants are strongly advised to review the application questions and update their CV before starting the application.
Selected applicants will undergo an interview process to assess fit with the program’s mission and goals.
Key Dates and Timeline
Application Period: February 16 – April 1, 2026
Semi-Finalists Selected: May 1, 2026
Fellows Announced: June 1, 2026
Fellowship Program: July – December 2026
Grant Application Deadline: January 31, 2027
Learn more about this fellowship HERE.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is eligible to be a GFiC Fellow?
Eligible candidates are social entrepreneurs aged 25–35 with at least three years of experience in human rights advocacy, activism, community organizing, or related work, and who demonstrate engagement in gender justice.
Who is considered a social entrepreneur?
A social entrepreneur is an individual who develops and implements innovative solutions to address social issues. In this context, it refers to leaders using entrepreneurial approaches to advance human rights and gender justice.
What is the time commitment?
Approximately 10–12 hours per month, including two 3-hour live sessions and required pre-work.
Can I apply if I am not a social entrepreneur?
The program is specifically designed for social entrepreneurs working in human rights and gender justice. Applicants outside this focus area may not be competitive.
Why is the age range 25–35?
The program targets emerging leaders in a critical career stage, aiming to accelerate their trajectory and maximize long-term impact.
Will I receive a certificate?
Yes. Fellows who successfully complete the program receive a certificate of completion.
What is the selection process?
Applicants complete an online application and upload their CV. Selected candidates participate in an interview before final selection.
Discover more global fellowship opportunities on OFY.
