Deadline: 1-Feb-22
The Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC) is currently anticipating that the next round of the International Youth Fellowship program, commencing in June 2022, will involve travel and field placements in AKDN countries of operation in Africa and Asia.
AKFC is searching for individuals who can demonstrate a commitment to international development, are driven by the desire to make a meaningful change in the world, and are ready to apply their skills and experience to a challenging overseas internship.
This prestigious Fellowship is a launching pad for diverse careers in the government, non-profit, media and finance sectors. It offers a training program and an eight-month overseas placement to recent university graduates and young professionals under 30.
Benefits
- The Fellowship offers an international development training program and an eight-month overseas placement to recent university graduates and young professionals who are 30 years of age or younger.
- Each Fellow spends eight months in Africa or Asia working with agencies and partners of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), one of the world’s largest and most respected international development agencies.
- Before Fellows depart for their eight-month overseas placement, they attend a month-long seminar in Ottawa, which provides a thorough grounding in the skills and knowledge required to contribute effectively to their host organizations. Workshops are facilitated by leading international development professionals, based in Canada and overseas.
Streams
The International Youth Fellowship Program builds the skills of young Canadians and supports the work of AKFC’s partner organizations overseas. Participants can apply for one of three streams that best match their backgrounds and interests:
- International Development Management (IDM) Fellows benefit from placements in a variety of organizations, working in fields such as health, education, rural development, and civil society strengthening. Placements include positions in research, project management, communications, and monitoring and evaluation.
- International Microfinance and Microenterprise (IMM) Fellows gain experience with an organization involved in microfinance or market development, to develop skills in the day-to-day operations and evaluation of these programs.
- Young Professionals in Media (YPM) Fellows work as journalists for Nation Media Group, a leading media outlet in East Africa. With opportunities to report in print, broadcast, and digital media, Fellows gain the skills to work effectively in today’s global media environment.
How long is the Fellowship?
The Fellowship program is nine months in duration, and consists of:
- a 3-week management training seminar in Ottawa (June)
- an 8-month overseas placement (July to February)
Funding Information
AKFC covers most of the costs associated with living and working overseas including; travel, accommodation, vaccinations, health insurance, and a modest stipend to cover the cost of living. Successful candidates are required to make a one-time contribution of $1,000.00 towards the costs of the Fellowship.
What qualities is AKFC looking for in a Fellow?
- In addition to meeting the eligibility criteria listed, successful candidates have demonstrated leadership potential and excellence in their academic and professional lives. Fellows also complement a strong interest in international development with volunteer and extracurricular activities that demonstrate their willingness to support the growth of communities both at home and abroad.
- While overseas, Fellows are expected to live simply, often in rural communities or large urban centres. As such, individuals with the flexibility and maturity to adapt to new contexts and communities are ideal as Fellows.
- Candidates will be expected to communicate realistic and mature expectations of the Fellowship experience and a sophisticated understanding of general development concepts and issues. Additionally, candidates should be able to discuss their own experiences relating to intercultural sensitivity, initiative, flexibility and adaptability, teamwork and maturity.
- AKFC looks for Fellows who demonstrate humility and a commitment to change. Individuals who are self-starters and show a commitment to development and learning are highly valued.
Eligibility Criteria
All Fellows must meet the following application criteria:
- Hold, at minimum, a bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution by April 30, 2022, with a record of strong academic performance
- Will not be enrolled in any educational program for the duration of the Fellowship program (June 2022 – February 2023)
- Demonstrated a commitment to international development through related volunteer, professional or academic experience
- Be 30 years of age or under on or before February 1, 2022
- Be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident
- Be fluent in English
- Present all appropriate documentation (CVs, degrees, transcripts, references, etc.)
For more information, visit https://www.akfc.ca/get-involved/youth-fellows/apply-youth-fellows/#1636494014307-9e1907d7-df2e
