Deadline: 11-Jul-25
Pathways International, in collaboration with the uOttawa Refugee Hub, is now accepting applications for the upcoming cohort of the Refugee Leaders Fellowship Program. This prestigious fellowship is designed for refugees with strong leadership potential, offering them a comprehensive mentorship experience and empowering them to become global changemakers and social innovators.
The program is a unique opportunity for emerging refugee leaders to enhance their knowledge, build confidence, and connect with global networks. It aims to equip participants with the skills and expertise necessary to contribute meaningfully to the global refugee protection system and develop solutions for displaced communities.
Fellows will actively engage in global projects or workstreams that aim to expand pathways to protection for refugees and migrants. They will also support the implementation of key initiatives and contribute strategic input as part of the Refugee Advisory Board, particularly in projects focused on Latin America.
Each fellow will commit 20 hours per month over the course of a 12-month period. Participants will receive personalized mentorship from senior members of the uOttawa Refugee Hub-Pathways International team and gain access to a global network of professionals working in refugee protection. A customized development plan, co-created with a mentor, will guide their professional growth.
The fellowship includes a $20,000 stipend and an additional $5,000 for professional development activities tied to the fellow’s individual plan. This support enables fellows to participate in training, attend events, and advance their leadership journey.
By the end of the program, fellows will have a deep understanding of the global refugee system, strengthened leadership skills, and direct experience contributing to impactful projects. They will also have shared their personal insights and proposals for change with key stakeholders, and benefited from a development program jointly supported by Pathways International and the University of Ottawa.
As a fellow, participants will also contribute to the dissemination of the “Toolkit for Mentorship of Refugee Leaders,” helping share this resource with NGOs, academic institutions, and other organizations. Their work will build on their lived experience and be enriched by the agile and systems-oriented approach of the uOttawa Refugee Hub-Pathways International team.
The fellowship runs for 12 months. One position is Canada-based, requiring occasional travel to Ottawa. The second is a remote position open to applicants in Brazil and Colombia. All fellows must be eligible and willing to travel to Canada to participate in a required course on Global Pathways to Refugee Protection at the University of Ottawa.
Applicants must have lived experience of forced displacement and a demonstrated potential for social entrepreneurship and leadership. They should have played a significant role in refugee-led organizations or related initiatives, with a clear record of influencing policy, programs, or practices in the refugee space. Proficiency in English is essential, and knowledge of other languages is considered a plus.
Ideal candidates will be effective communicators, team players, and problem-solvers. They should be willing to travel, comfortable engaging with diverse stakeholders, and have experience in event management or advocacy. Familiarity with the global refugee system and an innovative, entrepreneurial spirit are highly valued.
For more information, visit Pathways International.
