Young Filipinos, aged 18-30, who desire to make a positive impact in their communities are invited to apply to the Youth Leadership for Democracy’s (YouthLed) 2021 Leadership and Democracy's (LEAD) Fellowship.
The program aims to empower youth for civic participation and democratic governance. Thirty youth leaders are targeted to participate in a series of leadership and skills development activities, real-world application training, and network-building engagements spread out from May 2021 to March 2023.
“We are looking for youth leaders from diverse backgrounds, particularly those who are active members of a private, public, civil society organization, educational institution, or community organization. We need champions of civic engagement, democratic participation, and activities for the benefit of the community. The program is completely free,” says Ching Jorge, chief of party, Youth Leadership for Democracy, The Asia Foundation.
She adds, “We offer equal opportunities regardless of one’s background, geographical origin, gender, belief system, and social status. We encourage differently-abled persons, members of indigenous communities, and those identifying as LGBTQI+ to apply.”
Training programs are in partnership with prestigious institutions including Asian Institute of Management’s Future Bridging Leadership Program, Ateneo School of Government’s Executive Education Courses, and Ayala Foundation Inc.’s Servant Leadership Program. Selected YouthLed young leaders will also undergo mentorship activities with Makati Business Club and Philippine Business for Social Progress.
Participants will also have opportunities to access grants and funding for their respective organizations or will receive guidance in establishing their own agencies as youth leaders. They will be backed by a network of mentors and will be recognized as a member of the YouthLed network of young leaders in the Philippines.
The fellowship program is organized by The Asia Foundation, in partnership with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), along with several organizations, institutions, and experts.
To join, fill out and submit the LEAD Fellowship application form, together with updated curriculum vitae, project proposal, budget proposal of proposed project, and two endorsement letters from an employer, teacher, school official or verifiable mentor.
Submission of application is until Feb. 28. The selected participants will be announced at the end of April on www.youthled.org.ph
