The Trevor Noah Foundation has officially opened applications for the third cohort of its Education Changemakers Program (ECM) across East and Central Africa.
This initiative aims to empower young leaders who are actively transforming the educational landscape within their local communities.
Run in partnership with the Regional Leadership Center East Africa at Kenyatta University, the program seeks to address the unique challenges of the region.
By providing professional development and resources, the foundation intends to invest in the continent’s growing youth population to build sustainable educational solutions.
Funding and benefits
Successful applicants will participate in a two-phase transformative experience, starting with four weeks of intensive, in-person leadership training in Nairobi, Kenya.
During this period, participants gain foundational leadership skills and explore how to apply business and public-sector tools to strengthen school systems.
Beyond the initial training, the program offers six months of dedicated post-program support, including professional coaching and mentorship.
Crucially, changemakers gain access to small grants to help fund and implement their school-based initiatives while joining an influential pan-African alumni network.
Application requirements and eligibility
The program is open to young leaders aged 18 to 35 from 14 specific countries, including Kenya, Rwanda, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Applicants must be currently working in the primary or secondary education sector and demonstrate a proven commitment to improving learning outcomes.
Prospective candidates must be proficient in English and should be first-time applicants who have not previously participated in the YALI RLC or Mandela Washington Fellowship.
The foundation strongly encourages applications from rural youth, young women, refugees, and individuals with disabilities, ensuring a diverse and inclusive cohort.
Deadline
The application window is brief, with the final deadline for submissions set for May 13, 2026.
Shortlisted candidates will undergo a merit-based selection process, including interviews, before the training begins in July 2026.
There are no fees required to apply for or participate in the program, making it accessible to all qualified innovators.
Interested educators can submit their applications through the official Regional Leadership Center East Africa online portal.
To apply, visit The Trevor Noah Foundation call page. Visit our global opportunity page for more.
Summary not available at this time.
