AIIDEV Africa is pleased to present the SDG Africa Mentorship Programme, a unique six-month fellowship that seeks to provide mentorship to young African professionals to enable them to become sustainable development champions in their respective countries. The aim of the SDG Africa Mentorship Programme is to equip young African professionals to become champions of sustainable development in their respective countries. The programme is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and aims to empower the next generation of African leaders with the skills, knowledge and networks needed to drive sustainable development across the continent.

The SDG Africa Mentorship Programme aims to bridge the gap in mentorship opportunities for young professionals in Africa, particularly those who are passionate about sustainable development. The Mentorship Programme is justified by the need to develop the capacity of young professionals in Africa and provide them with the support they need to become leaders in their fields. By matching young professionals with experienced mentors, the fellowship programme will help address the skills gap and build a new generation of leaders equipped with the skills, knowledge and support needed to contribute to the achievement of the SDGs in Africa.

Eligibility criteriaTo take part in this programme, please note the following criteria before proceeding with your application:

1. Applicants must be citizens of any African country between the ages of 21 and 35.
2. Applicants must have at least a bachelor's degree or equivalent in any relevant field.
3. Applicants must have a minimum of two years' professional experience in a field related to sustainable development or a demonstrated commitment to working towards the SDGs through voluntary work or personal initiatives.
4. Candidates should have a genuine interest and passion for sustainable development and a desire to contribute to the realisation of the SDGs in Africa.
5. Scholars must demonstrate leadership potential and a strong commitment to making a positive impact on their respective countries and communities.
6. Fellows must be available to actively participate in the six-month mentoring programme, including attending training sessions, workshops and mentoring meetings.
7. Applicants must be committed to fully engaging in the mentoring programme, actively collaborating with their mentors and fellow participants, and completing all necessary programme activities.
8. Candidates should have a good command of English, as the programme will be conducted in English.
9. Candidates must have access to a reliable internet connection and the technological devices needed to fully participate in virtual activities and meetings.
10. Scholars may be required to provide references or letters of recommendation from professionals or individuals who can attest to their qualifications, character and commitment to sustainable development.

Benefits and opportunities

The ODS Africa Mentoring Programme offers several benefits and opportunities for fellows and mentors, including:

1. Fellows will have access to experienced mentors who can guide and support them in achieving their personal and professional goals.
2. The fellows will receive training and workshops in areas relevant to their interests and to the SDGs.
3. Fellows will have the opportunity to network with other fellows and mentors and collaborate on sustainable development projects.
4. Mentors will have the opportunity to contribute to sustainable development in Africa by guiding and supporting the next generation of leaders.
5. Mentors will have the opportunity to share their knowledge and experience with young professionals and contribute to their development.

NB: The SDG Africa Mentorship Programme will be conducted in English, and fellows must have adequate knowledge of the language. Applications not submitted in English will be disqualified. This programme will be conducted in a hybrid format, using various learning pedagogy and communication platforms. Successful candidates will be on board and enrolled in the 6-month scholarship programme from 30 June 2023.

The application deadline for the 2023 cohort of the SDG Africa Mentorship Programme is 24 June 2023 at 10:00 (WAT). We encourage you to complete and submit this form before the deadline!

Registration link: https://forms.gle/maU8539cMUjTWKnt5