About this opportunity
The 2027 Sir Cyril Taylor Young African Leaders Program is AFS Intercultural Programs' third edition of the scholarship that carries a cohort of Sub-Saharan African leaders through a year of virtual development and into the AFS Youth Assembly in Geneva. The page states this is a 12-month fully funded scholarship that covers the costs of participating in all program elements listed by the organiser.
The year moves from the AFS Global Competence Certificate, delivered virtually before the Assembly, into preparation workshops, then the Youth Assembly itself in Switzerland in August 2027, where scholars receive special recognition at the Closing Ceremony, and closes with the Effect plus in the Community intensive. Travel and accommodation for the AFS Youth Assembly will be covered for the participants in this program.
No cash stipend amount is printed. The organiser records that the previous edition received almost 6,000 applications, and describes the Assembly as attracting 700-900 participants from over 100 countries, including 40% from Sub-Saharan Africa.
What you receive
- Enrollment in the AFS Global Competence Certificate program, delivered virtually before the Assembly
- Pre-Youth Assembly preparation workshops
- Participation in the AFS Youth Assembly in Switzerland in August 2027, with special recognition at the Closing Ceremony
- The Effect plus in the Community intensive
- Travel and accommodation for the AFS Youth Assembly covered
Who can apply
- 18-35 years old
- Must be from a Sub-Saharan African country
- Must have an unexpired passport
- Have demonstrable leadership qualities or proven track record of leadership experience
- Have potential for personal and professional growth
- Be able to attend the Youth Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland in person, August 2027
- Proficient in English (Intermediate Level)
- Leading a social impact project related to the sustainable development goals is preferred
Documents to prepare
- An unexpired passport, required to take up the place in Geneva
How to apply
- Open the Young African Leaders scholarships page on the AFS Youth Assembly site
- Submit the application before the printed deadline of November 19, 2026 23:59 UTC
Sources and verification
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Questions applicants ask
How competitive is the round?
The page records that the previous edition received almost 6,000 applications, and that the third edition invites a new cohort to carry forward this legacy of impact.
Is there a cash stipend?
No cash stipend amount is printed. The page states the scholarship is fully funded and covers the costs of participating in all listed program elements, including travel and accommodation for the AFS Youth Assembly.
Important disclaimer
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