The John Lewis Young Leaders Fellowship 2026–2027 is a prestigious, fully funded leadership program designed for action-oriented university students who are committed to advancing social justice, human rights, and community change.
Organised by , this fellowship honors the legacy of civil rights icon John Lewis by empowering the next generation of leaders with funding, mentorship, training, and a powerful global network.
This opportunity is open to eligible college and university students who are ready to lead impactful projects within their campus or local communities.
Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows will receive:
• USD 2,000 personal stipend
• USD 1,000 action fund to support a capstone social impact project
• All-expenses-paid in-person retreat in Summer 2026
• Professional leadership training and organizing workshops
• Mentorship from experienced human rights leaders
• Access to a global network of young leaders and alumni
• Ongoing career and professional development support
This fellowship is fully funded. Fellows do not pay any participation fees.
Who Can Apply (Eligibility)
Applicants must:
• Be a current undergraduate student enrolled at a college or university
• Demonstrate a strong interest in social justice, human rights, or community organizing
• Be willing to design and implement a capstone project during the fellowship period
• Be able to commit to fellowship activities, including the summer retreat
• Show leadership potential and a clear commitment to positive change
The program welcomes applicants from diverse academic backgrounds.
Fellowship Duration
The John Lewis Young Leaders Fellowship runs throughout the 2026–2027 academic year, with an intensive in-person retreat scheduled for Summer 2026.
Application Deadline
Applications open: January 5, 2026
Application deadline: February 27, 2026 (11:59 PM EST)
Explore more opportunities like this
Late applications are not accepted.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the official RFK Human Rights portal.
Applicants are required to complete the online form and provide information about their background, leadership experience, and proposed capstone project.
Selection Process
Applications are reviewed competitively. Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for further evaluation. Final selections are based on leadership potential, commitment to justice-driven work, and feasibility of the proposed project.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the John Lewis Young Leaders Fellowship fully funded?
Yes. The fellowship covers stipends, project funding, training, and travel costs for the summer retreat.
Can international students apply?
Eligibility depends on enrollment at an accredited institution and ability to participate in program activities. Applicants should review the official application page carefully.
Do I need prior activism experience?
Formal activism experience is not mandatory, but applicants should demonstrate a genuine commitment to social change.
Is there an application fee?
No. The application is completely free.
Can graduate students apply?
The fellowship is primarily targeted at undergraduate students. Always confirm current eligibility details on the official page.
Why This Fellowship Matters
The John Lewis Young Leaders Fellowship is more than financial support. It is a career-defining opportunity that strengthens leadership credentials, builds international exposure, and provides real-world experience in social impact work.
For students interested in fully funded fellowships, leadership programs, and international recognition, this opportunity stands out as one of the most competitive and respected programs globally.
