Explore AL for Governance:

Umholi we Africa Fellowship

The Umholi we Africa (UwA) Fellowship, initiated by the African Leadership Academy (ALA) is a transformative two-year fellowship designed to cultivate the next generation of African senior leaders in governance and public service.

Our Vision

At UwA, we envision a continent where young Africans are empowered to actively participate inshaping the future of governance and public policy. Through mentorship, experiential learning, and meaningful engagement with senior leaders, we aim to create a diverse, competent, and inclusive public sector workforce that reflects the dynamism and potential of Africa’s youth.

Program Overview

The UwA Fellowship places high-potential young Africans in Special Advisor roles within Ministerial offices and intergovernmental organizations. These positions offer unparalleled opportunities for fellows to contribute to policy formulation, gain hands-on experience in governance, and expand their professional networks.

Our Theory of Change

We believe that by providing young Africans with a supportive community, clear pathways for engagement in policy-making, and opportunities for personal and professional growth, we can inspire them to pursue careers in politics and the public sector. Through their leadership and innovation, they will drive positive change and contribute to building a more prosperous and equitable Africa.

How to get involved

01

Host a Fellow

Governments can host a Umholi we Africa Fellow within their Ministerial offices or intergovernmental organizations. By providing a platform for young leaders to contribute to policy formulation and implementation, governments can benefit from diverse insights and expertise while offering fellows invaluable hands-on experience in governance

02

Mentorship and Support

Senior government officials can serve as mentors and advocates for Umholi we Africa Fellows during their placement. By offering guidance, support, and access to networks, mentors can help fellows navigate the complexities of public service and maximize their impact.

03

Promote Fellowship Opportunities

Governments can help promote fellowship opportunities within their networks and communities. By raising awareness about the Umholi we Africa Fellowship and encouraging qualified candidates to apply, governments can contribute to building a pipeline of talented young leaders passionate about governance and public service.

04

Long-Term Engagement

Beyond the fellowship period, governments can continue to engage with alumni of the Umholi we Africa Fellowship. By offering opportunities for ongoing collaboration, training, and career advancement, governments can nurture a network of young leaders committed to driving positive change in their countries and across the continent.

Meet the Fellows

  • Sharon Onyango 
    Quénia

    Sharon Onyango is a Cohort 2 Umholi we Africa Fellow and a grantmaking and partnerships specialist who champions locally led development, working alongside communities to…

  • Umar Danilo Aly
    Mozambique

    Umar Danilo Aly is a Cohort 4 Umholi we Africa Fellow, currently serving as Technical Advisor – Youth Development, Skills & Economic Empowerment to the…

  • Thabang Mmese
    Botswana

    Thabang Mmese is an Umholi we Africa Fellow, currently serving as Information Technology Fellow at the Ministry of Youth and Gender Affairs, Republic of Botswana,…

  • Sabelo Mpisi
    South Africa

    Sabelo Mpisi is a Cohort 4 Umholi we Africa Fellow, currently serving as Technical Advisor (Policy & Strategy) in the Office of Hon. Nobuntu Hlazo-Webster,…

  • Pheladi Tlhathla
    South Africa

    Pheladi Tlhathla is a Cohort 4 Umholi we Africa Fellow, currently serving as Joint Basin Survey IV (JBS IV) Coordinator for the Orange-Senqu River Commission…

  • Moore L. Johnson
    Liberia

    Moore L. Johnson is a Cohort 4 Umholi we Africa Fellow, currently serving as Governance and Private Sector Development Analyst at the President’s Delivery Unit…

  • Monica Elise Hella Ilonga
    Namibia

    Monica Elise Hella Ilonga is a Cohort 4 Umholi we Africa Fellow, currently serving as Technical Advisor – Curriculum and Research Innovation at Namibia’s Ministry…

  • Germaine Uzayisenga
    Rwanda

    Germaine Uzayisenga is a Cohort 4 Umholi we Africa Fellow, currently serving as Special Advisor to the Permanent Secretary of Rwanda’s Ministry of Gender and…