The AGFUND Development Programme is a six-month pilot initiative supporting Diana Award Recipients across Africa to strengthen, sustain and scale their social action work. It combines expert-led learning, peer collaboration, and tailored development support to help young changemakers expand the impact of their projects.
The programme is delivered in partnership between AGFUND and The Diana Award, a registered charity that empowers young people to create positive social change. This pilot cohort will include up to 25 participants, with a second cohort expected in January 2027.
AGFUND Development Programme Benefits
- Six months of expert-led leadership and capacity-building sessions
- Personalised development support
- Peer learning and collaboration with changemakers across Africa
- Opportunities to strengthen and scale social impact initiatives
- Access to a growing network of young leaders and development partners
- Professional and personal development opportunities
AGFUND Development Programme Eligibility Criteria
- Be a Diana Award Recipient
- Be based in Africa
- Be aged 16–25 at programme start
- Be actively leading a social action project, initiative, or campaign
- Be committed to strengthening, sustaining, or growing their impact
- Be able to commit to the full six-month virtual programme
How to Apply for AGFUND Development Programme?
- Review the full eligibility criteria and FAQs
- Complete the online application form
- Submit by 31 July 2026 (23:59 GMT)
- Selected participants will join onboarding in September 2026
- Programme officially launches in October 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the AGFUND Development Programme. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the AGFUND Development Programme?
The AGFUND Development Programme is a six-month pilot programme designed specifically for Diana Award Recipients based in Africa who are already leading social action in their communities. The programme combines expert-led learning, peer connection and personalised development support to help participants strengthen, sustain and scale their existing work.
Who can apply?
To be eligible, applicants must be a Diana Award Recipient, be based in Africa, be aged between 16 and 25 at the start of the programme (October 2026), be actively leading or involved in social action, a project, initiative, campaign or organisation, and be able to commit to participating in a six-month virtual programme.
Is there a cost to participate?
No. Participation in the programme is completely free.
How many participants will be selected?
Up to 25 participants will be selected to join this cohort. A second cohort of up to 25 participants is expected to begin in January 2027, creating further opportunities for Diana Award Recipients to participate.
I have an idea but haven’t started my project yet. Can I apply?
This programme has been designed primarily for Diana Award Recipients who are already running projects, initiatives, campaigns or organisations and are looking to strengthen, sustain or grow their work. Applicants at earlier stages are welcome to apply, but priority may be given to those with existing social action experience.
What topics will the programme cover?
Participants will explore topics including: Leadership and sustainable change, Time and energy management, Wellbeing and resilience, Measuring and demonstrating impact, Strategic storytelling and visibility, Partnerships and collaboration, Funding and sustainability, and Scaling impact.
What is the time commitment for participants?
Participants should expect to commit at least 6 hours per month over the six-month programme. This includes live online learning sessions (typically 90-120 minutes), interactive workshops, community engagement through the AGFUND Slack workspace, reflection activities, two individual development support sessions, and optional networking opportunities.
When does the programme start?
Successful applicants will take part in onboarding activities in September 2026. The programme will officially begin in October 2026 and run for six months.
How will participants be selected?
Applications will first be reviewed against the eligibility criteria. Eligible applications will then be assessed based on current social action work, motivation for participating, development needs and challenges, potential to benefit from the programme, and ability to commit. We will also seek to create a diverse cohort representing different countries, sectors and experiences.
Will I receive a certificate?
Participants who complete the programme and engage fully in activities will receive a certificate of participation from The Diana Award.
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