The FLAC Fellowship 2026 is a funded 12-month program hosted by the Soul City Institute for Social Justice, designed to nurture feminist consciousness and build the capacity of young African women to lead change in their communities. Fellows engage in immersive learning, peer dialogue, and practical action across modules such as Gender & Healing, Feminism 101, Communications & Media, Feminist Activism, and more.
Soul City Institute for Social Justice (SCI) is a South African-based organization dedicated to advancing social justice and feminist leadership across Southern Africa. Through the FLAC Fellowship, SCI inspires young women to embrace lifelong learning, feminist activism, and the courage to challenge unjust systems, so that all women may achieve self-determination and live with dignity.
FLAC Fellowship Benefits
- Transformational learning and feminist leadership training
- Mentorship and peer dialogue
- Practical action through the Community Accelerator Project (CAP)
- Professional development and job readiness support
- Membership in a sisterhood of changemakers
FLAC Fellowship Eligibility Criteria
- Hold a minimum of a high school certificate, diploma, or undergraduate degree
- Be between 19 and 25 years of age at the time of application
- Self-identify as a woman (inclusive definition)
- Demonstrate a track record of community leadership or activism, with a focus on women’s rights (preferred)
- Show a genuine commitment to social justice and feminist principles
- Reside in South Africa, Lesotho, Eswatini, Botswana, or Zimbabwe
- Young women living in rural areas and persons with disabilities are especially encouraged to apply
How to Apply for FLAC Fellowship?
- Register and submit your complete application package via the online application link before the closing date
- Submit a Curriculum Vitae (CV) – maximum 3 pages, including a description of a time you demonstrated leadership in your community or personal life
- Submit a Motivation Letter explaining why you wish to join the FLAC Fellowship and summarising your activism and community work
- Submit a Motivation Video (2-3 minutes) outlining your passion for social justice and the change you wish to create
- Provide two Letters of Recommendation from community representatives (not friends or family) who can speak to your work ethic and commitment
- Provide one Reference Letter from a former high school educator or tertiary lecturer confirming your active leadership role during your studies (mandatory)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the FLAC Fellowship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the FLAC Fellowship?
The FLAC Fellowship is a 12-month funded program by Soul City Institute for Social Justice that nurtures feminist consciousness and builds the capacity of young African women to lead change in their communities through immersive learning, peer dialogue, and practical action.
Who can apply for the FLAC Fellowship?
Applicants must be women aged 19-25, hold at least a high school certificate, diploma, or undergraduate degree, demonstrate community leadership or activism, show commitment to social justice, and reside in South Africa, Lesotho, Eswatini, Botswana, or Zimbabwe.
What is the deadline for the FLAC Fellowship 2026?
The application deadline for the FLAC Fellowship 2026 Cohort 3 is 27 July 2026.
What are the benefits of the FLAC Fellowship?
Benefits include transformational learning, feminist leadership training, mentorship, peer dialogue, practical action through a Community Accelerator Project, professional development, job readiness support, and membership in a sisterhood of changemakers.
What documents are required for the FLAC Fellowship application?
Required documents include a CV (max 3 pages), a motivation letter, a motivation video (2-3 minutes), two letters of recommendation from community representatives, and one reference letter from a former educator confirming leadership role.
How long is the FLAC Fellowship?
The FLAC Fellowship is a 12-month program running from 2026 to 2027.
Is the FLAC Fellowship fully funded?
No.
Which countries are eligible for the FLAC Fellowship?
Eligible countries are South Africa, Lesotho, Eswatini, Botswana, and Zimbabwe.
How are FLAC Fellowship applicants selected?
Selection is based on the CV, motivation letter, motivation video, two recommendation letters, and one reference letter from a former educator. The Soul City Institute reviews all applications.
How do I apply for the FLAC Fellowship?
You must register and submit your complete application package via the online application portal at https://gms.smapply.org/prog/feminist_leadership_accelerator_for_change/ before the deadline.
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