The MASS African Design Centre Fellowship 2026 is a 12-month paid residency in Kigali, Rwanda, hosted by MASS Design Group. The program supports emerging African architects and designers with mentorship, practical experience, and resources to develop culturally grounded and community-driven design solutions.
MASS Design Group is an architecture and design firm that focuses on socially responsive and community-based projects. The African Design Centre Fellowship aims to equip future African architects and designers with tools, mentorship, and resources that strengthen design practice rooted in African heritage.
MASS African Design Centre Fellowship Benefits
- Paid fellowship
- Support from MASS program staff
- Assigned design mentors
- Assigned professional mentors
MASS African Design Centre Fellowship Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must be nationals of an African country.
- Applicants must be 35 years of age or below.
- Applicants must be built-environment professionals.
- Applicants must hold a degree in architecture, urban design, landscape, engineering, or a related field.
- Applicants must be able to relocate to Kigali, Rwanda, from October 2026 to September 2027.
Required Documents
- Resume/CV
- References
- Portfolio
- Statement of alignment
- Pre-fellowship essays
Program Components
- Conduct culturally rooted design research exploring indigenous knowledge systems, vernacular architecture, and urban patterns.
- Engage in community-based design projects within MASS initiatives and areas of work.
- Publish reflective pieces to share insights gained during the fellowship.
Preferred candidates are curious, collaborative, and driven emerging design leaders. They should also show commitment to social justice and environmental responsibility through their work.
How to Apply for MASS African Design Centre Fellowship
- Apply online through the application portal: https://massdesigngroup.slideroom.com/
- Review the eligibility requirements before applying.
- Prepare the required documents: Resume/CV, References, Portfolio, Statement of alignment, Pre-fellowship essays.
- Confirm any additional instructions on the official page.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the MASS African Design Centre Fellowship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the MASS African Design Centre Fellowship?
The MASS African Design Centre Fellowship is a 12-month paid residency in Kigali, Rwanda, for emerging African architects and designers. It provides mentorship, practical experience, and resources to develop culturally grounded and community-driven design solutions.
Who is eligible for the MASS African Design Centre Fellowship?
Applicants must be nationals of an African country, 35 years or below, built-environment professionals with a degree in architecture, urban design, landscape, engineering, or a related field. They must be able to relocate to Kigali from October 2026 to September 2027.
What are the benefits of the MASS African Design Centre Fellowship?
Fellows receive a paid fellowship, support from MASS program staff, assigned design mentors, and assigned professional mentors. The program is fully funded.
What is the deadline for the MASS African Design Centre Fellowship?
The application deadline is not specified. Applicants are advised to check the official page for updates.
How do I apply for the MASS African Design Centre Fellowship?
Apply online through the application portal at https://massdesigngroup.slideroom.com/. Prepare required documents including Resume/CV, References, Portfolio, Statement of alignment, and Pre-fellowship essays.
What documents are required for the MASS African Design Centre Fellowship?
Required application materials include Resume/CV, References, Portfolio, Statement of alignment, and Pre-fellowship essays.
Where is the MASS African Design Centre Fellowship located?
The fellowship is located in Kigali, Rwanda. Fellows must be able to relocate to Kigali from October 2026 to September 2027.
What is the duration of the MASS African Design Centre Fellowship?
The fellowship lasts 12 months, from October 2026 to September 2027.
What are the program components of the MASS African Design Centre Fellowship?
Fellows conduct culturally rooted design research, engage in community-based design projects within MASS initiatives, and publish reflective pieces to share insights gained during the fellowship.
Who provides the MASS African Design Centre Fellowship?
The fellowship is provided by MASS Design Group, an architecture and design firm focused on socially responsive and community-based projects.
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