The VV Engage Fellowship is a fully funded 10-month program by Vital Voices that supports outstanding women public leaders making and influencing policy across the globe. This fellowship strengthens the capacity, decision-making power, and effectiveness of women leaders in public life, fostering bipartisan collaboration and advancing gender equality in representation globally.
Vital Voices is a leading global nonprofit that invests in women leaders who are solving the world’s greatest challenges. With over 25 years of experience, they have built a network of more than 49,000 women leaders worldwide. The VV Engage program is supported by Freeport-McMoRan and developed in partnership with the Council of World Women Leaders and professors of the Harvard Kennedy School.
VV Engage Fellowship Benefits
- Fully funded fellowship with training on leadership, strategic communications, political strategy, and governance
- Vital Voices Leadership Journey virtual leadership development course
- Access to a global network of peers and political leaders, including current and former heads of state, through the Council of Women World Leaders
- Access to the VV Engage Alumni community of over 190 alumni
- Continued alumni virtual programming
- Access to the Vital Voices global network of more than 49,000 women leaders and its Hub with continuing education and engagement opportunities
VV Engage Fellowship Eligibility Criteria
- Must have at least three years of experience holding a leadership or decision-making role in public office, government, civic institutions, political movements, or public policy spaces
- Be 18 years old by June 2026
- Must be one of the following: an elected/appointed official, a political party leader, an appointed official, a political activist, a community leader, a media professional, or a civil society leader
- Must demonstrate a commitment to the core principles of the ‘Vital Voices Leadership Model’ – Innovative, collaborative, and driven by a clear sense of mission; engaged in her community; committed to working with different political ideologies; committed to advancing the status of women and girls; committed to transparency and good governance
- Must demonstrate a commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
How to Apply for VV Engage Fellowship?
- Complete the online application form before the deadline
- Review the eligibility requirements and program expectations carefully before applying
- Shortlisted candidates may be invited for a 30-minute virtual interview
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the VV Engage Fellowship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the VV Engage Fellowship?
The VV Engage Fellowship is a fully funded 10-month program by Vital Voices that supports outstanding women public leaders making and influencing policy across the globe. It focuses on strengthening leadership skills, fostering bipartisan collaboration, and advancing gender equality in public representation.
Who can apply for the VV Engage Fellowship?
Women with at least three years of experience in a leadership or decision-making role in public office, government, civic institutions, political movements, or public policy spaces can apply. Applicants must be 18 years old by June 2026 and demonstrate commitment to the Vital Voices Leadership Model and the SDGs.
What are the benefits of the VV Engage Fellowship?
Fellows receive fully funded training on leadership, strategic communications, political strategy, and governance. They also gain access to a global network of peers and political leaders, the VV Engage Alumni community, and the Vital Voices global network of over 49,000 women leaders.
What is the deadline for the VV Engage Fellowship 2026?
The application must be submitted by 11:59pm EST on May 22, 2026. It is important to submit the online application form before this deadline.
How long is the VV Engage Fellowship program?
The program lasts 10 months, from June 2026 to March 2027. Accepted fellows must commit to full participation in the entire program and are expected to be prepared and engaged with staff, trainers, and fellows before, during, and after the program.
Is the VV Engage Fellowship fully funded?
Yes, the VV Engage Fellowship is fully funded. It includes training on leadership, strategic communications, political strategy, and governance, as well as access to a global network of peers and political leaders.
What is the selection process for the VV Engage Fellowship?
The VV Engage Fellowship is highly selective. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for a 30-minute virtual interview. Final decisions are communicated following the selection process.
Can I apply if I am not an elected official?
Yes, you can apply if you are a political party leader, appointed official, political activist, community leader, media professional, or civil society leader. You must have at least three years of experience in a leadership or decision-making role in relevant spaces.
What is the focus of the VV Engage Fellowship?
The fellowship focuses on women’s public leadership, gender equality in representation, and progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals, especially SDG 5: Gender Equality. It aims to shift global culture around women’s public leadership.
How do I apply for the VV Engage Fellowship?
Interested applicants should complete the online application form available at the provided link before the deadline. It is recommended to review the eligibility requirements and program expectations carefully before applying.
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