The Youth Leadership for Democracy and Solidarity Scholarship Programme 2026 in Ethiopia is a regional leadership initiative by the Horn Center for Democracy (HCD) that brings together emerging youth leaders committed to promoting democratic governance and cross-border cooperation in the Horn of Africa. This program offers intensive learning, peer exchange, and collaborative action to equip young leaders for democratic transformation.
The Horn Center for Democracy (HCD) is a regional organization dedicated to advancing democratic governance, civic engagement, and cross-border solidarity across the Horn of Africa. Through its multiyear youth development strategy, HCD aims to increase the resilience of pro-democracy actors and foster a new generation of leaders equipped to lead democratic change.
Youth Leadership for Democracy and Solidarity Scholarship Programme Benefits
- It covers all costs for selected participants including the residential training, online sessions, and related program activities.
- Deepen their understanding of political and governance dynamics across the Horn of Africa
- Strengthen their leadership and democratic governance skills
- Exchange experiences with peers from across the region
- Build lasting professional relationships and regional networks
- Co-design innovative responses to shared democratic challenges
- Join a growing alumni network of young democratic leaders
Youth Leadership for Democracy and Solidarity Scholarship Programme Eligibility Criteria
- A citizen of one of the IGAD member countries
- Between the ages of 18 and 35
- Demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to democratic values, and adhere to non-violent approaches to political discourse
- Have experience in civic engagement, youth leadership, community organizing, advocacy and policy engagement, social innovation and activism, movements, and political participation
- Interested in working across borders to advance democratic governance and democratic values
- Available to participate fully in all online and in-person program activities, and actively engage in group discussions and collaborative activities
- Contribute to cross-border and community project development
- Participate in program evaluations
- Demonstrate a willingness to contribute actively to the program alumni network
How to Apply for Youth Leadership for Democracy and Solidarity Scholarship Programme?
- Completed online application form
- Current CV (maximum two pages)
- Motivation letter outlining their interest in the program, any relevant experience in community organizing, development, and commitment to democratic leadership
- Any additional supporting documents requested in the application form
- A 3-5 minute Video Showcasing or explaining your relevant work and experience in relation to this call, Upload to youtube and attach the video URL only
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Youth Leadership for Democracy Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the Youth Youth Leadership for Democracy and Solidarity Scholarship Programme?
It is a regional leadership initiative by the Horn Center for Democracy (HCD) that brings together emerging youth leaders from the Horn of Africa to promote democratic governance and cross-border cooperation through intensive learning, peer exchange, and collaborative action.
Who can apply for this Youth Leadership for Democracy and Solidarity Scholarship Programme?
Citizens of IGAD member countries aged 18-35 who demonstrate leadership potential, commitment to democratic values, and experience in civic engagement, youth leadership, community organizing, advocacy, or political participation are eligible.
What are the benefits of the Youth Leadership for Democracy and Solidarity Scholarship Programme?
Participants deepen their understanding of regional political dynamics, strengthen leadership skills, exchange experiences with peers, build professional networks, co-design innovative responses to democratic challenges, and join an alumni network of young democratic leaders.
When is the application deadline?
The application deadline is August 5, 2026. Applications submitted after the deadline or incomplete applications will not be considered.
How do I apply for the program?
Applicants must submit a completed online application form, a current CV (max two pages), a motivation letter, any additional supporting documents requested, and a 3-5 minute video showcasing relevant work and experience uploaded to YouTube with the URL provided.
Where will the program take place?
The inaugural cohort will take place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia from October 11-18, 2026. The program includes a week-long intensive residential leadership training and immersive online learning sessions.
What learning themes are covered?
Themes include regional political dynamics and democratization, leadership and conflict-sensitive engagement, youth and women’s agency, digital advocacy, cross-border collaboration, grassroots democratic innovation, and collaborative project design.
Is the program fully funded?
Yes, the program is fully funded. It covers all costs for selected participants including the residential training, online sessions, and related program activities.
How many participants are selected?
The inaugural cohort will bring together 15 emerging youth leaders from across the Horn of Africa region.
Who can I contact for more information?
For inquiries regarding the program or application process, please send an email to [email protected].
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