The Acumen West Africa Fellowship offers an opportunity for experienced African entrepreneurs and social innovators seeking to strengthen their leadership skills and expand their impact. The Acumen West Africa Fellowship equips participants with practical knowledge, leadership training and a supportive network to address poverty and social challenges across West Africa.
Organised by Acumen Academy, the fellowship brings together individuals leading organisations and initiatives that improve lives in underserved communities. Participants gain the tools to develop their leadership capacity, strengthen their organisations and build sustainable solutions to poverty.
SUMMARY:
- Fellowship Sponsor: Acumen Academy
- Program Type: Fully funded leadership training
- Program Location: West Africa (hybrid)
- Program Duration: 6 months (might change)
- Funding Amount: See Program Benefits
- Available Slots: Approximately 20 fellows
- Basic Qualification: Minimum of 5 years’ professional experience
- Eligible Countries: Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Liberia and The Gambia
Also Check: World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program | Fully Funded
Programme Overview
The Acumen West Africa Fellowship is designed for social entrepreneurs, organisational leaders and professionals committed to tackling poverty through innovative and sustainable solutions.
The programme combines virtual learning, in-person immersions and practical leadership development, allowing participants to continue their professional work while building skills in adaptive leadership, communication, collaboration and organisational growth.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Acumen West Africa Fellowship, applicants should meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Reside in Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Liberia or The Gambia.
- Have a minimum of five years of professional experience.
- Be actively involved in an organisation or initiative addressing poverty and social challenges.
- Demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to creating positive social impact.
- Be willing to contribute to and learn from Acumen’s global community of fellows.
- Have reliable internet access and sufficient English proficiency.
- Be available to participate fully in the fellowship’s virtual and in-person activities.
No specific academic qualification is required.
Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows receive:
- Fully funded leadership training and programme-related expenses.
- Practical learning in adaptive leadership, communication and organisational development.
- Access to experienced mentors and professional networks.
- Opportunities to connect with social entrepreneurs and changemakers.
- Membership in Acumen’s global Foundry community upon completing the programme.
- Access to selected post-fellowship mentorship, coaching and potential funding opportunities.
Note: The fellowship does not provide an automatic cash grant, salary or business investment.
See Also: YoungEd Africa Fellowship Programme for Young Africans
Application Procedures
How to Apply: Interested applicants should follow these steps when the next application cycle opens:
- Visit the official Acumen Academy website and select the West Africa Fellowship.
- Review the eligibility requirements and Applicant Toolkit.
- Complete the online application, providing details of your professional experience, leadership journey and social impact.
- Submit the application before the announced deadline.
Shortlisted candidates are invited to participate in a Selection Conference, which may be conducted virtually.
Application Documents
Applicants should prepare information about their professional background, current organisation or initiative, leadership experience and demonstrated impact.
Formal recommendation letters are not required for the initial application, although finalists may be asked to provide professional references.
Application Deadline: To be Announced
