The Western Union Foundation Fellowship is a prestigious, fully funded program designed to support and nurture the next generation of changemakers and social entrepreneurs. This fellowship offers an incredible opportunity for individuals from all over the world to develop their leadership skills, gain valuable experience, and create a significant impact in their communities. In this article, we will explore the details of this fellowship, the benefits it offers, the eligibility criteria, and the application process.
The Western Union Foundation Fellowship aims to empower social entrepreneurs and community leaders who are working to create positive change in their societies. This fellowship is part of Western Union’s commitment to fostering global development and supporting innovative solutions to social challenges.
Benefits of the Fellowship
Fully Funded Program
The fellowship covers all expenses related to the program, including travel, accommodation, meals, and program materials. This ensures that fellows can focus entirely on their development and their projects without financial worries.
Leadership Development
Fellows receive comprehensive leadership training that helps them enhance their skills in areas such as strategic planning, project management, and community engagement. The training is delivered by experts and experienced professionals in the field.
Networking Opportunities
The fellowship provides a platform for fellows to connect with a global network of like-minded individuals, mentors, and industry leaders. These connections can lead to valuable collaborations and support for their projects.
Mentorship and Support
Fellows are paired with mentors who provide guidance, support, and feedback throughout the program. This mentorship is crucial for personal and professional growth, helping fellows to refine their ideas and strategies.
Project Funding
In addition to the training and support, fellows have the opportunity to receive funding for their projects. This financial assistance can be instrumental in bringing their ideas to life and scaling their impact.
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Eligibility Criteria
Your fellowship is intended for entrepreneurs or community leaders who work with highly marginalised, refugee, and forcibly displaced communities worldwide. You possess an entrepreneurial spirit, a growth mindset, and a strong desire to become an effective leader in your community. Problem-Solution Fit or Product-Market Fit phases are ideal, with beneficiaries or customers involved and proven results in terms of impact and revenue.
You have the option to enrol in the 16-week programme, which includes a virtual immerse for two weeks. Those who are totally devoted to taking part in the programme to the fullest extent are given priority. A strong sense of community is at the centre of the programme, and everyone who participates must be enthusiastic and actively engaged in order for it to succeed. Participants must also be keen to share and learn.
To be eligible for the Western Union Foundation Fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Age and Background
Applicants should be between 18 and 35 years old. The fellowship is open to individuals from all backgrounds and nationalities.
Social Impact
Applicants must be working on a project or initiative that addresses a significant social issue. This can include areas such as education, healthcare, economic development, and environmental sustainability.
Leadership Potential
Candidates should demonstrate strong leadership potential and a commitment to driving positive change in their communities. This includes a track record of community involvement and social impact.
English Proficiency
Since the program is conducted in English, applicants must have a good command of the language to fully participate in the fellowship activities.
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Application Process
Online Application
Interested candidates need to complete an online application form, which includes detailed information about their background, project, and motivation for applying. It is important to provide clear and concise answers to the questions.
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Video Submission
As part of the application, candidates are required to submit a short video (usually 2-3 minutes) introducing themselves and their project. This video helps the selection committee to understand the applicant's passion and vision.
Selection Process
The selection process involves multiple stages, including an initial review of applications, interviews, and final evaluations. Shortlisted candidates may be asked to provide additional information or participate in further interviews.
Notification
Successful applicants are notified of their selection and provided with detailed information about the program, including dates, locations, and expectations.
Dates and Information
The dates of the programme are August 8, 2024, through November 19, 2024 (16 weeks).
Format: Eight to ten hours of time commitment each week for weekly virtual workshops with localised get-togethers and activities where feasible. The sessions take place in Mountain Time Zone (GMT-6) on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
Immersion & Orientation: August 8, 2024, is the commencement date of a 2-week virtual Immersion that requires a 20–25 hour weekly time commitment.
Training: Foundations, Data & Metrics, Go-To-Market, Funding, Team Management, and Pitch are all covered in weekly expert-led classes.
Impact Series: Well-known executives, business owners, and professionals participate in the fellowships we support in order to mentor the Fellows and share their experiences and entrepreneurial journeys. View the Speakers from the Impact Series past here.
Basecamp: One to three-day workshops conducted by Fellows that are held in each Fellow's community to help them brainstorm ideas, create business plans, and effectively pitch their companies and organisations to outside audiences.
Summit: A culminating celebration on November 19, 2024, where a chosen group of Fellows will make their pitch to prominent entrepreneurs, financiers, and local and international leaders.
Venture Development Stipend: Depending on their success and influence during the Fellowship, a group of three6,000 venture development stipends will be awarded to a chosen group of Western Union Foundation Fellows.
June 1st, 2024 is the deadline for priority applications. Following the deadline, applications will be assessed on a rolling basis.
Eligible Countries
United States, Uganda, Nigeria, Pakistan, Bangladesh, India, United Kingdom, Germany, Lithuania, Japan, Philippines, Colombia, Mexico, Costa Rica, Argentina, Brazil.
Preference is given to applicants from the following locations: Uganda, Colombia, Mexico, Pakistan and the United States.
Conclusion
The Fully Funded Western Union Foundation Fellowship is a remarkable opportunity for young social entrepreneurs and community leaders to enhance their skills, expand their networks, and bring their innovative ideas to life. With comprehensive support, mentorship, and funding, this fellowship empowers individuals to create lasting social impact and drive positive change in their communities. If you are passionate about making a difference and meet the eligibility criteria, consider applying for this life-changing fellowship.