WanaData Digitalise Youth Voices Fellowship (Cohort 2)
Africa’s digital future is being shaped right now—and young people must be at the center of that transformation. The WanaData Digitalise Youth Voices Fellowship (Cohort 2) is a powerful opportunity designed to equip young African data scientists, researchers, journalists, technologists, and storytellers with the tools, support, and platform needed to amplify youth voices and advance gender-responsive digital initiatives across the continent.
This 6-month, stipend-based fellowship supports young changemakers who are passionate about using data, digital tools, and storytelling to promote gender equity, protect digital rights, strengthen democracy, and create safer online spaces. Through a mix of funding, mentorship, and hands-on capacity building, the fellowship empowers fellows to turn ideas into impactful digital projects.
About the Fellowship
The WanaData Digitalise Youth Voices Fellowship is an initiative focused on youth-led, gender-focused digital projects that advance transparency, accountability, and inclusion in Africa’s digital ecosystem. The fellowship recognizes that young people—especially women and marginalized groups—are often excluded from digital policy spaces despite being the most affected by digital transformation.
Cohort 2 will select up to 14 fellows from across Africa who demonstrate strong commitment to digital rights, data-driven storytelling, and social impact. Fellows will work on projects that highlight youth perspectives, address gender gaps, and strengthen democratic participation in digital spaces.
Fellowship Structure & Benefits
Duration
- 6 months
Number of Fellows
- Up to 14 selected participants
Financial Support
- USD 250 monthly stipend for the entire fellowship period
Additional Support
Beyond the stipend, fellows receive comprehensive support to ensure meaningful growth and impact, including:
- Tailored training sessions on data analysis, digital security, and storytelling
- One-on-one mentorship from experienced professionals
- Expert guidance on project design, implementation, and communication
- Access to a pan-African network of digital rights advocates and data practitioners
- Opportunities to showcase work at regional and global platforms
This holistic support model ensures fellows not only complete strong projects but also build long-term skills and professional networks.
Focus Areas
Applicants are expected to design or contribute to projects aligned with one or more of the following thematic areas:
Gender Data & Digitalisation
Projects that use data to highlight gender disparities in digital access, participation, safety, or policy.
Cybersecurity & Personal Data Protection
Initiatives that promote awareness, advocacy, or solutions around online safety, data privacy, and digital security—especially for women and youth.
For more updates >>>
Applications Open: 2026 West Africa Midwifery Leadership Journey (Fully Funded)
E-Democracy & Digital Mobilisation
Projects that strengthen democratic participation using digital tools, including civic engagement, elections, accountability platforms, and youth mobilization.
Freedom of Expression & Human Rights
Storytelling or data-driven projects that defend digital rights, counter censorship, or amplify marginalized voices.
SDG 16: Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions
Innovative digital approaches that support transparency, justice, governance, and inclusive institutions.
Applicants are encouraged to bring creative, context-specific, and youth-centered ideas that respond to real challenges within their communities.
Who Should Apply?
The fellowship is open to young Africans who are passionate about digital justice and social change. Ideal candidates include:
- Data scientists and analysts
- Journalists and data journalists
- Researchers and policy advocates
- Digital storytellers and content creators
- Technologists and civic tech practitioners
- Gender and human rights activists with digital project ideas
Applicants should demonstrate:
- A clear interest in digital rights, gender equality, or civic engagement
- Experience (academic, professional, or voluntary) relevant to the focus areas
- Strong communication and collaboration skills
- Commitment to completing a 6-month fellowship program
Expected Outcomes
By the end of the fellowship, selected fellows will have:
- Designed and implemented a gender-responsive digital or data-driven project
- Strengthened their technical, analytical, and storytelling skills
- Gained hands-on experience working with mentors and experts
- Contributed to amplifying youth voices in Africa’s digital policy space
- Joined a growing network of African digital changemakers
How to Apply
Interested candidates must complete the official online application before the deadline. Apply Here
Application Steps:
- Prepare your idea
- Clearly outline a project or concept aligned with the fellowship’s focus areas
- Explain the problem you want to address and the impact you aim to create
- Gather required information
- Personal and professional background
- Relevant experience in data, storytelling, technology, or advocacy
- Motivation for joining the fellowship
- Submit your application online
- Complete the application form provided by WanaData
- Ensure all responses are clear, concise, and honest
- Wait for selection updates
- Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for further assessment or interviews
Application Deadline: 11 January 2026
Early applications are strongly encouraged.
Why This Fellowship Matters
In an era where digital systems increasingly shape governance, rights, and access to information, youth voices—especially African youth—must not be left behind. The WanaData Digitalise Youth Voices Fellowship offers a rare chance to gain funding, skills, and visibility while contributing to meaningful digital change.
If you are ready to use data, technology, and storytelling to build a more inclusive, secure, and democratic digital Africa, this fellowship is for you.
Apply now and be part of the next generation shaping Africa’s digital future.