REFUGEES INTERNATIONAL’S REFUGEE FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM 2024 FOR EMERGING LEADERS !APPLICATION IN PROGRESS!
REFUGEES INTERNATIONAL’S REFUGEE FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM 2024 FOR EMERGING LEADERS
Introduction:
Refugees International is proud to unveil the commencement of its highly anticipated Refugee Fellows Program 2024. This groundbreaking initiative extends a warm invitation to emerging leaders who share our steadfast commitment to championing the rights and safety of forcibly displaced individuals. With a duration spanning one year, this prestigious fellowship is designed to empower refugee leaders across the globe, equipping them with the essential tools and resources to elevate refugee voices and spearhead transformative change within their communities.
Program Overview:
The Refugee Fellows Program, now entering its second cohort, stands as a beacon of opportunity for individuals who have personally experienced forced displacement. This program offers a unique platform for collaboration with Refugees International, empowering fellows to engage in a myriad of advocacy initiatives aimed at amplifying the voices of displaced communities worldwide. As formal affiliates of Refugees International, fellows will work closely alongside the organization’s dedicated staff on a range of advocacy projects, including the creation of reports, opinion pieces, research trips, and direct interactions with policymakers.
Duration:
The fellowship is slated to commence on July 22, 2024, marking the beginning of an enriching journey for fellows dedicated to the cause. Over the course of one year, spanning until July 22, 2025, participants will immerse themselves in this transformative experience, contributing to meaningful change in the landscape of refugee advocacy.
Benefits:
Selected fellows of the Refugee Fellows Program will be awarded a $15,000 grant, disbursed in four quarterly installments. This financial support enables fellows to dedicate up to 5 hours per week to program activities, ensuring their commitment to advocating for forcibly displaced individuals. The fellowship encompasses the following key components:
1. Technical Training: Fellows will have access to comprehensive training sessions designed to enhance crucial skills such as public speaking, advocacy planning, fundraising, and other relevant areas tailored to their specific needs. Through these training sessions, participants will bolster their capacity to effect positive change within their communities and beyond.
2. Professional Networking: Participants will be seamlessly integrated into a vast network of influential figures within the humanitarian field. This networking opportunity serves to foster professional relationships and collaborative endeavors, empowering fellows to broaden their impact and reach across borders.
3. Funding Opportunities: Recognizing the importance of sustainable advocacy efforts, the program offers fellows support in fundraising training and networking. By equipping participants with the necessary skills and resources, the fellowship ensures their ability to sustain and expand their advocacy initiatives effectively.
4. Collaborative Advocacy Events and Trips: The program facilitates opportunities for fellows to collaborate with Refugees International on advocacy issues through various events and research trips. These collaborative endeavors enable fellows to amplify their voices, advocate for change, and contribute to tangible progress in addressing the challenges faced by forcibly displaced individuals globally
You may also be eligible for:
UNESCO The World Academy of Science TWAS-ICCBS Postgraduate Fellowship Programme (2025-2026)
Expectations and Responsibilities:
As participants of the Refugee Fellows Program, fellows are entrusted with significant responsibilities and are expected to actively engage in the following activities:
- Participation in Regular Meetings: Fellows are required to attend regular meetings to stay aligned with the program’s objectives and collaborative efforts. Active participation in these sessions is crucial for fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.
- Attendance at an In-Person Retreat (If Feasible): Fellows, if feasible, will have the opportunity to participate in an in-person retreat. Details regarding the retreat will be agreed upon with the fellows, providing them with a unique opportunity for networking, collaboration, and professional development.
- Organization and Presentation of a Webinar: Each fellow is expected to plan and conduct a webinar focused on an advocacy issue relevant to their work. Collaborating with Refugees International staff, fellows will showcase their expertise and contribute valuable insights to the broader humanitarian discourse.
- Co-Publishing at Least One Publication: Fellows are required to co-publish at least one piece of written work with Refugees International. This publication may take the form of a statement, policy brief, op-ed, report, or similar medium, allowing fellows to amplify their voices and advocate for meaningful change.
- Planning and Conducting a Field Research Trip: In collaboration with Refugees International, fellows should organize and execute a field research trip aimed at supporting mutual advocacy efforts. This hands-on experience provides fellows with invaluable insights and enhances their ability to address complex challenges faced by forcibly displaced individuals.
- Participation in Regional or Global Refugee-Related Events: Fellows are encouraged to participate in one or more regional or global events addressing refugee issues. By engaging with diverse stakeholders and sharing their experiences, fellows contribute to collective efforts aimed at advancing the rights and well-being of displaced populations worldwide.
Language Proficiencies and Digital Access:
- Language Proficiencies:
- Proficiency in English is preferred to facilitate effective engagement with Refugees International’s work and staff. Given the global nature of the program and the organization’s operational language, fluency in English enhances communication and collaboration among fellows and with Refugees International personnel.
- Competency in other key advocacy and local languages is also desirable, as it enables fellows to effectively communicate with diverse communities and stakeholders. Language skills beyond English broaden fellows’ reach and deepen their understanding of the complex issues surrounding forced displacement.
- Digital Access:
- Since the Refugee Fellows Program is conducted remotely, candidates must have access to a personal computer and a reliable internet connection to fully participate in program activities. Access to digital resources is essential for attending virtual meetings, accessing training materials, conducting research, and collaborating with fellow participants and Refugees International staff.
- Having their own computer and internet access ensures that fellows can engage seamlessly with the program’s components, contribute to advocacy efforts, and maximize their learning and networking opportunities.
Eligibility for Grant:
To qualify for the grant, fellows must have a valid bank account to facilitate the transfer of funds in adherence to U.S. legal requirements. This ensures that the disbursement process is conducted in compliance with applicable regulations, facilitating smooth financial transactions throughout the fellowship period.
Application Process:
Prospective candidates are invited to apply by completing an online application form, where they will provide essential details, submit a personal statement outlining their commitment to refugee advocacy, and present a concise work plan detailing their objectives for the fellowship year. Following the application submission, shortlisted candidates will undergo a panel interview in the latter half of June, during which they will have the opportunity to further demonstrate their suitability for the program. Fellowship decisions will be communicated to candidates by early July, marking the beginning of their transformative journey as Refugee Fellows.
The Refugee Fellows Program 2024 represents a significant opportunity for emerging leaders committed to championing the rights and well-being of forcibly displaced individuals worldwide. Through collaboration with Refugees International, fellows gain access to a platform where they can effectively advocate for refugees and marginalized communities, driving meaningful change and advancing the cause of global refugee protection and support.
Conclusion:
Refugees International’s call for applications for the second cohort of its Refugee Fellows Program marks a significant opportunity for individuals with lived experiences of forced displacement and a strong commitment to advocating for the rights and safety of displaced populations. As an organization dedicated to supporting refugee leaders worldwide, Refugees International seeks to empower emerging leaders from diverse backgrounds through its year-long fellowship program.
The Refugee Fellows Program offers a comprehensive platform for fellows to enrich and strengthen their advocacy efforts, equipping them with the essential tools and resources needed to amplify the voices and perspectives of refugees and displaced individuals. Through collaborative initiatives with Refugees International, fellows have the opportunity to drive meaningful change within their communities and contribute to broader efforts aimed at advancing refugee rights and protection globally.
By fostering a supportive environment that nurtures the leadership potential of emerging advocates, Refugees International’s Refugee Fellows Program stands as a beacon of hope for displaced populations worldwide. As the application deadline approaches, individuals with a passion for refugee advocacy are encouraged to seize this opportunity to make a lasting impact and drive positive change in the lives of forcibly displaced individuals around the world.
