BDF Ghana Academy Fellowship 2026: Applications Open for Young Leaders and Aspiring Politicians

Young leaders, aspiring politicians and emerging changemakers from across the world are invited to apply for the BDF Ghana Academy Fellowship, a leadership development programme focused on political leadership, personal branding and public diplomacy. 

The fellowship is designed to equip participants with practical knowledge, leadership skills and networks that can support their personal, professional and civic development. 

BDF Ghana Academy Fellowship 

The BDF Ghana Academy Fellowship brings together motivated young people who are interested in leadership, politics, public communication and diplomacy. 

Through the programme, participants will have opportunities to develop their understanding of leadership and policy while connecting with facilitators, mentors and other young leaders from Africa and beyond. 

The programme focuses on three major areas: 

• Political Leadership 
• Personal Branding 
• Public Diplomacy 

How the Fellowship Will Be Delivered 

The fellowship modules and facilitation sessions will be conducted virtually, allowing participants to take part remotely. 

The programme will conclude with an in-person graduation ceremony. 

Participants should therefore be prepared to commit time to the virtual sessions and activities throughout the fellowship. 

Who Can Apply? 

The BDF Ghana Academy Fellowship is open to applicants who meet the following requirements: 

• Applicants of all nationalities can apply. 
• Applicants must generally be between 18 and 35 years old. 
• Exceptional applicants aged 16–17 years may also be considered. 
• Applicants must be able to commit at least two hours per week to programme activities. 
• Applicants must be proficient in English, including reading, writing and speaking. 
• Applicants must not be alumni of the BDF Ghana Academy. 

Fellowship Benefits 

Successful fellows will have access to a range of learning, networking and professional development opportunities. 

Mentorship 

Fellows will participate in mentorship sessions with BDF Ghana facilitators, providing opportunities to learn from experienced individuals and engage with leadership-related topics. 

Certificate of Completion 

Participants who successfully complete the programme will receive a certificate of completion from a partner university. 

Recommendation and Recognition 

Outstanding and best-performing fellows may receive a recommendation letter and citation in recognition of their performance. 

Access to BDF Ghana Programmes 

Successful fellows may receive invitations to participate in BDF Ghana programmes and initiatives, providing additional opportunities for engagement and development. 

Global Mentorship Initiative Exchange 

Fellows may also gain access to the Global Mentorship Initiative (GMI) exchange programme. 

Youth Exchange Opportunities 

Participants can also be considered for youth exchange programme opportunities, subject to applicable programme requirements. 

Partner Opportunities 

Fellows may have opportunities for exclusive engagement with BDF Ghana partners regarding relevant opportunities. 

Ambassadorial Opportunities 

The fellowship may also provide potential opportunities for participants to serve in ambassadorial roles, with branded T-shirts available for relevant engagements. 

Virtual Internship Opportunities 

Participants may have access to optional virtual internship placements of up to six months, providing additional opportunities to gain practical experience. 

Commitment Fee 

Shortlisted applicants will be required to pay a non-refundable commitment fee of GHS 150 to confirm their participation in the fellowship. 

Importantly, applicants should not make any payment when submitting the initial application. 

Payment instructions and details on how to submit proof of payment will be communicated directly to applicants who are shortlisted. 

Therefore, applicants should be cautious about making payments before receiving official instructions after shortlisting. 

How to Apply 

Interested applicants should complete the online BDF Ghana Academy Fellowship Application Form and provide accurate information in all sections. 

Applicants can access the application form here: 

BDF Ghana Academy Fellowship Application Form 

Applicants are encouraged to carefully review the eligibility requirements and ensure that all information submitted is accurate and complete. 

Selection Process 

Applicants should note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted regarding the next stage of the selection process. 

Shortlisted applicants will subsequently receive further instructions concerning participation and payment of the GHS 150 commitment fee. 

Key Details at a Glance 

Important Note for Applicants 

The GHS 150 commitment fee is not an application fee. According to the programme information, payment is required only after an applicant has been shortlisted and official payment instructions have been communicated. 

Applicants should therefore complete the application form without making an initial payment and wait for further communication if they are shortlisted. 

Apply for the BDF Ghana Academy Fellowship 

The BDF Ghana Academy Fellowship provides young people with an opportunity to develop skills around leadership, personal branding, political communication and public diplomacy while connecting with mentors and other emerging leaders. 

Eligible applicants who are interested in the programme can complete the application form online and await communication regarding the selection process. 

Apply here: BDF Ghana Academy Fellowship Application Form