Apply Now: Harvard LEAD Fellowship 2026–2027: Empowering Women to Lead Change in Global Health(Fully Funded)

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Application Deadline: November 30, 2025

The Harvard LEAD Fellowship for Promoting Women in Global Health is more than just a fellowship — it’s a powerful platform for growth, leadership, and impact. Hosted by the Harvard Global Health Institute (HGHI) and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, this one-year program is designed to help exceptional women from low- and middle-income countries strengthen their leadership skills, connect with global peers, and drive change in their communities.

Applications for the 2026–2027 cohort are now open, and emerging leaders in global health are encouraged to apply before November 30, 2025.

About the Harvard LEAD Fellowship

The LEAD Fellowship (Learn, Engage, Advance, Disrupt) helps mid-career women professionals in global health take their leadership to the next level. Through mentorship, executive education, and personalized leadership training, fellows gain the skills and confidence needed to influence health policy, strengthen health systems, and inspire other women leaders.

Since the program began, fellows from 18 countries across Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, and South America have joined the Harvard community. Their work spans areas such as HIV/AIDS, maternal and child health, healthcare delivery, and global policy. Each year, the program creates a diverse network of passionate professionals committed to improving health outcomes worldwide.

Program Overview

The Harvard LEAD Fellowship runs from September 1, 2026, to August 31, 2027. The program combines virtual engagement with an in-person experience at Harvard University, giving fellows flexibility while ensuring meaningful connections and hands-on learning.

Virtual Learning (Fall 2026)

During the fall semester, fellows participate in online sessions focused on leadership growth and personal development. They receive one-on-one executive coaching, plan their leadership goals, and connect with mentors and peers. This phase allows fellows to continue working full-time while preparing for their Harvard residency.

In-Residence Experience (Spring 2027)

In April 2027, fellows travel to Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, for six weeks of immersive, in-person learning. This part of the program includes executive education courses, leadership workshops, team-building sessions, and public speaking opportunities.

All major costs — including housing, flights, visa fees, and course expenses — are covered by the fellowship. Fellows also receive a stipend for daily living costs during their stay at Harvard.

Program Highlights

The Harvard LEAD Fellowship is tailored to help each participant achieve their personal and professional goals. Fellows benefit from access to Harvard’s world-class faculty, leadership experts, and global health professionals.

Executive Leadership Coaching

Every fellow works with an experienced executive coach to identify their leadership strengths, explore new strategies, and apply what they learn throughout the program. Tools such as the Leadership Versatility Index (LVI) and TypeCoach assessments help participants gain deeper insight into their leadership style and growth areas.

1:1 Mentorship

Each fellow is matched with a Harvard faculty mentor who provides career guidance, feedback, and opportunities for collaboration. Past mentors include leading figures such as Dr. Ana Langer, Dr. Rifat Atun, and Dr. Margaret Kruk. These mentorship connections often lead to long-term professional relationships.

Speaking and Networking Opportunities

Fellows are invited to speak at global health events, seminars, and panel discussions — helping them share their expertise, raise their profiles, and inspire others.

Leadership Masterclasses

Fellows also take part in private leadership sessions led by Harvard faculty. These small, interactive classes cover essential topics like:

  • Effective communication and public speaking
  • Negotiation and conflict resolution
  • Navigating bias and promoting equity
  • Crisis management and decision-making

In addition, fellows often take an executive course such as “Women and Power” at the Harvard Kennedy School, designed to strengthen confidence and influence in leadership.

Who Can Apply

The Harvard LEAD Fellowship welcomes applicants from all continents and professional backgrounds who are committed to advancing global health.

Eligibility requirements:

  • A Master’s degree or higher in a relevant field
  • At least 10 years of professional experience in global health
  • Current full-time employment in the field
  • Full support from their employer and a professional mentor
  • Availability to take a six-week leave during the residency period (April 2027)
  • Ability to obtain a J-1 visa for travel to the U.S.

Applicants should not have participated in another full-time fellowship of four months or more in the last two years.

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Application Materials

A complete application includes:

  • CV or Resume
  • Letter of Intent (1.5 pages) describing your career journey and how the fellowship will benefit your work and community
  • Four short essays (about 2,000 characters each) detailing your career goals, project plan, mentoring strategy, and expected impact
  • Letter of Institutional Commitment confirming your organization’s support for your participation
  • Letter of Mentor Commitment and two professional references

All application materials must be submitted by November 30, 2025.

Join the Next Generation of Global Health Leaders

The Harvard LEAD Fellowship continues to empower women who are transforming the future of global health. Through world-class mentorship, leadership development, and a supportive community, this fellowship equips women with the tools to lead boldly, advocate effectively, and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.

If you’re passionate about shaping the future of health equity, this fellowship could be your next big step.

For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE

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