Applications are Now Open for the University of Toronto Women in Global Health Leadership Fellowship 2026/2027 for African Women Professionals (Fully Funded)

Admin,

Application Deadline: May 22, 2026

Women remain underrepresented in leadership positions across health systems worldwide, despite being the backbone of healthcare delivery. From hospitals and research institutions to policy agencies and grassroots organizations, women continue to drive impact — yet many still face barriers to senior leadership opportunities.

To help close this gap, applications are now open for the University of Toronto Dalla Lana School of Public Health Women in Global Health Leadership Fellowship 2026/2027. This prestigious fellowship is designed for early- to mid-career African women professionals working in public health who are ready to strengthen their leadership capacity and create change in their communities.

Delivered through a powerful collaboration between the University of Toronto (Canada), Moi University (Kenya), and the University of Cape Town (South Africa), with support from the Mastercard Foundation, this program combines training, mentorship, networking, and financial support.

For women working in health policy, teaching, research, or practice, this is more than a fellowship — it is an opportunity to grow into a stronger leader and shape the future of health systems in Africa.

About the Women in Global Health Leadership Fellowship

The fellowship is a 12-month hybrid leadership development program designed to equip talented women professionals with practical leadership tools, policy knowledge, and gender-responsive approaches to public health systems.

The program focuses on empowering women who are already contributing to health outcomes but need structured support, visibility, and access to leadership pathways.

Participants will engage in a combination of:

  • Virtual learning sessions
  • Expert-led workshops
  • Personalized mentorship
  • Peer collaboration
  • Leadership project development
  • One-week in-person academy in Kenya

The fellowship is especially relevant in today’s world, where Africa continues to need inclusive and resilient health systems led by professionals who understand local realities and global challenges.

This initiative recognizes that when women lead, institutions become more equitable, communities become healthier, and future generations benefit.

What Selected Fellows Will Receive

Successful applicants will benefit from a fully funded experience designed to remove barriers to participation and maximize impact.

Fellowship Benefits Include:

  • Fully funded participation in the 12-month fellowship
  • Access to world-class leadership training
  • Workshops facilitated by global health experts
  • Personalized mentorship from experienced leaders
  • Guidance to design and implement a leadership project
  • One-week in-person leadership academy in Kenya
  • Transportation, accommodation, and meals for in-person training
  • Financial stipend for living support or caregiving needs
  • Access to a professional network of fellows and alumni
  • Opportunity to serve as advisor to future cohorts

This combination of funding, training, and mentorship makes the fellowship highly valuable for women balancing career growth with family or caregiving responsibilities.

Key Learning Areas and Competencies

Participants will build practical skills in areas that matter for career advancement and systems change.

Fellows Will Gain Knowledge In:

1. Gender Equity and Intersectionality

Learn how to analyze health systems through a gender lens and advocate for inclusive solutions.

2. Global Health Policy and Advocacy

Understand policymaking, stakeholder engagement, and how to influence change.

3. Leadership Development

Build confidence, decision-making ability, collaboration skills, and strategic vision.

4. Mentorship and Growth

Identify career pathways, unlock leadership potential, and support others.

These competencies are essential for women who want to move into executive, advisory, academic, or policy leadership roles.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply, candidates must meet the following requirements:

  • Identify as a woman
  • Be an early- to mid-career professional with 5–15 years of experience in public health
  • Work in local, regional, or global health roles
  • Hold postgraduate education in one of the following areas:
    • Public Health
    • Health Policy
    • Health Sciences
    • Related fields
  • Work in policy, research, teaching, or public health practice
  • Demonstrate leadership potential through work, education, or service
  • Reside and work in Kenya or South Africa
  • Be an African national
  • Be fluent in English
  • Be able to attend the in-person training in Kenya in early 2027
  • Be able to obtain a valid passport

Fellowship Timeline and Structure

The fellowship runs across several phases:

Pre-Start

  • Orientation materials
  • Baseline survey

Phase 1 (Online)

  • Leadership and policy learning sessions
  • Group work and reflective exercises
  • Guest speakers

Phase 2 (Hybrid)

  • Continued online learning
  • Intensive one-week in-person academy in Kenya
  • Mentor matching

Phase 3 (Online)

  • One-on-one mentorship
  • Leadership project development
  • Final presentations

Post Fellowship

  • Alumni network access
  • Potential advisory opportunities for future cohorts

Application Process and Deadline

The application process takes place in two stages:

Step 1: Expression of Interest (EOI)

All interested applicants must first complete the online Expression of Interest form.

Deadline: May 22, 2026

Step 2: Full Application (Invitation Only)

Candidates shortlisted from the EOI stage will be invited to submit a full application.

Expected Deadline: End of June or early July 2026

To apply, visit the official fellowship webpage through the University of Toronto Dalla Lana School of Public Health.

Also, check out similar leadership and fellowship opportunities on OpportunityPool.org.

Why You Should Apply

Many talented women in Africa already lead quietly — managing teams, improving services, mentoring others, and solving community challenges. However, leadership growth often requires recognition, networks, and structured support.

This fellowship can help bridge that gap.

If selected, you will gain:

  • International credibility
  • Stronger leadership confidence
  • Access to mentors and institutions
  • Greater career visibility
  • Tools to influence policy and systems

Even if you feel unsure, apply. Competitive fellowships often look for potential, not perfection.

Tips for a Strong Application

To improve your chances:

Show Real Impact

Use measurable examples of how your work improved health outcomes, systems, or communities.

Highlight Leadership

Mention times you led teams, solved problems, mentored others, or initiated change.

Connect Your Goals

Explain how the fellowship aligns with your future vision.

Be Authentic

Your personal motivation matters. Share your story clearly and honestly.

Apply Early

Do not wait until the deadline.

Conclusion

The University of Toronto Women in Global Health Leadership Fellowship 2026 is a rare opportunity for African women professionals ready to grow, lead, and transform health systems.

If you are based in Kenya or South Africa and working in public health, this fellowship could become a major turning point in your career.

Apply early, prepare thoughtfully, and step confidently into leadership.

For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE 

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