Apply Now: Fully Funded GDF Conservation and Communities Fellowship 2025 for Grassroots Leaders 

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Application Deadline: 13 June 2025 (Midnight BST

The Global Development Fund (GDF), in partnership with Common Purpose and The Human Edge, invites passionate leaders from the Global South to apply for the GDF Conservation and Communities Fellowship 2025. This prestigious, fully-funded 7-month program is crafted for changemakers operating at the intersection of biodiversity conservation and community development.

Programme Duration: November 2025 – May 2026
Application Deadline: 13 June 2025 (Midnight BST)

About the Fellowship

The Conservation and Communities Fellowship (CCF) is a unique leadership initiative tailored for individuals driving grassroots action in biodiversity and sustainable livelihoods. The program nurtures 24 fellows from local and civil society organizations, equipping them with essential technical, leadership, and strategic tools to maximize their impact.

Through virtual training sessions and a high-impact in-person convening in Kenya (November 2025), fellows will engage in deep learning, mentorship, and peer-to-peer collaboration.

While the fellowship is fully funded, selected participants are expected to contribute a nominal amount towards travel expenses for the in-person component in Kenya, ensuring equitable participation.

Eligibility Criteria

The Fellowship is open to dynamic leaders who:

  • Are actively working with local or grassroots organizations focused on conservation and livelihoods.
  • Demonstrate a strong commitment to community empowerment and sustainable development.
  • Possess leadership potential, self-awareness, and a readiness to address organizational and environmental challenges.
  • Can commit to the entire duration of the program, including online sessions and the in-person summit in Kenya.

Ideal candidates are those who can articulate their learning goals and exhibit a drive to lead initiatives that protect ecosystems while uplifting communities.

Programme Pillars

The GDF Conservation and Communities Fellowship is structured around four key learning streams:

  1. Mentoring (Led by The Human Edge):
    Fellows enhance their mentorship and interpersonal leadership skills, focusing on growth-oriented and inclusive practices.
  2. Leadership (Led by Common Purpose):
    This module fosters cross-sector collaboration and community-focused leadership, helping fellows navigate complex stakeholder environments.
  3. Capabilities and Capacities (Led by GDF and Alumni):
    Fellows gain practical expertise in proposal writing, project design, team management, and resource mobilization.
  4. Communities and Conservation (Led by GDF and Alumni):
    An interactive space for critical reflection on conservation policy, local knowledge systems, and community-led environmental action.

Why You Should Apply

This fellowship not only offers hands-on training and mentorship but also empowers participants to:

  • Strengthen organizational strategies and community engagement approaches.
  • Join a robust, cross-regional network of conservation leaders.
  • Access tools to design impactful, fundable, and scalable conservation initiatives.
  • Participate in horizontal learning, drawing on experiences across geographies and cultures.

The program’s emphasis on indigenous knowledge, inclusive practices, and long-term sustainability makes it a transformative opportunity for grassroots changemakers.

Key Dates to Remember

  • Application Deadline: 13 June 2025
  • Shortlist Announcement: 25 July 2025
  • Final Participant Selection: 10 August 2025
  • Programme Launch: 11 November 2025

How to Apply

To apply, visit the official fellowship webpage and submit your completed online application before the deadline.

Application Steps:

  1. Review all eligibility requirements and program components.
  2. Prepare your responses carefully, demonstrating your leadership journey and impact vision.
  3. Submit your application by 13 June 2025.

The GDF Conservation and Communities Fellowship 2025 is a golden opportunity for conservation-driven leaders to refine their capabilities, grow their networks, and bring meaningful change to their communities and ecosystems. Don’t miss this chance to join a movement that’s building a sustainable future—from the grassroots up.

For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE

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