Calling All Global Change-Makers: Apply Now for AKFC’s International Youth Fellowship 2026-27.

Admin,

If you’re a Canadian under 30 with a fire in your belly for international development, a fresh undergrad degree (or more), and a passport ready for adventure, this is your shot. The Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC) is on the hunt for the next cohort of International Youth Fellows—passionate folks like you who want to dive headfirst into meaningful work abroad. Since 1989, nearly 600 trailblazers have launched their careers through this program, landing gigs in government, nonprofits, media, education, STEM, finance, and beyond. A whopping 93% of current Fellows say it’s already reshaping their path. Ready to join them? Applications for the 2026-27 cohort close February 1, 2026—don’t sleep on this!

What’s the Fellowship All About?

This isn’t your average gap year. It’s a fully funded, eight-month immersion in international development, kicking off with a powerhouse three-week pre-departure training in vibrant Ottawa. You’ll bond with your cohort, sharpen skills with pros (including program alums), and tackle real-world challenges—like crafting a program concept note on climate resilience or gender equality and pitching it to experts. Topics? Think program design, monitoring & evaluation, results-based management, proposal writing, personal security, and weaving in themes like sustainability and equity. It’s hands-on, practical, and designed to supercharge your global mindset—no prior experience required, but your drive to learn and adapt is key.

Then, it’s off to an exciting eight-month placement in Africa or Asia with partners from the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN)—one of the world’s top development powerhouses. You’ll support local orgs boosting communities in areas like health, education, agriculture, or microfinance, gaining skills that stick for life.

Pick Your Path: Two Streams to Match Your Vibe

When you apply, choose one stream that aligns with your passions and background:

  • International Development Management (IDM): Team up with orgs tackling health, education, early childhood development, gender equality, nutrition, civil society, or climate resilience. Roles might include project management, monitoring & evaluation, partnerships, research, or operations.
  • International Microfinance and Microenterprise (IMM): Dive into market development, work & enterprise, food security, or agriculture with microfinance-focused partners. Think communications, marketing, or program ops in empowering local economies.

Fields of impact include agriculture & food security, civil society, climate resilience, early childhood development, education, gender equality, health & nutrition, and work & enterprise. Placements are tailored to your skills and interests—whether you’re a storyteller, data whiz, or strategist.

Who’s This For?

  • Canadian citizen or permanent resident
  • 30 or younger by February 1, 2026
  • At least an undergrad degree (any field—bring your unique perspective!)
  • A global citizen at heart: Curious about new cultures, committed to equity, and eager to apply your talents for real impact

No “perfect” background needed—just show us your commitment to development, your hunger for challenge, and how you’ll thrive in unfamiliar terrain. Past Fellows rave about the confidence boost: “I jumped in the deep end and came out knowing I can conquer anything,” says one 22/23 alum. Another from Kenya? “Incredible growth, supportive teams, and pure joy in cultural immersion.”

The Perks?

AKFC foots the bill for travel, accommodation, vaccinations, health insurance, and a modest living stipend. Your part? A one-time CAD $1,000 contribution to the program—think of it as investing in your global launchpad.

How to Throw Your Hat In the Ring

  1. Head to the application portal: Apply Now via AKFC (scroll to the form under the “Apply” section).
  2. Pick your stream (IDM or IMM) and suggest placements that spark your interest.
  3. Submit your app by February 1, 2026—online and straightforward.

For the full scoop, snag the brochure, watch the 2024-25 Fellows’ training video, or hit up the FAQs. Pro tip: Weave in stories of your global curiosity and development passion to stand out.

Questions? Drop a line at iyf@akfc.ca.

Inspired by real Fellow dispatches—like Jenna’s Kisumu moments or Ben’s tales of running water projects. Check ‘em out here. Who’s next?

Fellowships & Scholarship opportunities