Application Deadline: July 27, 2026
About the Programme
The Feminist Leadership Accelerator for Change (FLAC) Fellowship is a flagship leadership development programme of the Soul City Institute for Social Justice (SCI), designed to empower a new generation of young African women to become transformative leaders and advocates for social justice. The fellowship provides an inclusive learning and co-creation environment where participants deepen their understanding of feminist leadership, strengthen their leadership skills, and develop the confidence to drive meaningful change within their communities and across the continent. FLAC goes beyond traditional leadership training by nurturing feminist consciousness, encouraging participants to critically examine systems of inequality and equipping them with the knowledge, tools, and networks needed to challenge discrimination, injustice, and gender-based oppression. Through interactive workshops, mentorship, collaborative projects, and peer learning, fellows build the capacity to advocate for human rights, influence policy, and promote inclusive and equitable development. The programme also fosters a strong pan-African sisterhood of changemakers, connecting young women from diverse backgrounds who share a common commitment to advancing gender equality and social transformation. By encouraging lifelong learning, civic engagement, and collective action, FLAC empowers fellows to become influential leaders capable of creating sustainable impact in their communities, institutions, and professional fields. Applications for the 2026 FLAC Fellowship (Cohort 3) are now open, inviting eligible young African women to join this transformative programme. Successful applicants will gain access to world-class leadership development, mentorship, a supportive network of emerging leaders and opportunities to contribute to building a more just, inclusive, and equitable society across Africa.
Programme Structure & Modules
The FLAC Fellowship is a 12-month programme that prepares young leaders to drive meaningful change in their communities. Fellows engage in immersive learning, peer dialogue, and practical action.
The programme covers the following modules:
- Gender & Healing: Childhood Conditioning & Recovery
- Feminism 101: African Feminist Epistemology & Decolonial Thought
- Communications & Media Part A: Photo-Voice & Feminist Storytelling
- Feminist Activism & Movement Building
- Sexual & Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) & Sexual & Reproductive Justice
- Feminist Leadership: Power, Ethics & Practice
- Economic & Climate Justice through a Feminist Lens
- Communications & Media Part B: Advocacy Campaigns & Digital Strategy
- Community Accelerator Project (CAP): Design & Implementation
- Job Readiness & Professional Development
Eligibility Criteria
All applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a minimum of a high school certificate, diploma, or undergraduate degree
- Be between 19 and 25 years of age at the time of application
- Self-identify as a woman (our definition of ‘woman’ includes all who self-identify as such)
- Demonstrate a track record of community leadership or activism, with a focus on women’s rights (preferred)
- Show a genuine commitment to social justice and feminist principles
- Reside in South Africa, Lesotho, Eswatini, Botswana, or Zimbabwe
Young women living in rural areas and persons with disabilities are especially encouraged to apply.
Application Requirements
Please submit the following documents as part of your application:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) – maximum 3 pages, including a description of a time you demonstrated leadership in your community or personal life
- Motivation Letter – explaining why you wish to join the FLAC Fellowship and summarising your activism and community work
- Motivation Video – a short video (2–3 minutes) outlining your passion for social justice and the change you wish to create
- Two Letters of Recommendation – from community representatives (not friends or family) who can speak to your work ethic and commitment. Recommenders must state their name, position, contact information, and relationship to the applicant
- One Reference Letter – from a former high school educator or tertiary lecturer confirming your active leadership role during your studies (mandatory)
How to Apply
Register and submit your complete application package via the online application link below before the closing date.
Application Link: Click here
For More Information: Visit the Official Soul City Institute FLAC Fellowship Page
Discover more from The Extraordinary Woman
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
