Hurford Youth Fellows Program 2027 for Young Nigerian Leaders

The National Endowment for Democracy (NED), through its International Forum for Democratic Studies, is inviting applications for the 2027 Hurford Youth Fellows Program.

The fellowship supports emerging youth leaders interested in strengthening democracy, promoting civic engagement and increasing youth participation in democratic processes.

Young Nigerians and other eligible applicants from around the world can apply.

Category: Youth Fellowship

Location: Washington, D.C., United States

Duration: 1 May – 31 August 2027

Fellowship Benefits

Successful fellows receive:

• Monthly financial support for living expenses.
• Round-trip economy-class international airfare.
• Basic health insurance.
• Support for accommodation, food and local transportation through the stipend.
• Access to seminars, roundtables and field trips.
• Networking opportunities with civil society leaders, academics and policymakers.
• Professional development and international exposure.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be 30 years old or younger.
• Demonstrate commitment to advancing youth participation in democracy.
• Have relevant experience in civic engagement, democratic development or related activities.
• Propose a fellowship project addressing a democratic challenge in their country or region and its implications for young people.
• Applicants affiliated with civic organisations, human rights groups and initiatives promoting democracy are particularly encouraged.

Fellowship Activities

During the four-month fellowship, participants will work on projects addressing democratic challenges.

Each fellow is expected to produce at least one project output, which may include an article, handbook, toolkit, podcast, technology tool or video.

Application Timeline

Application deadline: 30 November 2026.

Recommendation letters deadline: 4 December 2026.

Fellowship period: 1 May – 31 August 2027.

How to Apply

• Visit the official Hurford Youth Fellows webpage.
• Review the eligibility requirements.
• Prepare your fellowship project proposal.
• Complete the online application.
• Arrange for recommendation letters to be submitted before their deadline.
• Submit your application.

Official Programme Information:

https://www.ned.org/fellowships/hurford-youth-fellows-program/

Application Portal:

https://hurford.nedfellowships.org/

Enquiries: fellowships@ned.org

Application Deadline:

30 November 2026.