Asia Foundation Development Fellows 2026

Deadline: November 10, 2025Open to: Emerging leaders aged 26–40 from eligible Asian countriesBenefits: Fully funded leadership training, professional development, mentoring, and study tours in Asia and the United States

Description

The Asia Foundation Development Fellows: Emerging Leadership for Asia’s Future program identifies and nurtures exceptional individuals from across Asia who are shaping the region’s future. Designed for professionals with demonstrated leadership potential and a proven track record of impact in their communities, this year-long program combines intensive learning modules, mentorship, and practical experience. Fellows engage in leadership workshops, policy discussions, and networking opportunities, while exploring innovative approaches to addressing pressing development challenges in Asia. The program creates a powerful platform for collaboration, amplifying the voices of emerging leaders and preparing them to influence positive change at national, regional, and global levels.

Eligibility

Applicants must be citizens of eligible Asian countries (as defined in the Asia Foundation guidelines) and fall within the 26–40 age range by the application deadline. Candidates should have a track record of leadership in fields such as governance, civil society, social innovation, policy, business, media, or academia. A commitment to contributing to development and civic life in their communities, as well as strong English proficiency, is required. Candidates with advanced degrees or significant professional experience are encouraged to apply, provided they demonstrate alignment with the program’s focus on emerging leadership.

Benefits

Fellows receive a fully funded professional development experience that combines

Leadership training and coaching with international experts

Short courses and seminars hosted by leading universities and institutions

A study tour across select Asian countries to engage with local leaders and innovators

A visit to the United States for policy dialogues and academic exposure

Ongoing mentoring and membership in an influential alumni network

This combination of experiences equips fellows with new perspectives, cross-border connections, and actionable skills to deepen their leadership journey.

How to apply

Applications are submitted through the Asia Foundation online portal. Candidates must prepare a personal statement, a detailed CV, and reference letters that highlight their leadership potential and community impact. The deadline to apply is November 10, 2025, and only complete applications submitted by this date will be considered. Shortlisted candidates may be asked to participate in interviews before final selections are announced in early 2026.

Contact information

For questions or clarifications, applicants can reach the Asia Foundation Fellowship team via the official program email: [email protected]. For further details, application guidelines, and FAQs.

For more information, visit the official website.

Applicants must be citizens of eligible Asian countries (as defined in the Asia Foundation guidelines) and fall within the 26–40 age range by the application deadline.

Applicants must be citizens of eligible Asian countries (as defined in the Asia Foundation guidelines) and fall within the 26–40 age range by the application deadline. Candidates should have a track record of leadership in fields such as governance, civil society, social innovation, policy, business, media, or academia. A commitment to contributing to development and civic life in their communities, as well as strong English proficiency, is required. Candidates with advanced degrees or significant professional experience are encouraged to apply, provided they demonstrate alignment with the program’s focus on emerging leadership.

Fellows receive a fully funded professional development experience that combines

Leadership training and coaching with international experts

Short courses and seminars hosted by leading universities and institutions

A study tour across select Asian countries to engage with local leaders and innovators

A visit to the United States for policy dialogues and academic exposure

Ongoing mentoring and membership in an influential alumni network

This combination of experiences equips fellows with new perspectives, cross-border connections, and actionable skills to deepen their leadership journey.

Applications are submitted through the Asia Foundation online portal. Candidates must prepare a personal statement, a detailed CV, and reference letters that highlight their leadership potential and community impact. The deadline to apply is November 10, 2025, and only complete applications submitted by this date will be considered. Shortlisted candidates may be asked to participate in interviews before final selections are announced in early 2026.

Contact information

For questions or clarifications, applicants can reach the Asia Foundation Fellowship team via the official program email: [email protected]. For further details, application guidelines, and FAQs. For more information, visit the official website.