HerStart International Fellowship (funded placements in Tanzania, Ghana, Uganda)

Summary: Join YCI's HerStart program for a professional fellowship, advancing global gender equality, climate action and social innovation. Receive a benefits package to travel and collaborate with dynamic organizations and innovative women entrepreneurs in Ghana, Tanzania or Uganda.

• Length of Placement: 3 months, full-time volunteer role
• Start Dates: January or May 2027
• Location: Ghana, Tanzania or Uganda
• Application Deadline: October 7 (January cohort), Feb 1 (May cohort). Positions are offered on a rolling basis – apply early!

About Youth Challenge International

Youth Challenge International (YCI) is accelerating youth innovation for good. Together with young leaders and innovators, we are creating a better future where people, planet, and profit can thrive. We are going all in on the bold ideas, skills, and ventures that will get us there. In over 30 countries, YCI has teamed up with young people and partner organizations to transform complex challenges into sustainable solutions; collectively, we learn fast, fail smart, and turn insights into action. We believe that a better world can – and will – be built by the next generation.

About the HerStart Program

YCI’s HerStart: Innovate the Future program delivers dynamic entrepreneurship and leadership training, mentorship and seed funding for young women to build businesses with positive community impact in Ghana, Tanzania and Uganda. We co-design and co-implement HerStart with local partners in each country, who contribute their unique expertise and advance their own organizational learning. We also leverage the energy and skills of Canadian volunteers through the International Fellowship program, advancing the personal and professional development of young professionals and students.

HerStart Fellows take on 3-month international placements, contributing to YCI’s mission while developing in-demand skills, networks and practical experience. Each International Fellow receives a holistic benefits package, which includes round-trip airfare, visas, health insurance, and more.

Fellowship focus areas include:

• Program & Partnerships
• Communications & Marketing
• Research & Learning
• Social Entrepreneurship
• AI & Tech

Eligibility Requirements

Full requirements and desired qualifications for HerStart Fellows are listed for each position on the HerStart Opportunities page.

Why become a HerStart Fellow?

• Gain professional global experience
• Contribute to women’s economic empowerment
• Amplify your personal and professional growth
• Access in-demand training and resources
• Join a thriving network

For more information about the HerStart International Fellowship program and benefits, including the expenses covered by YCI, please review the fellowship FAQ page here!

YCI’s HerStart: Innovate the Future program is funded in part by the Government of Canada, providing skilled Canadians opportunities to volunteer abroad with global partners and advance Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy.

For more information on the program and roles please visit: www.yci.org/herstart/international-fellowships