Deadline: December 1, 2026
Applications are open for the Asia Foundation Development Fellows Program 2027. The Asia Foundation Development Fellows program provides highly qualified, young professionals from Asia and the Pacific Islands with an opportunity to strengthen their leadership skills and gain in-depth knowledge of Asia’s critical development challenges.
The year-long professional advancement program is designed to be a multifaceted experience, involving intensive learning modules: short courses, conferences and study tours in Asia and the U.S. Fellows build their leadership skills, deepen their knowledge of development in the region, and join a growing network of peers and mentors globally.
Program Components
- Spring 2027: Leadership Training Program & Study Tour – (Japan, March 11-20): Fellows participate in intensive leadership training modules with executive coaches; site visits with development practitioners and thinkers, recognized policy leaders, and local innovators; short assignments; and sessions focused on self-care and wellness for leaders. For the first time, the program will take place in Japan and will overlap with the Perennial Gathering, a global invitation-based convening for leaders exploring the deeper work behind meaningful change.
- Fall 2027: Leadership Dialogue & Exchange Program – (United States, November 7-18): Fellows build on the spring program with further leadership training and seminars in the U.S. The 10-day period includes a series of sessions with regional leaders, policy discussions, and unique learning and leadership development opportunities organized in and around San Francisco, California.
- Professional Development Award & Mentorship Opportunities: Each Fellow is awarded up to US$2,500 for a tailored professional development plan. This award provides an opportunity to design individualized plans to further their leadership skills and relevant professional experience in areas of particular importance to their career growth. Fellows will receive coaching and mentorship from TAF’s regional network based on their background and interests.
Eligibility
Candidates should:
- have a demonstrable record of high achievement, and must show evidence of outstanding potential for professional advancement and significant impact in their chosen field;
- have experience and proven accomplishment related to TAF focus areas and programs;
- have outstanding personal character and integrity;
- be thoughtful, committed, respected and inspirational leaders within their professional fields and within their larger community;
- be under 40 years of age by the time of selection: January 1, 2027;
- be conversant in English (TOEFL exam results are not required);
- be available and able to participate in all program components on specified dates, no exceptions;
- be able to secure a visa for travel to the U.S.; and
- be resident nationals or citizens of the following countries and regions where TAF has programs: Afghanistan (if based in U.S.); Bangladesh; Bhutan; Cambodia; India; Indonesia; Japan, Korea; Laos (if based in U.S.); Malaysia; Maldives; Mongolia; Myanmar (if based in U.S.); Nepal; Pacific Islands Nations; Pakistan; Philippines; Singapore; Sri Lanka; Thailand; Timor-Leste; and Vietnam.
Application
For more information, visit Asia Foundation Development Fellows Program.
