Deadline: November 30, 2026
Applications are open for the Hurford Youth Fellows Program 2027. The Hurford Youth Fellows Program equips emerging democracy leaders from around the world with the skills, networks, and practical tools to turn youth energy into democratic change. Over the course of four months in Washington, D.C., fellows explore new ideas, initiatives, and innovations, share experiences and lessons learned with activists from other countries, and contribute to the global youth movement for democracy.
Young people are helping to shape the struggle for democracy around the world. From Peru and Nepal to Madagascar, Morocco, Bangladesh, Kenya, Georgia, and Serbia, youth activists have mobilized against corruption, joblessness, and political exclusion. They have brought fresh strategies to civic action, using technology and social media to amplify their concerns, organize their peers, and demand change.
Yet translating the energy and ambition behind these movements into concrete democratic outcomes remains a challenge. Youth movements and established civic organizations often struggle to connect their efforts, build on shared priorities, and translate public demands into institutional change. With the generous support of the Hurford Foundation, the Hurford Youth Fellows Program supports emerging leaders working to bridge this gap and create meaningful pathways for young people to influence decisions and advance democracy.
Benefits
- Each fellow receives a monthly stipend for living expenses, basic health insurance coverage, and roundtrip economy-class travel to and from Washington, D.C., at the beginning and end of the fellowship. Stipends are calculated to cover a short-term furnished rental apartment, food, local transportation, and other necessities. Fellows who bring family members are responsible for their dependents’ roundtrip travel and living expenses in the United States.
Eligibility
- Applicants must be 30 years of age or younger and demonstrate a commitment to—and experience in—advancing youth participation in democracy.
- Applications are especially encouraged from leaders affiliated with civic organizations, human rights groups, and initiatives working to strengthen democracy.
Application
Up to three (3) fellows will be selected for a four-month fellowship, from May 1 through August 31, 2027.
For more information, visit Hurford Youth Fellows Program.
