2026 DAWN Fellowship Programme for Young Women

Job Description

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Applications are now open for the DAWN Fellowship Programme 2026, an initiative supporting emerging women feminists from the Global South. This fellowship focuses on the Political Economy of Gender-Based Violence and Conflict, enabling fellows to develop projects that advance understanding of gendered power dynamics and amplify feminist perspectives in public discourse.

In this funding cycle, applications are accepted only for projects addressing conflict-affected contexts in Sudan, Palestine, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Projects focusing on other regions will not be considered.

Application Deadline: 1 March 2026

Who Can Apply

The fellowship is open to individuals who meet the following criteria:

• Women feminists under the age of 40
• Residents of the Global South
• Demonstrated commitment to feminist principles and methodologies
• Proposals that align with the theme of Gender-Based Violence and Conflict
• Individuals only; organisations, groups, or collectives are not eligible

Eligible projects may include research, advocacy, mobilisation, resistance, or creative expression.

DAWN Fellowship Programme Benefits

Financial Support

• Stipend of USD 1,200 per month for 10 months
• Funding can cover research or project expenses, materials, travel, and living costs
• Applicants should indicate additional sources of funding if project costs exceed the fellowship stipend

Mentorship and Networking

• Access to experienced feminist researchers, advocates, and activists for guidance
• Opportunities to present and publish findings via DAWN’s platforms

Professional Development

• Support in developing project methodology, strategic planning, and public engagement
• Participation in mentorship, exchanges, and networking opportunities conducted in English

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit:

1. Online Application Form – Basic personal and contact information
2. Supporting Documents – Curriculum Vitae (CV), Statement of Motivation, and one letter of recommendation from a non-related referee
3. Fillable Application Document – Official PDF form detailing project objectives, methodology, expected outcomes, and timeline

Language: All proposals must be submitted in English. Fellows must be able to participate in mentorship and exchanges in English.

Project Budget: Detailed budget aligned with the fellowship amount must be submitted.

Selection Process

Applications will be reviewed by a selection committee based on:

• Relevance and alignment with the fellowship theme
• Feasibility of the proposed project
• Originality and innovation
• Potential impact

Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Key Dates

• 19 January 2026: Call for Applications opens
• 1 March 2026: Application Deadline
• 30 April 2026: Selection process concludes; only shortlisted applicants contacted
• 1 May – 30 June 2026: Fellowship start period (flexible within these dates)

Applicants must submit all components through the online application form. Incomplete or partially submitted applications, or those sent by email, will not be considered.