In a rapidly digitalizing world, the voices of young people—particularly young women—often go unheard in the civic and technological spaces shaping Africa’s future. The WanaData Fellowships 2025 are designed to bridge this gap by empowering African women working in data science, journalism, digital storytelling, and activism to lead projects that elevate youth voices on crucial topics such as gender equality, digital rights, civic engagement, and Sustainable Development Goal 16 (peace, justice, and strong institutions).
This six-month, fully supported fellowship program offers selected participants the opportunity to explore innovative approaches to storytelling and research, while using gender data to spotlight challenges and solutions for youth and women across the continent. Fellows will tackle pressing issues—ranging from cybersecurity and personal data protection to e-democracy and freedom of expression—particularly within regions often underrepresented in digital discourse, including the Sahel, West Africa, and the Horn of Africa.
Through mentorship, collaboration, and access to cutting-edge tools, fellows will co-create content that reflects the aspirations, struggles, and power of Africa’s youth, especially in digital spaces where their presence and influence are growing yet still marginalized.
The WanaData Fellowships 2025 represent a groundbreaking opportunity for African women to lead conversations and create digital content that resonates with the continent’s youth. By harnessing the power of data, storytelling, and civic tech, this fellowship is not only about professional development—it’s about shaping a more inclusive, responsive, and equitable digital future for Africa.
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Requirements/Eligibility
The WanaData Fellowships are highly competitive and open to a diverse group of applicants who demonstrate a strong track record of using data to inform or influence public discourse. Below are the essential requirements and eligibility criteria:
Gender and Membership:
Open exclusively to women who are registered WanaData members. WanaData is a pan-African network of female data scientists, journalists, developers, and activists.
Professional Experience:
Applicants must have at least one year of experience in data science, journalism, digital storytelling, or related fields. This includes content creators, media influencers, campaigners, and researchers working with gender or youth issues.
Geographic Location:
Preference is given to individuals residing in the Sahel region, neighboring West African countries, and the Horn of Africa. However, exceptional applicants from other parts of Africa will also be considered.
Portfolio Requirement:
A published portfolio demonstrating prior work in storytelling, research, activism, or digital content creation is required.
Language Skills:
Fluency in English or French is mandatory. Bilingual applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.
Thematic Interests:
Ideal candidates are those with proven interest or experience in one or more of the following areas:
- Gender equality and youth engagement
- Cybersecurity and personal data protection
- Digital democracy and civic technology
- Freedom of expression and digital rights
- Sustainable Development Goal 16 (SDG 16)
Commitment to Collaboration:
Fellows must be open to mentorship, participate in training sessions, and engage in group activities throughout the duration of the fellowship.
Adherence to Policy:
All participants must agree to comply with WanaData’s policies on content attribution, data privacy, and creating inclusive, friendly spaces.
Duration / Stipend
The WanaData Fellowship runs for six months. During this period, fellows will participate in a combination of remote and on-the-ground activities, including mentorship programs, collaborative research, training workshops, and community engagement initiatives.
What Fellows Receive:
- A monthly stipend to support their work and participation
- Access to mentorship and editorial support from leading experts in journalism, data analysis, civic tech, and gender studies
- Networking opportunities with other fellows and partner organizations across the continent
- Publication and visibility through CfA platforms and affiliated media outlets
- The chance to work on high-impact digital projects with real-world application and audience engagement
This fellowship is not just a grant—it’s an opportunity to become part of a continental movement shaping Africa’s digital civic space.
Application Deadline
The application deadline is April 28, 2025. Late submissions will not be considered, so interested applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.
Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for interviews or to provide further details on their proposed projects.
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