HerStart International Fellowship 2025: How to Apply & Key Details

The HerStart International Fellowship 2025, organized by Youth Challenge International (YCI), is a prestigious, fully funded opportunity designed for individuals passionate about women’s empowerment, social entrepreneurship, and global development. This program allows participants to gain hands-on experience by working with women-led businesses in Ghana, Tanzania, and Uganda, fostering economic growth and sustainable development.

If you aspire to make a real impact in the world while accelerating your career, this fellowship offers a unique blend of global exposure, professional growth, and meaningful engagement in international development.

Key Details of the Fellowship

Feature	Details
Fellowship Provider	Youth Challenge International (YCI)
Program Duration	3 Months
Eligibility	Canadian citizens & permanent residents
Placement Locations	Ghana, Tanzania, Uganda
Application Deadlines	February 2, 2025 (May cohort), June 2, 2025 (September cohort)
Financial Support	Fully funded (Flight, visa, insurance, stipend)
Post-Fellowship Opportunities	Career mentoring, networking, alumni programs
Official Website	YCI HerStart Fellowship

What is the HerStart International Fellowship?

The HerStart Fellowship is an initiative by Youth Challenge International (YCI), a non-profit organization that focuses on sustainable development and youth leadership. This program enables early-career professionals, recent graduates, and students to work directly with women-led enterprises in Africa, contributing to their growth and success.

Participants will engage in various projects, including business development, mentorship, research, and marketing, ultimately supporting social and economic progress in these regions.

Why Apply for the HerStart Fellowship?

This fellowship is a game-changing opportunity for individuals seeking hands-on experience in international development and social entrepreneurship. Key benefits include:

• Fully Funded Experience: Covers airfare, visa expenses, living stipends, and health insurance.
• Global Networking: Connect with professionals, industry experts, and like-minded peers from different backgrounds.
• Professional Growth: Gain expertise in leadership, cross-cultural collaboration, and business mentorship.
• Real-World Impact: Contribute directly to women’s economic empowerment and sustainable business models.
• Post-Fellowship Career Support: Access YCI’s alumni network, mentorship programs, and international job opportunities.

Fellowship Roles and Opportunities

HerStart Fellows can choose from various roles, depending on their skills and career aspirations:

1. Program & Partnerships Fellow

• Collaborate with local NGOs and community organizations.
• Develop and implement entrepreneurship training programs for women.

2. Communications & Marketing Fellow

• Create content for social media and outreach campaigns.
• Develop storytelling projects highlighting successful women entrepreneurs.

3. Research & Learning Fellow

• Conduct impact assessments, data collection, and reporting.
• Assist in grant writing and fundraising efforts for social projects.

4. Social Entrepreneurship Fellow

• Provide mentorship and business coaching to women entrepreneurs.
• Help develop scalable and sustainable business models.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the HerStart International Fellowship 2025, applicants must:

• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
• Have strong proficiency in English (written and spoken).
• Be enrolled in or a graduate of a post-secondary institution.
• Demonstrate an interest in international development, entrepreneurship, and women’s empowerment.
• Have access to a personal laptop for work-related activities.
• Be willing to commit to the full program duration.
• Participate in fundraising for the HerStart Catalyst Fund (assisted by YCI).

Benefits of the Fellowship

The HerStart Fellowship offers numerous advantages, making it a valuable step in your professional journey:

1. Comprehensive Financial Support

• Fully covered travel expenses (flights, visas, insurance).
• Monthly living stipend to cover accommodation and daily needs.

2. Professional Development & Training

• Workshops and mentorship programs on business development and leadership.
• Training in cross-cultural communication and impact measurement.

3. Making a Real-World Impact

• Direct involvement in empowering women entrepreneurs.
• Contribution to sustainable economic solutions in local communities.

4. Post-Fellowship Career Growth

• Access to mentorship, networking, and alumni programs.
• Increased career opportunities in international development, social impact, and entrepreneurship.

How to Apply for the HerStart Fellowship 2025

Follow these step-by-step instructions to submit a successful application:

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

• Access the HerStart International Fellowship page and review program details.

Step 2: Choose Your Fellowship Role

• Select the position that aligns with your skills and career goals.

Step 3: Prepare Application Documents

• Resume (CV) showcasing your experience and skills.
• Cover Letter explaining your motivation and suitability for the fellowship.
• References from professors, employers, or mentors.

Step 4: Submit the Online Application

• Fill out the official YCI application form and attach required documents.
• Review everything before submitting.

Step 5: Attend an Interview

• If shortlisted, you’ll be invited for a virtual interview to discuss your skills, interests, and expectations.

Step 6: Receive Your Offer & Prepare for Departure

• If selected, you will receive an official acceptance letter.
• Complete pre-departure training, fundraising for the HerStart Catalyst Fund, and required paperwork.

Experiences of Past Fellows

Many past HerStart Fellows have successfully transitioned into careers in international development, entrepreneurship, and social impact organizations. They have described the program as life-changing, eye-opening, and instrumental in shaping their professional paths.

One past fellow shared:

“The HerStart Fellowship gave me invaluable hands-on experience. Working with women entrepreneurs in Ghana not only strengthened my leadership skills but also gave me a deeper understanding of social impact work.”

Final Thoughts

The HerStart International Fellowship 2025 is an unparalleled opportunity to gain international experience, contribute to meaningful change, and accelerate your career in global development. If you’re ready to make an impact, apply now and take the first step towards a transformative journey!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can apply for the HerStart International Fellowship?

The fellowship is open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents who have a strong interest in international development, women’s empowerment, and entrepreneurship.

2. Do I need prior experience in entrepreneurship or social impact?

No, but relevant academic background or volunteer/work experience in related fields is an asset.

3. Is the fellowship fully funded?

Yes, it covers all major expenses, including flights, visas, health insurance, and a monthly stipend.

4. How competitive is the selection process?

The program is highly competitive, so a strong application with clear motivations and relevant experience increases your chances.

5. What happens after completing the fellowship?

Fellows receive mentorship, career support, and access to the YCI alumni network, opening doors to international career opportunities.