Deadline: July 27, 2026
Applications are open for the Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity (AFSE) Fellowship 2027. The Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity (AFSE) is a transformative Indigenous and Pacific-centred fellowship program based at the University of Melbourne and supported by Waipapa Taumata Rau University of Auckland. They are building a dynamic network of Indigenous leaders and allies committed to driving Indigenous-led social change across Australia, Aotearoa New Zealand, and Pacific Island nations.
AFSE is built on a simple premise: Indigenous and Pacific Peoples have the answers to their own communities’ needs but also the world’s. The fellowship program is designed for mid-career, community-focused individuals with a bias for action. They seek leaders ready to transform bold ideas into real-world initiatives that advance social equity for Indigenous peoples. Whether you’re working in community organisations, government, business, healthcare, or the arts, AFSE can help bolster your impact by offering new connections, resources, and support. The goal is to see more Indigenous and Pacific Leaders confidently driving systems change needed to create a more just and equitable world.
Benefits
- AFSE covers all travel expenses for the in-person sessions, which are held across Australia, Aotearoa New Zealand, and the Pacific Island region, with select experiences hosted in Indigenous and Pacific communities.
Eligibility
- Be a citizen or permanent resident of Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia, or a Pacific Island nation
- Undergraduate degree OR 5 – 8 years of social change work experience (typically mid-career senior professionals.)
- Cannot be enrolled in other educational programs or have a thesis under examination as of January 2027
- Not currently participating in any Atlantic Fellowship programs
- Proficient in English and can satisfy the University’s English Language entry-requirements
Core Competencies
- Project Experience: Demonstrated ability to turn ideas into action
- Community Connection: Evidence of successful collaboration with communities to create meaningful change
- Teamwork Skills: Strong ability to work effectively with others
- Learning abilities: Critical thinking, communication, creativity, strategic planning, and interpersonal skills. Commitment to full attendance at both intensive weeks and fortnightly tutorials between modules.
- Growth Mindset: Commitment to continuous learning and professional development
- Fellowship Readiness: Prepared to engage with and benefit from both local and global fellowship opportunities
Application
The application process is a 5-page questionnaire that asks you a range of questions to best grasp your suitability for the Fellowship Year. In order to complete your application, you will need answer and provide the following:
- General eligibility questions such as Citizenship, attendance requirements etc.
- Study/Work Experience.
- CV/Resume (No more than 2 pages.)
- Current Headshot (If you don’t have one, a clear photo of your face against a plain background is suitable.)
- A two minute or less introductory video (less than 25MB file size). Answer the below questions in your response:
- Why will this program benefit you, your community/communities, your organisation/sector and Indigenous and Pacific peoples?
- Why is this the right program for you at this point in time?
- Information regarding your social change initiative.
- Your leadership Journey and why you wish to complete further study.
- Two references (ensure you have discussed your social change initiative with the referees you provide.)
- Recommended – A formal endorsement of your social change initiative from a member of the relevant Community or Organisation. Though not compulsory, they strongly recommend submitting the completed form as part of your application.
For more information, visit AFSE Fellowship.
