Griots Fellowship 2026 for African Changemakers

Deadline: Unspecified

Applications for the Griots Fellowship 2026 are now open. This is a leadership and storytelling program that equips African changemakers with the skills to shape and reclaim their continent’s narrative. Inspired by TED Talks and the West African Griot tradition.

2026 theme: “Stories that will Define our Future”

The Griots Fellowship honors Africa’s ancient tradition of storytelling while equipping modern-day narrators with the skills, platforms, and networks to shape authentic African narratives in a globalized world.

Named after the traditional West African storytellers who preserved history and culture through oral tradition, this fellowship supports journalists, writers, filmmakers, artists, and cultural practitioners who are crafting the stories that define Africa’s present and future. Through intensive training, creative projects, and collaborative learning, Fellows develop both their craft and their leadership capacity as cultural changemakers.

The fellowship is structured around three core tracks — Journalism & Media, Creative Arts, and Cultural Heritage — that equip fellows with the tools to tell Africa’s stories authentically. Through in-person residencies, online workshops, and independent creative projects, fellows engage deeply with narrative strategy, media production, and cultural leadership.

Eligibility

They are looking for storytellers, journalists, and cultural practitioners who are committed to shaping authentic African narratives.

• Age: Between 25-45 years old
• Experience: At least 3 years as a journalist, writer, filmmaker, or cultural practitioner
• Portfolio: Published work, films, or projects demonstrating storytelling abilities
• Geography: African citizen or person of African descent
• Commitment: Dedicated to shaping authentic African narratives
• Project Proposal: Clear concept for a storytelling project

Application

Click here to apply

For more information, visit Griots Fellowship.