AFC Fellowship – Climate Challenge Leadership Programme in 2025 – Building Bridges Between Global North & South

About the AFC Fellowship

The Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) Fellowship, in collaboration with Common Purpose, is a transformative leadership development program designed to bridge the gap between emerging leaders from Africa, the wider global South, and the global North. Focusing on shared climate challenges and other critical global issues, the fellowship empowers dynamic leaders to drive sustainable change and make a tangible impact on the world stage. Now in its third year, the AFC Fellowship continues to build on the success of the previous cohorts, with over 90 fellows having participated globally.

Impact & Success Stories

• 98% of participants would recommend the Fellowship to others.

• 92% of participants feel better equipped to serve as a bridge between the global North and South.

• 99% of participants report feeling more prepared to have a positive impact within their organizations and communities.

Quote from Samaila Zubairu, President & CEO, Africa Finance Corporation:

“For far too long, Africa has been viewed by the rest of the world as a place of ‘problems’… I believe Africa holds the solutions to many of the fundamental problems afflicting the world today.”

How the AFC Fellowship Works

To join the AFC Fellowship, candidates must first be accepted into the Climate Challenge Leadership Programme, a multi-faceted development track designed to foster leadership that transcends boundaries.

Key Elements of the Programme:

1. Leading Beyond Authority: Fellows are introduced to the concept of ‘Leading Beyond Authority,’ equipping them with the skills needed to solve complex global challenges by working across boundaries.

2. Climate Challenge: Participants engage in a collaborative approach to tackling climate change, allowing them to propose innovative solutions and strategies for addressing global environmental issues.

Who Should Apply?

The AFC Fellowship is aimed at emerging leaders with at least 5 years of professional experience. Applicants should demonstrate a strong commitment to making a positive impact, have leadership potential, and be passionate about addressing climate issues and bridging the divide between the global North and South.

Fellows come from a diverse range of sectors, backgrounds, and countries. The program is ideal for motivated individuals eager to connect, learn, and collaborate toward solving some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

Fellow Testimonials

• Sharmita Paul, Fellow & Senior Customer Success Manager, Terragon:
  “The global North and the global South have common agendas when it comes to climate change – we just need to come together and collaborate to do this. Whether it’s a small sustainable project or leading climate policy change, collaboration is key.”

• Magook Daniel Mayom Lueth, Programme Associate, FAO:
  “The AFC Fellowship has deepened my understanding of carbon markets, climate change, and leadership – particularly the power of leading beyond authority. It has equipped me with the tools to influence change in South Sudan and Africa.”

• Yitemgeta Fantu Golla, Chief Technical Officer, TM Geothermal Operations Plc:
  “I’ve found more than just a platform to address climate issues; I’ve discovered a community of visionaries. Together, we’re building change, one sustainable idea at a time.”

Why Participate in the AFC Fellowship?

Participants of the AFC Fellowship will gain the following benefits:

• Enhanced Leadership Skills: Learn to lead across boundaries and tackle complex challenges with a global perspective.

• New Networks: Connect with a diverse cohort of leaders, contributors, and decision-makers from the global North and South.

• Creative & Analytical Skills: Engage in new approaches to innovation and problem-solving.

• Influence & Impact: Develop the confidence to present your ideas to senior decision-makers and drive impactful solutions.

• Innovative Solutions: Collaborate to create actionable strategies for addressing climate challenges and promoting global sustainability.

Fellow Testimonials (continued)

• Ambar van der Wath, Investor Relations, Baobab Network:
  “The AFC Fellowship was a vibrant experience that challenged my assumptions and highlighted my strengths. Each session left me feeling inspired and more curious to apply these learnings in both my personal and professional life.”

• Tukwatanise Bonnita, Programme Coordinator, Treescape Planet Organization:
  “Being part of the AFC Fellowship has equipped me with the tools and perspectives needed to tackle pressing climate challenges, providing me a platform to collaborate with brilliant minds across Africa.”

• Erin Maher, Sustainability Strategist & Advisor, ENSP Initiatives:
  “I learned so much and connected with passionate, intelligent individuals. Their energy and expertise left me feeling optimistic about solving today’s challenges.”

Application Process & Key Dates

Applications are now open! Don’t miss the chance to join the AFC Fellowship and become part of this global leadership initiative.

Important Dates:

• Deadline: Sunday, 21 September 2025 (Midnight BST)

• Webinar #1: 3 September 2025, 11:00 BST (London)

• Webinar #2: 9 September 2025, 14:00 BST (London)

Programme Format & Details:

• Mode: Online (Live sessions on Zoom, 24/7 access to resources)

• Cost: Free (Funded by Africa Finance Corporation)

• Language: English (Proficiency in written and spoken English required)

2025 Fellowship Schedule:

• 3 November 2025: Online platform opens (3 hours independent online learning)

• 19 November 2025: Fellowship launch (1.5 hours live session on Zoom)

• December 2025 – January 2026: Leading Beyond Authority & Climate Challenge sessions (varied dates and durations)

• February 2026: Learning & Action Planning session (1.5 hours live session on Zoom)

• February 2026: Challenge presentation to AFC

• March 2026: Fellows gathering (2 hours live session on Zoom)

How to Apply:

• Visit the application page on the Common Purpose website.

• Register for one of the informational webinars to learn more.

• Complete the application by the deadline, ensuring you meet the criteria for participation.

About Common Purpose and AFC

• Common Purpose: A leadership development organization with over 125,000 alumni worldwide, Common Purpose specializes in cross-boundary leadership to tackle complex global issues.

• Africa Finance Corporation (AFC): Established in 2007, AFC is a leading infrastructure and industrial investment partner across Africa, focusing on sustainable economic growth through projects in power, resources, industry, transport, and telecommunications.

For more information, please visit: https://commonpurpose.org/the-afc-fellowship