About Adinkra Fellowship
The Adinkra Fellowship unites a dynamic group of exceptional leaders aged 40 and under from Africa and African diaspora communities each year, representing diverse sectors.
This unique fellowship is committed to building constructive ties between Africa and the African Diaspora.
The fellowship selects candidates with remarkable achievements, driven by talent, passion, and values that inspire transformative change in their communities and across black communities globally. Fellows participate in two transformative trips to different countries, engaging in a leadership program designed to build bridges, cultivate lasting relationships and inspire transformative action.
Fellows and alumni form a vibrant, interconnected network passionately committed to bridging the divide between black communities, to the transformation of their communities and building a better future for all.
Additionally, the “Adinkra Achievement Lists” independently celebrate outstanding changemakers of Black and minority descent across various sectors, honoring their excellence and contributions to progress.
+ Does "ADINKRA" mean something
Adinkra symbols, originating from Ghana, embody timeless values like integrity, resilience, and unity. These powerful visual expressions of wisdom inspire the Adinkra Fellowship, reflecting our commitment to fostering connection, driving transformative change, and sharing universal human values with the world.
+ Who is eligible
We invite rising leaders aged 40 and under from Africa’s 54 nations or the global African Diaspora—African American, Afro-Caribbean, Afro-Latinx, Black Canadian, and beyond. If you’re driving change and ready to connect, join us to amplify your impact.
The
Fellowship
Programme.
Here’s what to expect when you join the Adinkra Fellowship.
Fellows will convene during two transformative trips: one in an African country and one in a country with strong African heritage. These trips feature thought-provoking discussions on the state of Africa and the Diaspora, a mentorship program connecting fellows with lifelong mentors, "Meet the Leader" sessions with prominent figures, visits to significant cultural sites and innovative organizations, skills-building workshops, team-building activities, and an awards ceremony.
Between trips, fellows collaborate in small groups (3-5) to design innovative solutions addressing critical challenges in black communities. Projects are submitted as dissertations for peer review. The top one or two initiatives will receive funding and resources for pilot implementation, with potential to evolve into transformative, long-term programs or organizations.
Upon completing the programme, fellows will be
required to organize an experience sharing event at a
university or institution of learning to discuss their
values, journey, impact and inspire a wider audience
of students, faculty, and other stakeholders.
Fellows return to play active roles in their
respective communities, countries and spheres of
influence. Part of our network of global leaders, all
Fellows will receive invitations to attend alumni
events and ongoing opportunities to deepen their
impact.
+ How does the selection work
An open call invites applications and nominations, followed by a transparent selection process led by a dedicated jury. The inaugural Adinkra Fellowship in 2026 will select 20 to 40 exceptional rising leaders to join this transformative program.
Whowe are
Adinkra Alliance Institute is a US 501(c)(3) charitable
organization.
Members of our founding team previously organized
"the Africa 35.35 Awards", an initiative to recognize youth
excellence under 35 in Africa and inspire other individuals to become
changemakers. Adinkra is building on this legacy with a renewed
and differentiated ambition.
The impact in 5 years of organizing the Africa 35.35 Awards:
- More than 2,000 applications were received from 44 countries.
- More than 110 personalities have served in the Jury.
- More than 800 press articles, web, and TV reports from 120 media.
- More than 6 million interactions (likes, shares and feedbacks) on social networks.
- A community of 197 rising leaders.
Our past Accomplishments in videos
Our
Partners
Get
Involved
We welcome your interest in becoming a funder, a technical partner, a media partner, an individual supporter or cheerleader, please contact us through the form below.