Climate, Gender Equality & Social Innovation

Positions: HerStart International Fellowships
Program: HerStart, a program of Youth Challenge International
Location: Tanzania, Uganda or Ghana

Summary: Join HerStart for a professional fellowship, advancing global gender equality, climate action and social innovation. Receive a benefits package to travel and collaborate with dynamic organizations and women entrepreneurs in Ghana, Tanzania or Uganda.

• Type: International placements with benefits, support package, fundraising contribution (see: FAQ for more info)
• Expenses covered: YCI covers costs incl. airfare, monthly allowance to cover basic living costs including accommodation, more (see: FAQ)
• Eligibility: Canadian citizen or permanent resident. Individuals from all gender, academic and professional backgrounds are welcome and encouraged to apply. The program is primarily designed for those between the ages of 20-35. | Details
• Language: English (see below)
• Length of Placements: 3 months
• Start Dates: January or May 2026
• Time Commitment: Full-time
• Location: Ghana, Tanzania or Uganda
• Application Deadline: September 30 (January cohort); March 2 (May cohort). Positions are offered on a rolling basis – apply early!

About Youth Challenge International

Youth Challenge International (YCI) is accelerating youth innovation for good. Together with young leaders and innovators, we are creating a better future where people, planet, and profit can thrive. We are going all in on the bold ideas, skills, and ventures that will get us there. In over 30 countries, YCI has teamed up with young people and partner organizations to transform complex challenges into sustainable solutions; collectively, we learn fast, fail smart, and turn insights into action. We believe that a better world can – and will – be built by the next generation.

About the HerStart Program

YCI’s HerStart: Innovate the Future program delivers dynamic entrepreneurship and leadership training, mentorship and seed funding for young women to build businesses with positive community impact in Ghana, Tanzania and Uganda. We co-design and co-implement HerStart with local partners in each country, who contribute their unique expertise and advance their own organizational learning. We also leverage the energy and skills of Canadian volunteers through the International Fellowship program, advancing the personal and professional development of young professionals and students.

HerStart Fellows take on 3-month international placements, contributing to YCI’s mission while developing in-demand skills, networks and practical experience. Each International Fellow receives a holistic benefits package, which includes round-trip airfare, visas, health insurance, a monthly stipend and much more.

3-month fellowship opportunities include:

• Program & Partnerships Fellow
• Communications & Marketing Fellow
• Research & Learning Fellow
• Social Entrepreneurship Fellow

A focus on Gender Equality, Climate Action, Innovation or Human Rights may be integrated into the roles depending on project needs and your skills/interests.

Eligibility Requirements

Full requirements and desired qualifications for HerStart Fellows are listed for each position on the HerStart Opportunities page. The key eligibility must-haves for all positions include:

• Canadian citizen or permanent resident
• Fluent or professional level English skills (written and verbal)
• Interest in the fields of international development, gender equality, climate action and/or social entrepreneurship
• Enrolled in or graduated from a post-secondary institution (or equivalent work experience)
• Access to a personal computer for duration of placement
• Ability to commit to full length of placement on a full-time basis, including a week of pre-departure training online
• Contribute to the HerStart Catalyst Fund by reaching the fundraising goal before departure with support from the YCI team
• Note that individuals from all gender, academic and professional backgrounds are welcome and encouraged to apply

Why become a HerStart Fellow?

• Gain professional global experience: Engage in a high-quality international volunteer program with YCI – an organization with 40+ years of experience. The Fellowship program includes comprehensive pre-departure training before you go, as well as ongoing health and safety and reintegration support.
• Contribute to women’s economic empowerment: Connect and collaborate with young women, communities and partners, meaningfully contributing your time to expand the social entrepreneurship ecosystem in Ghana, Tanzania or Uganda.
• Amplify your personal and professional growth: Participate in unique opportunities to boost your CV and build transferable skills, such as cross-cultural communication, project management, adaptability and more.
• Access in-demand training and resources: Learn from our staff and partners who are subject matter experts in their fields, including gender equality, social innovation and climate action.
• Join a thriving network: Connect with like-minded, passionate people around the globe. Members of our network will also have first access to future YCI opportunities and resources.

For more information about the HerStart International Fellowship program and benefits, including the expenses covered by YCI, please review the fellowship FAQ page here!

YCI’s HerStart: Innovate the Future program is funded in part by the Government of Canada, providing skilled Canadians opportunities to volunteer abroad with global partners and advance Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy.

For more information on the program and roles please visit: yci.org/herstart/fellowships

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