| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | January 11, 2026 |
| Fellowship Start | Expected early 2026 (following selection) |
| Fellowship Duration | 6 months (remote) |
Introduction
The WanaData Fellowships 2026: Digitalise Youth Voices in Africa is a competitive, stipend-supported fellowship program designed to strengthen youth engagement in civic technology, data journalism, and gender-focused data storytelling across Africa. Hosted by Code for Africa (CfA), this initiative supports practitioners who are passionate about digital rights, gender equity, and civic participation. The fellowship equips selected fellows with skills, mentorship, and networking opportunities to create impactful content that amplifies the voices of young people across the Sahel region, neighbouring West Africa, and the Horn of Africa.
Eligibility
To be considered for the WanaData Fellowships, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Professional Experience:- Be a registered member of the WanaData community with at least one year of professional experience as a data scientist or data storyteller including data journalists, media content creators, and related practitioners. A portfolio of published work is required.
- Geographic Focus: – Ideally, be based in the Sahel region, neighbouring West Africa, or the Horn of Africa. Exceptional candidates from other African regions may also be considered.
- Language Skills:- Demonstrate fluency in English or French. Bilingual proficiency is an advantage.
- Thematic Interest:- Show strong interest in digital rights, gender issues, youth civic engagement, and related topics such as cybersecurity, e-democracy, and human rights.
Additional Requirements
- Experience in gender data research.
- Ability to track contributions and submit reports efficiently.
- Willingness to participate in mentorship, training, and outreach activities.
- Compliance with WanaData’s policies on attribution, privacy, and community conduct.
Scholarships and Awards
Selected fellows will receive the following benefits:
- Monthly Stipend: USD 250 per month for the duration of the fellowship (six months).
- Technical and Data Tools Training: Hands-on training to strengthen data analysis and storytelling skills.
- One-on-One Mentorship: Personalized guidance from experienced professionals in civic technology and data journalism.
- Ongoing Community Support: Access to CfA’s Communities and Academy Team for technical assistance and networking.
In total, up to 14 fellowships will be awarded for this cohort.
How to Apply
- Confirm Eligibility: Review all eligibility criteria above and assemble your professional materials, including a portfolio of published work.
- WanaData Membership: Ensure you are a registered member of the WanaData community or join before applying.
- Complete the Online Form: Submit your application via the official fellowship application form linked on the Code for Africa website.
- Attach Supporting Materials: Upload or link to your portfolio, CV, motivation statement, and any other required documentation.
- Submit Before Deadline: Ensure your complete application is submitted no later than January 11, 2026.
Applications that lack required materials or fail to demonstrate alignment with thematic priorities may be disqualified.
Tips for a Strong Application
To increase your chances of selection:
- Highlight Civic Impact: Focus your portfolio and statements on projects that demonstrate measurable community impact, especially related to gender data and youth engagement.
- Demonstrate Technical Proficiency: Provide examples that show both data skills and storytelling competence, including infographics, visualizations, or published articles.
- Show Thematic Alignment: Tailor your application narrative to emphasize interest in digital rights, e-democracy, and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).
- Use Clear, Professional Language: Ensure all written materials are well-structured, concise, and free of errors.
- Engage Community Networks: If active in civic tech or data communities (including WanaData), mention collaborative or leadership roles.
Conclusion
The WanaData Fellowships 2026 present an excellent opportunity for early-career data journalists, data scientists, and content creators committed to amplifying youth voices and addressing digital inequalities across Africa. This fellowship not only provides financial support but also professional development, mentorship, and access to a pan-African civic tech community. Eligible applicants who align their work with the program’s themes especially gender data, digital rights, and civic engagement — are strongly encouraged to apply before the January 11, 2026 deadline.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION
