The IUCN Environmental Fellowship Programme is now accepting applications from emerging environmental leaders across Africa who are passionate about protecting ocean and coastal ecosystems. Organized by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the fellowship is a flagship initiative under the Great Blue Wall Capacity Building Programme, designed to develop the next generation of conservation advocates, storytellers, and changemakers.
This fully supported leadership programme equips fellows with the knowledge, networks, and practical skills needed to champion sustainable ocean governance and amplify community-led conservation efforts across Africa.
About the Fellowship
The Great Blue Wall Fellowship is a year-long leadership development programme that empowers local environmental leaders to become influential voices for marine conservation and climate resilience.
Through expert-led training, mentorship, strategic storytelling, and advocacy, fellows will strengthen their ability to drive positive environmental change while representing their communities on national, regional, and international platforms.
The programme supports individuals working to conserve Africa’s coastal and marine ecosystems and encourages innovative, community-driven solutions to environmental challenges.
Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows will receive:
- Comprehensive leadership development training
- Advocacy and public policy engagement skills
- Strategic storytelling and communications training
- Mentorship from experienced environmental leaders
- Networking opportunities with conservation professionals
- Access to regional and international environmental platforms
- Increased visibility for community-led conservation initiatives
- Opportunities to influence environmental policy discussions
- Membership in a growing network of Great Blue Wall Fellows
- Professional development throughout the one-year programme
Programme Objectives
The fellowship aims to:
- Strengthen leadership among emerging environmental professionals.
- Promote community-based ocean conservation.
- Build advocacy skills for environmental policy engagement.
- Enhance storytelling to raise awareness about marine conservation.
- Support local solutions for climate resilience.
- Foster collaboration among African environmental leaders.
- Amplify community voices in global environmental discussions.
Who Should Apply?
The programme welcomes applications from passionate individuals who are committed to protecting marine and coastal ecosystems, including:
- Environmental professionals
- Marine conservation practitioners
- Climate advocates
- Youth leaders
- Community organizers
- Researchers
- Civil society representatives
- Conservation practitioners
- Environmental educators
- Ocean sustainability champions
Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to advancing conservation initiatives within their communities.
Areas of Focus
The fellowship supports work related to:
- Marine conservation
- Coastal ecosystem restoration
- Climate change adaptation
- Blue economy
- Sustainable fisheries
- Biodiversity conservation
- Ocean governance
- Community resilience
- Environmental advocacy
- Nature-based solutions
Leadership Development
Throughout the programme, fellows will build practical skills in:
- Strategic leadership
- Public speaking
- Advocacy and campaigning
- Policy engagement
- Communications
- Media engagement
- Community mobilization
- Project management
- Partnership development
- Environmental storytelling
Why Apply?
The IUCN Great Blue Wall Fellowship offers emerging environmental leaders a unique opportunity to accelerate their careers while contributing to one of Africa’s most ambitious ocean conservation initiatives.
Participants will gain practical leadership experience, connect with influential environmental experts, and develop the confidence to lead conservation efforts that create lasting impact across coastal communities.
The programme also provides a valuable platform for fellows to showcase their work, strengthen regional collaboration, and contribute to global conversations on biodiversity, climate resilience, and sustainable development.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should:
- Review the official Fellowship Information Brochure.
- Confirm they meet the programme’s eligibility requirements.
- Prepare all required application materials.
- Complete the online application before the published deadline.
- Monitor communications regarding the selection process.
Conclusion
The IUCN Great Blue Wall Fellowship Programme is an outstanding opportunity for emerging conservation leaders who are passionate about protecting Africa’s oceans and coastal ecosystems. Through leadership training, mentorship, advocacy, and strategic storytelling, fellows will be equipped to drive meaningful environmental change while strengthening sustainable development across the continent.
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