The Clooney Foundation for Justice is recruiting its 2027 CFJ fellows. The programme combines legal work with professional development for women lawyers committed to advancing women’s rights.
Key details
| Programme | January–December 2027, full-time |
|---|---|
| Placements | Kenya, Malawi, The Gambia and South Africa |
| Deadline | 20 October 2026 |
Benefits and support
Fellows receive a competitive salary in local currency, mentorship, training and a convening. The official page does not advertise a universal salary figure.
Who can apply?
The call targets early-career African women lawyers. Applicants need a recognised law degree, admission to practise and work rights in their proposed host country, alongside English fluency. The FAQ describes the target as fewer than five years of post-admission professional experience, while the qualifications section says up to five years. Applicants at the boundary should ask CFJ to confirm eligibility before submitting. Relocation and work-authorisation costs are not covered.
How to apply
Use the application route on CFJ’s fellowship page. Match your experience to the country placement and confirm that you can undertake the full-year commitment.
Read the programme information and application instructions
Preparing a focused application
Before drafting, choose two examples showing how you used legal skills to solve a real problem. Explain your own contribution, the people or process involved and the result. Protect client confidentiality: remove identifying information and avoid sharing privileged documents. A short, specific explanation of your interest in women’s access to justice is more useful than a general statement about wanting international experience. Check that your CV dates and application responses agree, and keep a copy of the submission.
Frequently asked question
Does the fellowship cover relocation?
CFJ states that relocation and work-authorisation expenses are not covered.
Information checked on 3 October 2026. Review the provider’s current instructions before submitting. Opportunities Feed is an independent publisher.
Plan your submission
Our advice is to review the proposed host’s work before explaining why you want the placement. Choose a realistic area where your existing research, drafting or case-management experience could be useful. Avoid disclosing clients’ identities when illustrating your experience, and obtain appropriate permission before sharing any work sample.
Make a final check of dates, professional admission details and document versions. Ask a trusted reviewer whether the application clearly distinguishes your personal contribution from team achievements. Keep a copy of the submitted material and any acknowledgement.
Keywords: CFJ Fellowship 2027, Clooney Foundation for Justice, women lawyers fellowship, gender justice, paid legal fellowship.
