Harvard LEAD Fellowship for Promoting Women in Global Health 20272028 Applications are now open, The LEAD Fellowship, which stands for Learn, Engage, Advance, Disrupt, is a fully funded, one-year leadership development programme designed for global health professionals from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). It gives professionals an opportunity to step away from their demanding day-to-day responsibilities, reflect on their experiences, strengthen their leadership skills, and explore new ways to make a difference in global health.

The programme is tailored to each Fellow’s individual goals, interests, and professional aspirations, ensuring that the experience is relevant to their personal and career growth. Beyond developing their own leadership abilities, Fellows are also expected to support and mentor the next generation of women leaders in global health, helping create a more inclusive and supportive healthcare community.

So far, the LEAD Fellowship has brought together approximately 25–26 Fellows from 21–22 countries, creating a diverse network of professionals who can share experiences, learn from one another, and work towards meaningful change in global health.

If you’re interested in this prestigious fellowship program, we encourage you to read the article carefully and follow the application guidelines closely. Make sure to review all eligibility criteria and submit your application within the specified timeline.

Last Date of Application: 15th November 2026

Harvard LEAD Fellowship for Promoting Women in Global Health 20272028 Applications are now open

Programme Structure

The LEAD Fellowship runs for one year, from 1 September 2027 to 31 August 2028, and combines virtual learning with an in-person experience at Harvard University. The programme is designed to help global health professionals strengthen their leadership skills while staying connected to their professional responsibilities.

• Fall 2027 – Virtual Phase: Fellows take part in online activities with a relatively light time commitment, allowing them to continue working in their current roles while engaging with the programme.
• Spring 2028 – In-Person Residency: Fellows are expected to attend a six-week residential programme in Cambridge, Massachusetts, likely in April 2028. This period offers an opportunity to focus more deeply on leadership development, connect with Harvard faculty, and learn alongside other global health professionals.

Harvard LEAD Fellowship for Promoting Women in Global Health 20272028 Applications are now open

What Fellows Get

The LEAD Fellowship offers personalised guidance, practical learning opportunities, and access to experienced leaders to help participants grow professionally and make a greater impact in global health.

• Individual leadership coaching: One-on-one executive coaching, including an assessment of each Fellow’s leadership style and a 360-degree Leadership Versatility Index (LVI) assessment.
• Mentorship from Harvard faculty: Personalised mentoring from Harvard faculty members, with monthly meetings encouraged to support ongoing development.
• Global speaking opportunities: Chances to speak at global health events, share professional experiences, and contribute to important conversations in the field.
• Executive education: Access to an executive education course, such as Women and Power at Harvard Kennedy School.
• Leadership masterclasses: Special sessions covering practical leadership skills, including negotiation, public speaking, crisis management, and conflict resolution.

Eligibility Criteria

The fellowship is intended for experienced global health professionals who are ready to take their leadership abilities to the next level and contribute to positive change in their home countries. Applicants should meet the following requirements:

• Educational qualification: A master’s degree or higher in a relevant field is required.
• Professional experience: Applicants must be working full-time in global health and have at least 10 years of professional experience. Experience gained while studying at university does not count towards this requirement.
• Current location: Applicants must currently live or work in a low- or middle-income country (LMIC) and plan to return there after completing the fellowship.
• Employer support: Applicants must have their employer’s full support and identify a champion within their organisation who can serve as a reference.
• Availability for residency: Fellows must be willing and able to take leave from their home institution to attend the six-week residency in April 2028.
• Visa and travel readiness: Applicants must be eligible for a J-1 visa and able to stay in Cambridge or Boston, Massachusetts, for the duration of the residency.
• Previous fellowships: Applicants must not have participated in a full-time fellowship lasting four months or longer during the two years immediately before this fellowship.
• Leadership experience: Candidates should have substantial leadership experience and demonstrate the potential to grow further and influence the global health sector.
• Gender eligibility: Applicants of all genders and gender identities are welcome, despite the programme’s focus on promoting women in leadership.

Note: Candidates are expected to nominate themselves rather than apply through a formal nomination by another person.

Benefits of the Fellowship

The LEAD Fellowship is fully funded, helping selected participants focus on their leadership development without having to bear the major costs of the programme.

During the six-week residency at Harvard, the fellowship covers:

• Visa-related fees.
• Accommodation in the Cambridge or Boston area.
• Round-trip flights.
• Course and programme fees.
• A living stipend to help cover daily expenses, including food and local transportation.

Beyond financial assistance, Fellows gain access to Harvard faculty, an experienced mentorship network, and a community of alumni working across global health. These connections can continue to support their professional growth long after the fellowship ends.

Application Requirements

Applicants need to submit a set of documents that highlights their professional journey, leadership goals, and plans for creating a lasting impact. The required materials include:

1. CV or résumé: A clear overview of professional experience, educational background, achievements, and leadership responsibilities.
2. Letter of Intent: A statement of up to 1.5 pages explaining the applicant’s motivation for joining the fellowship and what they hope to achieve.
3. Four short essays: Each essay must be no longer than 2,000 characters and should address the following areas:
   • Career development plan.
   • Proposed project plan.
   • Plan for mentoring others.
   • Expected impact on the applicant’s organisation, professional field, and home country.
4. Letter of Institutional Commitment: A letter confirming the employer’s support and the applicant’s ability to take leave for the six-week residency in April 2028.
5. Letter of Mentor Commitment: A letter confirming the commitment of the proposed mentor.
6. Two additional reference letters: At least one must come from the applicant’s current or most recent employer. This reference must be from someone other than the person providing the mentor commitment letter.

Applicants should prepare their documents carefully, ensuring that their leadership experience, future goals, and commitment to improving global health are clearly presented.

The LEAD Fellowship offers experienced professionals a valuable opportunity to reflect on their leadership journey, learn from experts at Harvard, and return to their organisations and communities with stronger skills, fresh perspectives, and a renewed commitment to developing future leaders in global health.

<<<<Apply Here Now>>>>

Learn more about the Fellowship Program

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can apply for the LEAD Fellowship?

The LEAD Fellowship is open to professionals working full-time in global health who have at least 10 years of professional experience and hold a master’s degree or higher in a relevant field. Applicants must currently live or work in a low- or middle-income country (LMIC), demonstrate leadership potential, and plan to return to that country after completing the fellowship.

2. How long does the LEAD Fellowship last?

The fellowship runs for one year, from 1 September 2027 to 31 August 2028. It begins with a virtual phase in fall 2027, allowing Fellows to continue working in their current roles, followed by a six-week in-person residency at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, expected to take place in April 2028.

3. Is the LEAD Fellowship fully funded?

Yes, the LEAD Fellowship is fully funded. During the six-week residency, selected Fellows receive support for visa fees, round-trip flights, accommodation, course fees, and a living stipend to help cover daily expenses such as food and local transportation.

4. What documents are required to apply for the LEAD Fellowship?

Applicants must submit a CV or résumé, a Letter of Intent of up to 1.5 pages, and four short essays covering their career development plans, proposed project, mentoring plans, and expected impact. They must also provide a Letter of Institutional Commitment, a Letter of Mentor Commitment, and two additional reference letters, including at least one from their current or most recent employer.

5. Can applicants of all genders apply for the LEAD Fellowship?

Yes. Despite its focus on promoting women in global health leadership, the fellowship welcomes applicants of all genders and gender identities. Candidates are expected to apply independently, demonstrate meaningful leadership experience, and show a commitment to mentoring future women leaders in global health.

No more Google search, join our Whats App Channel and get alerts as soon as we publish a post.

Hey, STEAL our Best Premium Content For Absolutely Free, Check Out the Links below

HOPE these will add value to your existing skills and knowledge.

Our information bears no cost (it’s absolutely FREE), don’t let valuable information slip away.

Join our community of avid readers who are always in the know. Subscribe to our website; stay connected and engaged with the latest news, trends, and developments by subscribing today.

(PUSH the bell ICON)

Leverage the power of knowledge to propel your organization to new heights. Don’t miss out – explore our content

1. Latest Funds for NGOs,
2. NGO Jobs
3. Resources (Helpful Guides and Courses)
4. Premium Resources
5. NGO related articles

NGO Grants, NGO Jobs, NGO Resources & Nonprofit Fellowships – Empowering Your Mission (ngoscope.com)

Sharing is appreciated