Welcome to the YIL Fellowship 2025 Application Portal!
Who are we looking for?
We are looking for Africa’s next generation of bold, innovative, and solution-driven leaders—individuals who are not just talented but also deeply committed to creating impact. The ideal candidate is between 20 and 35 years old, holds at least a bachelor’s degree, and possesses expertise in a hard skill or specialized field that can be leveraged for problem-solving and value creation. We seek individuals who demonstrate excellence, leadership potential, and a passion for innovation, whether in technology, business, healthcare, engineering, policy, or any other domain. If you are curious, adaptable, and ready to challenge the status quo, then this fellowship is for you. Show us how you think, how you create, and how you lead—and you just might be one of the exceptional minds selected for the YIL Fellowship 2025!
Congratulations on taking the first step toward becoming a Young Innovation Leader! The YIL Fellowship is a highly competitive program designed to equip Africa’s brightest minds with the skills, mindset, and network to drive impactful innovation.
HOW TO APPLY
The application process is designed to identify outstanding individuals who have the potential to lead innovation and create real change. You will go through multiple stages, with each stage unlocking new opportunities as you progress. At this point, focus on completing the current stage with thoughtful, clear, and compelling responses. If you advance, you will receive further instructions on the next steps.
Take your time, be authentic, and show us why you’re ready for this journey!
DEADLINE: 14th March 2025
2025 YIL Calendar
Explore YIL activities for the 2025 fellowship year. Note that all activities are virtual except the Induction Bootcamp which is hybrid with a physical event in Abuja.