Tostan has officially opened applications for the second cohort of the Cheikh Anta Diop Fellowship for Community-Led Development. The program targets young professionals and initiative leaders working across a wide range of community development fields—including health, education, the environment, governance, human rights, youth engagement, economic inclusion, and social cohesion.
These young leaders often have a solid grasp of their respective sectors. They possess expertise, drive, and ongoing projects. However, the ultimate success of their work relies on a critical, cross-cutting capability that is rarely taught: building trust-based relationships with communities and genuinely working alongside them.
The Cheikh Anta Diop Fellowship equips young leaders with a participatory educational approach that places communities at the heart of their own development. The program builds concrete skills to:
- Establish trust rooted in active listening and mutual respect;
- Understand local realities, aspirations, and existing community assets;
- Facilitate inclusive dialogue where every voice is heard;
- Co-design projects and solutions directly with the people affected;
- Support communities without taking over or deciding for them.
- Accompagner les communautés sans agir ni décider à leur place.
The program spans four months. It begins with an intensive 10-day residential seminar at the Tostan Training Center in Thiès, Senegal, followed by three months of mentoring, peer-to-peer learning, and individualized support.
Who Can Apply?
Young leaders aged 18 to 35 who are serving communities, active within an association, community initiative, NGO, social enterprise, civil society organization, public institution, or international organization, and available to complete the full four-month program, including the 10-day residential training, are eligible to apply.
Applications close on August 2, 2026.