About this Program
The Hurford Youth Fellowship Program seeks to build the leadership skills and harness the potential of young democracy activists from around the world. Through the Program, young activists spend three months at the World Movement’s Secretariat, during which they expand their global connections, share experiences with other activists from democracy movements around the world, and contribute to the development of the World Movement for Democracy. Hurford Youth Fellows engage in strategic meetings; conduct research; and organize and lead presentations, online discussions, and information-sharing sessions on key democracy issues.
Eligibility
- Applicants interested in the Hurford Youth Fellows Program must be no older than 30 years of age.
- They must demonstrate a strong interest in democratic activism and in the advancement of democracy in their respective communities, as well as worldwide. Youth affiliated with civil society organizations are especially encouraged to apply.
- A working knowledge of English is an important prerequisite for participation in the program for general communication purposes. All application materials must be submitted in English.
Duties
Each Fellow will engage in the following activities:
- Conduct research on a topic related to the democracy themes above
- Develop online resources, such as a collection of related publications and training materials
- Facilitate online discussions
- Contribute to the World Movement social media posts
- Take part in planning and implementing other activities of the World Movement
- Participate in relevant events and discussions in Washington, D.C., to deepen understanding of issues and build working relationships
- Identify, compile, present, and creatively share discussion materials and results.
Each fellow will also make at least one formal presentation of their work during their fellowship. Presentations may be open to the public or geared to a more select audience and will typically focus on the fellow’s project topic.
Upon the successful completion of each fellowship at NED, the fellow will serve as a regional/country focal point, working with the Hurford Youth Fellowship Alumni Network to remain involved and take the lead in facilitating World Movement for Democracy youth initiatives.
Selection Process
Fellows will be selected by the World Movement Secretariat staff, NED regional program staff, and the Hurford Youth Fellowship Alumni Network following an application process. Selection will be based on a set of criteria including demonstrated activism or interest in the advance- ment of democracy, a desire to network with others, and a clear explanation of how the fellowship will benefit their own efforts for advancing democracy.
