In a world facing complex social, political, and economic challenges, young people continue to play a vital role in shaping a more just and inclusive future.
The John Lewis Young Leaders (JLYL) Fellowship is a transformative program designed to equip undergraduate students with the leadership skills, practical experience, and moral courage needed to drive meaningful social change. Rooted in the legacy of civil rights icon Congressman John Lewis, this fellowship empowers students to turn passion into action through community organizing and human rights advocacy.
About the John Lewis Young Leaders Fellowship
The John Lewis Young Leaders Fellowship is a year-long leadership development program created to support students who are committed to civic engagement, social justice, and human rights. The fellowship focuses on experiential learning, mentorship, and real-world organizing. Participants, known as fellows, work on a capstone project that addresses a social or human rights issue impacting their campus or local community.
The program is designed not just to teach theory, but to help students actively practice leadership. Fellows gain hands-on experience in planning, implementing, and sustaining projects that create tangible community impact while developing lifelong skills in advocacy, collaboration, and ethical leadership.
Honoring the Legacy of John Lewis
The fellowship is inspired by the life and work of John Lewis, a champion of nonviolent action, democracy, and youth leadership. His belief that young people should get into “good trouble” is central to the program’s philosophy. The John Lewis Young Leaders Fellowship encourages students to challenge injustice thoughtfully and courageously, while remaining grounded in values of dignity, equity, and collective action.
By participating in the program, fellows become part of a growing community dedicated to continuing Lewis’s legacy through action-oriented leadership and civic responsibility.
Who Can Apply?
The fellowship is open to undergraduate students enrolled in accredited colleges or universities in the United States. Applicants must be students who will graduate in May 2027 or later. The program welcomes students from all academic disciplines, provided they demonstrate a strong commitment to social change, leadership, and community engagement.
Special consideration is given to students from historically marginalized communities and those attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs), and other minority-serving institutions. However, the program values diversity of background, perspective, and lived experience, making it accessible to a wide range of passionate student leaders.
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What Fellows Experience
The fellowship begins with an immersive multi-day retreat that introduces participants to organizing principles, leadership development, and movement-building strategies. Throughout the year, fellows engage in monthly coaching sessions, leadership workshops, and cohort meetings that foster peer learning and accountability.
The centerpiece of the fellowship is the capstone project, where each fellow designs and executes a long-term initiative aligned with their social justice interests. These projects allow students to apply what they learn in real-world settings while creating measurable impact in their communities.
Financial and Professional Benefits
To support fellows throughout the program, the John Lewis Young Leaders Fellowship provides meaningful financial and professional resources. Fellows receive a professional stipend, funding to support their capstone projects, and full coverage for program-related retreats and training sessions. Beyond financial support, participants gain access to a powerful network of mentors, alumni, and social justice professionals that can shape their academic and career pathways.
Why This Fellowship Matters
The John Lewis Young Leaders Fellowship stands out because it combines leadership development with action. It does not simply prepare students for future careers—it empowers them to make change now. Fellows leave the program with stronger leadership skills, a deeper understanding of justice work, and the confidence to continue organizing and advocating long after the fellowship ends.
Official Application Link
👉 Apply and learn more here:
https://johnlewisyoungleaders.org/
