Descrição

Overview

The AGFUND Development Programme is a six-month pilot initiative designed to support Diana Award Recipients across Africa who are already leading social action in their communities. Delivered virtually, the programme helps young changemakers strengthen, sustain, and scale their initiatives through expert-led learning, peer collaboration, and personalised development support.

The programme was developed in response to feedback from African Diana Award Recipients, highlighting the need for practical support in leadership, sustainability, partnerships, funding, and organisational growth.

Programme Benefits

Participants will gain practical skills and support to:

• Strengthen leadership and confidence.
• Develop strategies to sustain and grow their initiatives.
• Build partnerships and expand professional networks.
• Improve impact measurement, communication, and visibility.
• Connect with a community of Diana Award Recipients across Africa.
• Access future development opportunities.

Each participant will also develop a Personal Growth Plan to apply learning directly to their own project or initiative.

Programme Topics

The programme covers:

• Leadership and sustainable change.
• Time and energy management.
• Wellbeing and resilience.
• Measuring and demonstrating impact.
• Strategic storytelling and visibility.
• Partnerships and collaboration.
• Funding and sustainability.
• Scaling social impact.

Programme Structure

The six-month virtual programme includes:

• Live online learning sessions.
• Expert-led workshops.
• Peer learning and collaboration.
• Two one-to-one development support sessions.
• Ongoing networking and community engagement.

Participants should expect to commit at least six hours per month, including live sessions, workshops, independent learning, community participation, and individual coaching sessions.

Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Be a Diana Award Recipient.
• Be based in Africa.
• Be 16–25 years old at the start of the programme.
• Be actively leading a social action project, initiative, campaign, or organisation.
• Be seeking to strengthen, sustain, or grow their work.
• Be available to participate in the full six-month virtual programme.

Priority will be given to applicants already implementing social action initiatives, although those at earlier stages may also apply.

Selection Process

Applications will be assessed based on:

• Eligibility.
• Current social action experience.
• Motivation for joining the programme.
• Development needs and potential to benefit.
• Ability to commit to the programme.

The organisers also aim to select a diverse cohort representing different African countries, sectors, and experiences. Shortlisted applicants may be invited for a brief online interview.

Key Dates

• Applications open: July 2026
• Application deadline: 31 July 2026 (23:59 GMT)
• Onboarding: September 2026
• Programme starts: October 2026

Up to 25 participants will be selected for the first cohort. A second cohort is planned to begin in January 2027, and unsuccessful applicants may be considered for future opportunities.

Additional Information

Participation is free of charge. Participants who successfully complete the programme will receive a Certificate of Participation from The Diana Award.

Sessions will be delivered via Microsoft Teams, with participants also joining a dedicated online community platform for networking and resource sharing.

How to Apply

Interested Diana Award Recipients should review the eligibility requirements and complete the online application before 31 July 2026. Applicants are encouraged to prepare early and ensure they can commit to the programme’s monthly participation requirements.