Elevate Africa has announced the selection of 23 mid-career professionals from 18 African countries for the 2026 Cohort II of its Elevate Africa Fellowship, a leadership programme designed to strengthen capacity and drive sustainable development across the continent.

The organisation said the Fellows were drawn from a competitive pool of over 4,000 applicants, with more than 700 completing the application process, underscoring the growing demand for structured leadership development opportunities in Africa.

The Fellowship, an initiative founded by Their Majesties, Ogiame Atuwatse III and Olori Atuwatse III, brings together professionals working across key sectors including education, media, governance, business, climate and social impact.

According to Elevate Africa, the selected Fellows cut across five regions, East, West, Southern, North and the Indian Ocean, highlighting the depth of talent and leadership potential across the continent.

Speaking on the development, the Media and Communications Officer of Elevate Africa, Blessing Collins Igrubia, said the emergence of Cohort II reflects the organisation’s commitment to nurturing leaders who are intentional about driving measurable impact.

She said, “Cohort II represents a continuation of our commitment to identifying and supporting leaders who are not only excelling in their respective fields but are also dedicated to contributing meaningfully to Africa’s development in practical and measurable ways.”

Igrubia added that the 10-month Fellowship would feature intensive learning sessions, mentorship and collaborative engagements, as well as partnerships with African Leadership University, to equip participants with the tools and insights required to scale their impact.

She further noted that beyond the formal programme, Fellows would become part of a growing alumni network fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange and long-term support.

She added that the initiative remains focused on building a strong pipeline of leaders capable of addressing Africa’s complex challenges and shaping policy, business and social outcomes.