Every year, young leaders, activists, and changemakers look for opportunities to grow their skills, expand their networks, and create lasting impact in their communities. Among the most respected of these opportunities is the Oxfam Fellowship.
While the official announcement for the 2025 Oxfam Fellowship has not yet been released, past editions already give us a clear picture of what applicants can expect. If you’re thinking of applying, now is the best time to prepare.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from the fellowship’s vision and structure to eligibility, benefits, and practical tips for positioning yourself as a strong candidate.
What Is the Oxfam Fellowship?
The Oxfam Fellowship is a global leadership and development programme designed to empower young leaders, activists, and social innovators.
It is supported by Oxfam International, a confederation of NGOs working to end poverty, inequality, and injustice. Through the fellowship, participants gain mentorship, resources, and a platform to raise their voices on critical global issues.
Over the years, Oxfam has launched different fellowship models tailored to regional needs. For example:
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Oxfam Young Leaders Fellowship (Asia) – focusing on youth activism, leadership, and civic participation.
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Oxfam Feminist Fellowship (Southern Africa) – centering on feminist leadership, advocacy, and transformative community action.
Though the themes differ, the goal is the same: to prepare young changemakers to lead with courage in an evolving world.
Why the Fellowship Matters in 2025
The year 2025 will be a turning point for many global challenges. Climate change is intensifying, inequality continues to rise, and fundamental human rights are being tested in multiple regions.
In this context, Oxfam’s fellowship is more relevant than ever. It provides:
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A platform for young leaders to exchange ideas and push for justice.
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High-quality training in leadership, advocacy, and project implementation.
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Access to an international network of mentors and peers working across borders.
For emerging leaders, the fellowship offers the tools and visibility needed to transform passion into meaningful, long-lasting action.
Who Can Apply? (Expected Eligibility for 2025)
While official details for the 2025 cycle are not yet published, past editions give us a strong indication of what eligibility may look like:
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Age: Typically open to applicants under 30, with some programmes setting the age limit at 27.
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Location: Eligibility may be tied to specific regions such as Asia or Africa.
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Community Involvement: Applicants should be actively engaged in advocacy or projects related to climate change, gender justice, poverty reduction, civic participation, or digital rights.
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Commitment: Fellows are expected to commit time for workshops, training, and mentorship sessions (both online and in person).
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Language: English proficiency has been required in past editions since it is the main language of instruction.
If you’re active in these areas and meet the age criteria, you’ll likely qualify when the 2025 programme opens.
What Fellows Receive
Oxfam invests significantly in its fellows. While benefits vary by region, previous cycles suggest fellows can expect:
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Financial Support
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Some fellowships provide stipends. For instance, the 2024 Young Leaders Fellowship offered USD 3,600 over nine months.
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Training & Mentorship
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World-class training on leadership, advocacy, project management, feminist theory, and media engagement.
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Ongoing mentorship from experienced activists, professionals, and Oxfam staff.
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Global Networking
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Fellows connect with peers worldwide, building long-lasting partnerships.
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Project Development
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Support for launching or scaling community projects, sometimes with seed funding or institutional backing.
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Visibility & Influence
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Opportunities to share work on Oxfam platforms, speak at events, and gain international recognition.
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Programme Structure (Based on Past Cycles)
Oxfam fellowships have followed similar structures in the past, often including:
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In-Person Induction: A week-long orientation with training and networking (often held in hubs such as Bangkok or Johannesburg).
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Monthly Online Sessions: Covering advocacy, leadership, and civic engagement.
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Mentorship Period: Each fellow is matched with a mentor for guidance.
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Community Building: Fellows are encouraged to strengthen networks of activists in their home countries.
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Project Implementation: Developing or refining a project during the fellowship.
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Closing Convening: A final gathering to present projects, reflect on lessons, and discuss next steps.
The 2025 cycle is expected to follow a similar approach, with adjustments depending on Oxfam’s focus areas and global circumstances.
Key Focus Areas in 2025
Based on global trends and Oxfam’s priorities, the 2025 fellowship is likely to spotlight:
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Climate Justice & Sustainability – empowering young climate activists.
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Gender Equality & Feminist Leadership – amplifying feminist voices in advocacy.
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Digital Rights & Artificial Intelligence – tackling how technology influences inequality.
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Economic Justice & Livelihoods – strengthening communities against exploitation and poverty.
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Civic Participation & Youth Leadership – encouraging youth engagement in governance and policymaking.
Applicants should align their work with these themes when preparing their application.
How to Prepare for Oxfam Fellowship 2025
Since applications aren’t open yet, here are ways to prepare in advance:
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Strengthen Your Profile
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Stay engaged in community projects or advocacy campaigns.
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Keep records of your work (reports, media mentions, or photos).
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Sharpen Your Story
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Reflect on your personal journey: What challenges shaped you? How has your work created impact?
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Build Your Network
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Collaborate with other activists and organizations. Networks demonstrate your ability to scale impact.
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Stay Updated
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Follow Oxfam’s website and social media channels (LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook) for announcements.
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Prepare Your Documents
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Update your CV.
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Draft a strong personal statement.
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Secure references from mentors, colleagues, or community leaders.
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Why You Should Apply
The Oxfam Fellowship is not just a programme — it’s a transformative experience. Past fellows have gone on to lead national campaigns, launch NGOs, and even influence global policy discussions.
By applying, you will:
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Gain practical tools to fight inequality.
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Build friendships and collaborations across borders.
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Receive recognition for your work.
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Join Oxfam’s global movement for justice.
If you are passionate about driving change, this fellowship could be your platform to scale up your impact.
Conclusion
The Oxfam Fellowship 2025 has not yet opened, but based on past editions, it is set to be one of the most impactful opportunities for young leaders in the coming year. By preparing early, refining your story, strengthening your network, and staying alert to official updates, you can position yourself as a strong candidate.
Whether your focus is climate action, gender equality, economic justice, or digital rights, this fellowship offers the mentorship, resources, and visibility you need to grow as a leader.
Stay prepared, stay confident, and when the announcement comes, step forward boldly, the world is waiting for your leadership.
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