The Lake Chad Climate Justice Youth Fellowships, implemented by the Development of Educational Action Network (DEAN Initiative) and supported by the Climate Justice Resilience Fund (CJRF), aims to empower young grassroots leaders from the Lake Chad Basin to actively engage in climate justice advocacy, community mobilization, and the development of local climate solutions.

Eligibility for the Lake Chad Climate Justice Youth Fellowship is open to young individuals aged 18 to 35 from the Lake Chad Basin countries—Chad, Nigeria, Cameroon, and Niger. Applicants must demonstrate a strong commitment to climate action, environmental justice, or community advocacy, and be willing to fully engage in the 24-month program. Prior experience in climate-related initiatives is an advantage, and selected fellows must be available to participate in all fellowship activities.

The Development of Educational Action Network (DEAN Initiative) is a Nigerian non-governmental, non-profit organization founded in 2010 and registered in 2015. Dedicated to fostering youth-driven solutions, DEAN Initiative collaborates with both governmental and non-governmental actors to empower young and vulnerable populations. Their mission centers on leading social development change through strategic youth involvement in transformational leadership, while engaging in advocacy activities to drive actions around gender-based violence, climate change, and inclusive development for rural communities.

Application Deadline: Open

Brief Description

• University or Organization: Development of Educational Action Network (DEAN Initiative) and supported by the Climate Justice Resilience Fund (CJRF)

• Department: NA

• Course Level: Fellowship (Non-degree)

• Award: Full participation support including workshops, mentorship, travel for forums, and project implementation grants

• Access Mode: Online and in-person components

• Number of Awards: 20

• Nationality: African (specifically from the Lake Chad Basin)

• The award can be taken in: Lake Chad Basin Region (Chad, Nigeria, Cameroon, Niger)

Eligibility

• Eligible Countries: Chad, Nigeria, Cameroon, Niger

• Acceptable Course or Subjects: The fellowship supports work in any area related to climate justice, environmental sustainability, advocacy, and community leadership.

• Admissible Criteria: To be eligible, the applicants must meet all the following/given criteria:
  • Be between 18 and 35 years old at the time of application.
  • Reside in or have strong ties to the Lake Chad region.
  • Demonstrate passion or prior experience in climate justice, environmental advocacy, or sustainability.
  • Commit to the full 24-month fellowship duration and actively participate in all program components.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must complete an online application which includes:

1. Personal and contact information

2. A Statement of Purpose (300–500 words) outlining motivation and goals

3. An updated CV highlighting relevant experience and achievements

The selection process involves an initial screening, virtual interviews, and final selection ensuring diversity across gender, experience, and geography.

Benefits

• Intensive capacity-building workshops on climate justice, storytelling, data visualization, and project management

• One-on-one mentorship from experienced African climate leaders and global experts

• Opportunities to participate in international and African climate forums

• Grants to support the development and implementation of local climate action projects

• Access to a regional and global network of climate justice advocates.

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