Young feminist leaders from the Global South have a new chance to build skills and networks. The ARROW-AMwA Advocacy Institute 2026, or AAI 2026, opens applications for its fully funded program. This initiative gathers 150 women aged 18 to 35 to tackle key issues like gender equality and climate justice.
Organized by the Asian-Pacific Resource and Research Centre for Women (ARROW) and Akina Mama wa Afrika (AMwA), AAI 2026 focuses on feminist leadership. It helps participants create change in their communities through training and collaboration. The program runs across Africa, Asia, and the Pacific.
About the Advocacy Institute
AAI 2026 strengthens ties among Global South feminists. It equips young women with tools to fight anti-rights movements and push for social justice. The institute stresses local realities while building cross-region links.
Over 150 participants join from diverse backgrounds. They learn advocacy skills rooted in feminist values. Past programs have sparked real action in leadership and movement building.
Program Objectives
The main goals of AAI 2026 include boosting advocacy and leadership skills. It encourages work between generations and movements. Participants get support for projects at the national level.
The program also creates a lasting network of leaders. This helps sustain efforts long after the training ends. Everyone works toward inclusive change.
Thematic Focus Areas
AAI 2026 covers pressing global topics. These include sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). Reproductive justice and bodily autonomy take center stage.
Other areas are gender equality, economic justice, and human rights funding. Climate justice addresses environmental impacts on women. Digitalization and AI explore tech’s role in rights.
Trade, security, and global systems come up too. Political equality fights anti-democratic trends. Each theme links to real-world advocacy.
Program Structure
The program splits into two main parts. First comes online learning. Then top performers move to a fellowship.
Capacity Strengthening Webinars
This phase lasts seven weeks from May 29 to July 10, 2026. It features six thematic webinars and one orientation session. Weekly office hours offer extra help.
Three regional caucuses build local ties. Participants gain knowledge on all focus areas. This virtual setup fits busy schedules.
South2South Feminist Fellowship
Fifty top participants advance here. They receive technical support for advocacy projects. A small grant helps implement national plans.
Fellows put skills into action. Mentors guide them through challenges. This step turns learning into impact.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, you must be 18 to 35 years old, born on or after July 1, 1992. You need at least two years of experience in human rights, gender equality, or SRHR advocacy.
Work with an organization that supports feminist values. Show strong commitment to these principles. You must live in and hold citizenship from an eligible country in Africa, Asia, or the Pacific.
Why You Should Apply
AAI 2026 connects you to a global feminist network. You build practical skills for advocacy. Cross-region work sparks new ideas.
Mentorship and funding open doors. Contribute to real change in politics and society. This program shapes the future of Global South leadership.
Eligible Countries
Countries span three regions. Check your location against this list.
Africa
Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Zambia, Benin, Senegal, Ghana, Morocco, Burkina Faso, Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Niger, Togo.
Asia
Southeast Asia: Cambodia, Myanmar, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore, Laos, Vietnam.
South Asia: Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Maldives.
Central Asia: Mongolia.
East Asia: China, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea.
West Asia: UAE, Qatar.
Pacific
Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Cook Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Niue, Palau, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu.
Informational Session
Join a free virtual session to learn more. It happens on April 20, 2026, at 6:30 PM Malaysian Time via Zoom. Ask questions and get tips for a strong application.
Application Details
The deadline is April 28, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET. Submit in English; French interpretation is available. Request sign-language support if needed.
Review the concept note and guidance documents first. APPLY NOW. This fully funded chance awaits passionate advocates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply for AAI 2026?
Women aged 18 to 35 from eligible countries in Africa, Asia, or the Pacific with at least two years of experience in human rights, gender equality, or SRHR advocacy. You must work with an organization that supports feminist values.
What is the structure of the AAI 2026 program?
It starts with seven weeks of online webinars and caucuses from May 29 to July 10, 2026. Top participants then join the South2South Feminist Fellowship with project support and grants.
What topics does AAI 2026 cover?
Key areas include sexual and reproductive health rights, gender equality, climate justice, economic justice, digitalization, and political equality. These link to real-world advocacy efforts.
When is the application deadline for AAI 2026?
Applications close on April 28, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET. Submit in English via the online form, and join the info session on April 20 for tips.
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