Are you a Ukrainian professional eager to help rebuild your country after the war? The McCain Global Leaders Ukraine Fellowship 2026 offers a fully funded chance to build leadership skills and connect with global experts. This three-month hybrid program starts in July 2026 and mixes online sessions with an in-person workshop.
About the McCain Global Leaders Ukraine Fellowship
The McCain Global Leaders Ukraine Fellowship comes from the McCain Institute at Arizona State University. It honors Senator John McCain, who supported Ukraine’s democracy and independence. The program targets Ukrainian leaders who want to create a strong, inclusive future.
This pilot initiative runs from July to September 2026. Fellows take part in virtual modules on leadership, discussions on key topics, and group projects. A major part is a week-long workshop in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, from August 15 to 22, 2026. The institute covers all costs, including travel and lodging.
During the fellowship, participants develop ideas for Ukraine’s reconstruction. They focus on democracy, inclusion, and community needs. Fellows also make plans to use what they learn back home.
Why This Fellowship Stands Out
Ukraine needs leaders in many areas to recover from the war. Challenges go beyond fixing roads and buildings. They include better government, economic growth, social unity, and protecting the environment.
The McCain Global Leaders Ukraine Fellowship builds skills for these issues. It brings together people from different fields to find connected solutions. The program stresses fair rebuilding that serves everyone.
It also promotes global teamwork. Ukrainian experts share ideas with international leaders. This helps create stronger plans for Ukraine’s future.
Key Benefits for Participants
Fellows get real value from the program:
- Full funding for the entire experience, including the Sarajevo trip.
- Training in leadership for post-war challenges.
- Skills in communication and writing proposals.
- Meetings with experts in policy and rebuilding.
- Connections in Washington, D.C., networks.
- Work with leaders from various sectors.
- Tools to make policy suggestions and action plans.
These gains help Ukrainian professionals grow their impact in their communities.
Who Can Apply
You qualify if you meet these rules:
- Live in Ukraine.
- Have at least six years of work experience in a related field.
- Speak English well enough for discussions.
- Get approval from the Ukrainian government to travel abroad for the workshop.
The fellowship welcomes people from sectors like policy, veterans’ groups, civil society, business, tech, environment, media, and culture. It especially seeks applicants from outside Kyiv to add diverse views.
Application Steps and Deadline
To apply, prepare these items:
- A CV no longer than two pages.
- A one-page cover letter on your reasons and background.
- A one-page essay about reconstruction challenges in your field, links to other areas, and how the fellowship will help you make a difference.
Submit everything on the official platform. Incomplete applications get rejected. Expect a background check.
The deadline is April 30, 2026, at 17:00 EST. For details, check the McCain Institute website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the McCain Global Leaders Ukraine Fellowship?
It’s a three-month hybrid program starting in July 2026 that builds leadership skills for Ukrainian professionals through online sessions, group projects, and a week-long workshop in Sarajevo.
Who is eligible to apply?
You qualify if you live in Ukraine, have at least six years of work experience in fields like policy or civil society, speak English well, and get government approval to travel.
What benefits does the fellowship offer?
It provides full funding including travel and lodging, leadership training, networking with experts, and tools to create action plans for Ukraine’s reconstruction.
What is the application deadline and process?
The deadline is April 30, 2026, at 17:00 EST. Submit a CV, cover letter, and essay on the official platform; incomplete applications are rejected.

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