Understanding the Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity Fellowship
The Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity (AFSE) Fellowship is a significant program designed to empower Indigenous and Pacific leaders and their allies. It focuses on driving social change and advancing equity across Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific Island nations. This fellowship, hosted at the University of Melbourne with support from the University of Auckland, is part of a global network of Atlantic Fellows. It aims to equip changemakers with the knowledge, skills, and networks needed to create lasting, positive impact. The program centers Indigenous and Pacific knowledge systems, recognizing their inherent value in addressing community challenges and contributing to global transformation.
What is the Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity Fellowship?
The AFSE Fellowship is a leadership development program built on the principle that Indigenous and Pacific peoples possess deep knowledge and solutions for societal issues. The fellowship seeks to highlight and support these existing strengths. Its main goals include centering Indigenous and Pacific knowledge systems, backing social equity initiatives, empowering community leaders, and building stronger movements for Indigenous-led change. By bringing together individuals from various backgrounds, the program fosters learning, mutual support, and collaboration among its participants.
The fellowship is supported by key institutions, including the University of Melbourne, Waipapa Taumata Rau University of Auckland, the Atlantic Institute, and the Rhodes Trust. The Atlantic Institute, based in Oxford, acts as a global hub for all Atlantic Fellows.
The Fellowship Journey: Foundation Year and Lifelong Community
The AFSE Fellowship unfolds in two main phases. The first is the Foundation Year, where up to 20 selected leaders and allies participate in collaborative learning and develop strong professional and personal connections. During this year, Fellows undertake a fee-free Master’s degree in Social Change Leadership or a Graduate Certificate in Social Change Leadership. This academic component is designed to integrate Indigenous and Pacific knowledges with critical thinking, systems change approaches, community-based learning, and academic study. A key feature is that Fellows can remain connected to their home communities while pursuing their studies.
Upon completing the Foundation Year, Fellows become Senior Fellows and join a lifelong community. This ongoing stage offers continued opportunities for collaboration, global networking, and support for social change initiatives. Senior Fellows can participate in Atlantic Fellows summits and access a wider network of changemakers worldwide, ensuring their work and leadership continue to grow and have impact long after the formal program concludes.
Core Components of the Fellowship
Social Change Initiative
A central part of the fellowship is the Social Change Initiative. Each Fellow develops and advances a practical project focused on addressing real-world community issues. These initiatives can take many forms, such as public policy advocacy, community programs, health equity projects, climate justice solutions, media work, educational reform, cultural preservation, or systems reform. The initiative is designed to turn knowledge into action, create lasting community impact, and strengthen Indigenous-led solutions. Fellows receive ongoing support to refine and implement these projects.
Program Delivery and Learning Structure
The AFSE Fellowship program spans one year and combines various learning methods. These include in-person modules, online tutorials, community engagement, and academic work. Unlike many fellowships that require full-time relocation, AFSE allows Fellows to spend most of the year within their own communities.
The Foundation Year includes five intensive in-person modules, each lasting about a week. These modules take place in Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific Island nations, with some sessions held directly within Indigenous and Pacific communities to promote deeper cultural understanding.
Online tutorials are held every two weeks, featuring group discussions, oral assessments, and collaborative reflection. Assessment methods are varied and can include written assignments, presentations, group projects, and reflective exercises. Throughout the program, Fellows receive academic feedback, peer support, and guidance for their leadership development.
Fully Funded Fellowship Benefits
The AFSE Fellowship offers extensive support to its participants.
Academic Benefits
Fellows receive a fee-free Master’s degree or Graduate Certificate from the University of Melbourne. They also gain access to the university’s academic resources and engage with an Indigenous and Pacific-centered curriculum.
Travel and Accommodation Support
All travel costs, accommodation, and program-related expenses for the in-person sessions are fully covered by the fellowship.
Leadership and Networking Opportunities
Participants gain access to international networks of changemakers, opportunities for long-term collaboration, and dedicated leadership development. Mentorship and peer learning are also key components.
Global Atlantic Fellows Network
Upon completion, Fellows become part of a global network of over 1,100 changemakers across more than 70 countries. This network provides ongoing professional support and opportunities for international collaboration and social innovation.
Who Should Apply?
The fellowship is seeking mid-career professionals, community-focused leaders, Indigenous and Pacific changemakers, and allies who are committed to Indigenous-led equity work. Applicants can come from diverse sectors, including community organizations, government, healthcare, education, business, media, arts and culture, public policy, advocacy, and environmental work. It is particularly suited for leaders already engaged in initiatives aimed at improving social equity and community well-being.
Why This Fellowship Matters
The Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity Fellowship is more than just an academic program; it is a transformative leadership experience. It is grounded in Indigenous wisdom, community-centered leadership, systems change, social justice, and equity-driven action. The fellowship provides a platform for Indigenous and Pacific leaders to strengthen their impact, expand their networks, develop sustainable initiatives, build collective power, and influence future systems and policies. The program is set to introduce changes for the 2027 Foundation Year to further enhance Indigenous and Pacific on-country learning, community exchange, and fellowship collaboration. More details are expected in mid-2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main goal of the Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity Fellowship?
The main goal is to empower Indigenous and Pacific leaders and their allies to drive social change and advance equity by centering Indigenous and Pacific knowledge systems.
What academic programs are offered through the fellowship?
Fellows can pursue a fee-free Master’s degree in Social Change Leadership or a Graduate Certificate in Social Change Leadership from the University of Melbourne.
How is the fellowship program structured?
The program includes a Foundation Year with in-person modules and online tutorials, allowing Fellows to remain in their communities, followed by a lifelong community of Senior Fellows.
What kind of support does the fellowship provide?
The fellowship covers academic fees, travel, accommodation for in-person sessions, and offers extensive leadership development, networking opportunities, and access to a global network.
