AGFUND Development Programme 2026 for Diana Award Recipients in Africa
The AGFUND Development Programme 2026 is a free, six-month virtual programme for Diana Award Recipients based in Africa. It supports young changemakers who are leading social-action projects, initiatives, campaigns, or organisations. Up to 25 participants will join the first cohort, which begins in October 2026. Applications close on Friday 31 July 2026 at 23:59 GMT.
Quick Overview
Programme: AGFUND Development Programme
Opportunity Type: Changemaker development programme
Host Organization: The Diana Award
Eligibility: Diana Award Recipients based in Africa
Age Requirement: 16–25 at the start of the programme
Programme Format: Virtual
Duration: Six months
Programme Start: October 2026
Deadline: Friday 31 July 2026 at 23:59 GMT
About the AGFUND Development Programme 2026
The AGFUND Development Programme is a pilot initiative created for Diana Award Recipients who are already leading social action in their communities.
The programme combines expert-led learning, peer connection, and personalised development support. It aims to help participants strengthen, sustain, and scale their existing work.
The programme was shaped through engagement with Diana Award Recipients across Africa. Participants identified practical development needs connected to leadership, sustainability, partnerships, funding, and growth.
What Participants Will Gain
Participants will join a community of young changemakers and receive support for their personal development and social-impact work.
The programme offers opportunities to:
✓ Strengthen leadership skills and confidence
✓ Develop strategies for sustaining and growing social-action work
✓ Build partnerships and expand professional networks
✓ Improve impact measurement and communication
✓ Connect with Diana Award Recipients across Africa
✓ Increase visibility and access to future opportunities
✓ Develop a Personal Growth Plan
✓ Receive a certificate of participation after completing the programme
Also read: WIC Global Youth Leadership Program 2026
Programme Topics
The six-month programme will cover practical areas connected to leadership and long-term social impact.
Topics include:
• Leadership and sustainable change
• Time and energy management
• Wellbeing and resilience
• Measuring and demonstrating impact
• Strategic storytelling and visibility
• Partnerships and collaboration
• Funding and sustainability
• Scaling impact
Programme Format and Activities
The AGFUND Development Programme will be delivered virtually over six months.
Participants will take part in:
✓ Live online learning sessions
✓ Expert partner-led workshops
✓ Peer learning and collaboration
✓ Two individual development-support sessions
✓ Ongoing community engagement
✓ Networking opportunities
✓ Reflection activities and independent learning
✓ Access to a dedicated community space
Online sessions will be delivered through Microsoft Teams. Participants will also use a dedicated community platform to connect, access resources, and continue discussions between sessions.
Check: AFS Global STEM Changemakers 2026 Virtual Exchange Program
Eligibility Criteria
The programme is open exclusively to applicants who meet the following conditions:
• Be a Diana Award Recipient
• Be based in Africa
• Be between 16 and 25 years old at the start of the programme in October 2026
• Be actively leading or involved in social action, a project, initiative, campaign, or organisation
• Be interested in strengthening, sustaining, or growing their work
• Be able to commit to a six-month virtual programme
Applicants who are at an earlier stage of developing an initiative may apply. However, priority may be given to candidates with existing social-action experience.
Time Commitment
Participants should expect to dedicate at least six hours each month to the programme.
This commitment may include:
• Live online sessions lasting approximately 90–120 minutes
• Interactive workshops and peer-learning activities
• Community engagement through the AGFUND Slack workspace
• Reflection exercises and independent learning
• Two individual development-support sessions
• Optional networking and engagement activities
The programme is designed to fit alongside participants’ studies, employment, and social-action commitments.
Explore: Bond University Leadership Scholarship Overview
Selection Process
Applications will first be reviewed against the eligibility requirements.
Eligible applications will then be assessed according to:
• Current social-action work
• Motivation for joining the programme
• Development needs and challenges
• Potential to benefit from the programme
• Ability to commit to programme activities
The selection team will also aim to create a diverse cohort representing different African countries, sectors, and experiences.
Shortlisted applicants may be invited to attend a short online conversation. Up to 25 participants will be selected for the first cohort.
Important Dates
• Applications open: July 2026
• Application deadline: Friday 31 July 2026 at 23:59 GMT
• Onboarding activities: September 2026
• Programme start: October 2026
• Second cohort: Expected to begin in January 2027
Successful applicants will complete onboarding activities, including an induction session, access to the community platform, an initial individual development conversation, and the first stage of their Personal Growth Plan.
Application Process
Applicants should complete the following steps:
• Review the eligibility criteria and programme information
• Complete the official online application form
• Describe their current social-action work
• Explain their motivation and development needs
• Confirm their availability for the six-month virtual programme
• Submit the application before the deadline
Final participants will be selected based on eligibility, motivation, programme fit, and availability.
Official Link
Submit your application through the official application link below.
