Become a catalyst for change in the African Library Ecosystem!

Become a part of Africa's next generation of visionary
library leaders. Apply now to join the 2026 cohort of
the Young African Library Leaders Fellowship (YALLF)

Become a part of Africa's next generation of visionary library leaders. Apply now to join the 2026 cohort of the Young African Library Leaders Fellowship (YALLF)

Join 2026 Cohort

Why enroll in YALLF

Proven Impact

Over the last 4 years, YALLF has trained 100 young leaders who have implemented projects that positively impacted their communities, enhancing access to education, technology, and literacy resources.

Comprehensive Fellowship

Our program offers a unique blend of virtual learning, hands-on project development, and mentorship from leading library experts across Africa.

Community and Network

Upon completion, fellows join the prestigious Young African Library Leaders Network, a thriving community of professionals dedicated to transforming libraries in Africa and beyond.

What you will gain

Virtual Classes

Access engaging and insightful virtual lessons from expert facilitators

Capstone Project or Internship Pathway

Develop and implement a project that directly impacts your community, or gain hands-on experience through an internship.

Alumni Network

Join a growing community of library leaders from across the continent, committed to continuous learning and professional development.

Exclusive Access to Resources

Benefit from resources tailored to support your work as a library leader.

What you will learn

Digital Storytelling

Use digital tools to create and share engaging library stories that connect with your communities.

Essentials of Advocacy

Confidently speak up for libraries and influence decisions that support library growth and impact.

Essentials of Communication

Express ideas clearly, listen actively, and build stronger connections in your library work.

Leading Change for Libraries

confidently guide libraries through change and inspire others to embrace new ways of working.

Programs Development and Management

Design, plan, and manage effective library programs that meet your community needs.

Media and Information Literacy (MIL)

Find, evaluate, and use information and media responsibly in your library work.

How Libraries Drive Sustainable Development Plans

learn how libraries contribute to achieving and supporting sustainable development goals in their communities.

YALLF 2026
Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Young African Library Leaders Fellowship (YALLF) 2026 Cohort, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be a Librarian. Applicants must currently be working or volunteering in a library, information centre, or related organization.
Be a citizen of an African country. The fellowship welcomes applicants from all African nations.
Be between the ages of 18 and 35 years at the time of application.
Demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to advancing access to information, literacy, or community development through libraries.
Be willing to commit to all virtual sessions, assignments, and fellowship activities throughout the program period.
Pay the required non-refundable application fee of ₦10,000

What our Alumni are saying

The YALLF has helped me understand how different concepts from several fields fit into librarianship and how diverse skills can help you be innovative.

Ellen Chifuniro

Malawi

This fellowship was a transformative journey that exceeded my expectations. The program offered a unique brand of theoretical knowledge, practical skills and networking opportunities… Watch the full testimonial video below.

Martin Namacheka

Malawi

I gained so much knowledge about project development and management because that is one of the reasons why I joined. I’ve always been passionate about youth empowerment and project management… Watch the full testimonial video below

Albertina Shihawa

Namibia

The Young African Library Leaders Fellowship has helped me exchange experience and perspectives about librarianship with my peers across the African continent.

Razack Ramadhani

Tanzania

My capstone project was focused on coming up with a literacy program to help develop our communities, which of one I have started and it has been going smoothly. I have trained about 20 community members in basic computer literacy… Watch the full testimonial video below

Aina Sakaria

Namibia

The Young African Library Leaders Fellowship experience was amazing because I acquired skills that have made me feel confident in my career. I had the opportunity to engage in various tasks and projects, which deepened my understanding of the library profession. Collaborating with colleagues and attending workshops expanded my knowledge and skills.

Abdulkadr Ali Abdulla

Tanzania

The Young African Library Leaders Fellowship has contributed positively to my career; I have become a beacon of solutions to challenges my community faces, and my eyes have been opened to the opportunities available in this profession.

Peter J. Chamgwera

Malawi

The Young African Library Leadership Fellowship is an insightful fellowship that is deliberately working to amplify the voice of libraries across Africa. It opened me up to new knowledge, perspectives, and networks and should not be taken for granted.

Namakau Mayungo

Zambia

Through the fellowship I was able to connect with hundreds of other young Africans from across the continent, as we learnt the basic principles of library management and took courses that shaped our journey… Watch the full testimonial video below.

Paul Mensah Amanor

Ghana

The Young African Library Leaders Fellowship inspired me to do more in the Library and information science sector. This is where I developed the passion and courage to serve Africa and be innovative as well as mindful of others.

David Koech

Kenya

The Young African Library Leaders Fellowship has helped me to gain the essential skills and competencies needed to work in the ever-evolving age in the library ecosystem.

Halliru Sani Salihu

Nigeria

Become a catalyst for
change in the African
Library Ecosystem!

Become a catalyst for change in the African Library Ecosystem!

Application fee

N10,000

Program fee

N360,000

Duration

12 Months

Installment payment allowed

Scholarship option is available

What is the Young African
Library Leaders Fellowship (YALLF)?

What is the Young African Library Leaders Fellowship (YALLF)?