Inclusive Disability Employment | U.S. Department of State Professional Fellows Program (Fully-funded to the US)

 

The selected fellows participate in a five-week intensive fellowship program at a university-based research and education center for disabilities in the U.S. Fellows will be placed with a university- based research and education center for disabilities that will provide them with mentorship and learning experiences during their stay in the U.S. Hosts will help Fellows apply what they learn during their fellowship, and plan related projects upon their return to their home countries. This fellowship is intended for current and potential leaders or advocates in the government, civil society, or the private sector who are committed to serving persons with disabilities.

Cost

Fellows will receive funding for their fellowship-related travel to and within the U.S., accommodations in the U.S., and more including:

• Visa
• Round trip travel between home country and U.S.
• Accident and health insurance for the duration of the fellowship in the U.S.
• Living allowance (or equivalent supports) to cover costs of meals, housing and incidental expenses (these funds, or some portion of them, can go directly to hosts if needed)
• Reasonable disability-related accommodations, if needed

Who is Eligible for the Inclusive Disability Employment?

• Applicants should be between the ages of 25 and 40;
• Be a citizen, national or permanent resident, and be living and working in Kenya, Tanzania, or Uganda;
• Be eligible to receive a U.S. J-1 visa;
• Be proficient in spoken and written English;
  • Speaking proficiency means that you are able to participate effectively in most formal and informal conversations on practical, social, and professional topics. Communication in spoken English as interpreted by a sign language interpreter (which will be provided by the Fellowship program) through use of American, Kenyan or Ugandan Sign Language qualifies you for speaking proficiency.
  • Reading proficiency means you are able to read standard newspaper items, routine correspondence, reports, and technical materials in your special field.
• Have at least two (2) or more years of relevant work experience with or for non-governmental organizations (NGOs), government offices, universities, schools or community-based organizations;
• Have professional interest and/or experience in inclusive employment and disabilities;
• Be self-directed and able to work effectively in a cross-cultural setting;
• Have demonstrated leadership and collaborative skills;
• Be able to participate in the Professional Fellows Program on Inclusive Disability Employment in the US either in the spring (April 27- May 27, 2019) or in the fall (October 16- November 23, 2019);
• Be committed to returning to your home country for a period of two (2) years after completion of the program; and
• Be committed to implementing an individual project that will benefit young people with disabilities and promote greater inclusive employment in your region, country, or community following completion of the program.

How to Apply

The application consists of four sections:

• Information About You
• Your Leadership and Statement of Purpose
• Recommendations
• Pledge of Authenticity

Click here to apply

For more information, visit Professional Fellows Program.