The Fellowship Experience
This intensive three-month skills development journey, followed by a one-week exchange in partner countries, empowers participants with essential skills in personal development, ethical leadership, social entrepreneurship, technology, community development, and sustainability.
Programme Features
Skills Development
Three-month intensive online program covering essential skills for future leaders in sustainability.
- Personal Development
- Ethical Leadership
- Social Entrepreneurship
- Technology Skills
- Sustainability
Exchange Program
One-week immersive experience in partner countries to gain global perspectives on sustainability.
- Cross-cultural Learning
- Site Visits
- Knowledge Exchange
- Networking
Community Impact
Fellows apply their skills to real-world sustainability challenges in their communities.
- Project Implementation
- Community Engagement
- Impact Assessment
- Sustainable Solutions
Mentorship
Personalized guidance from industry professionals and sustainability leaders throughout the program.
- Expert Support
- Career Guidance
- Industry Connections
- Peer-to-Peer Learning
Eligibility Requirements
Ages 18-32 from participating countries
Minimum 65% average in latest results
Enrolled in sustainability/green economy courses
No prior international travel
Open to domestic and international travel
No criminal record
From a disadvantaged background (with affidavit)
Application Process
Application
Submit your application starting March annually with your CV, academic records, and motivation letter.
Selection
Applications reviewed April-May with interviews for shortlisted candidates, cohort announced in June.
Programme
July 1st - September 30th: Three-month skills development with weekly online modules and assignments.
Exchange
September 22nd - 30th: One-week exchange in a partner country with hands-on workshops and field visits.
2024 Fellows
Hope Nkadimeng
Pursuing a Masters at the University of Venda, Hope researched native plant species for phytoremediation at the Tshikondeni Coal Mine.
Mothiba Koketso Gideon
A Masters student at the University of Witwatersrand, Gideon explored microbial consortia for enhanced biomethane production.
Dhliwayo Vutlari
Enrolled in Honors at Rhodes University, Vutlari studied structural defenses and their impact on Corner's rule in plant species.
Sithlangu Ivy
A Masters candidate at the University of Venda, Ivy investigated plant interactions in the Nylsvley Nature Reserve.
Ntsieni Vhutshilo
Studying for a Bachelor of Environmental Science at the University of Venda, Vhutshilo focused on foundational sustainability skills.
Lucia Mpuetsi Tsotetsi
A Masters student at the University of Venda, Lucia worked on enhancing anaerobic digestion using bio-augmentation techniques.
Start Your Journey
Applications for the 2025 UGO Fellowship are now open. Take the first step towards becoming a sustainability leader.