Fellowship Application · 2nd Cohort

Griots Fellowship

A leadership and storytelling program that equips African changemakers with the skills to shape and reclaim their continent's narrative. Inspired by TED Talks and the West African Griot tradition.

2026 theme: "Stories that will Define our Future"

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Step 1 of 4

Personal Details

Full name *

Date of birth

Gender *

Nationality

Personal email *

Work / institutional email *

Phone number *

Country / city of residence

Step 2 of 4

Professional Background

Organisation / institution *

Sector

Job title / position *

Years of professional experience

Current work and field of practice *

Briefly describe your current work and field.

Step 3 of 4

Application Questions

Each response should be no more than 300 words. The Griots Fellowship values voice, honesty, and originality. Write as yourself — not as you think we want you to write.

Question 1 of 4 · Transformation & Self-Knowledge

What has been the most transformative experience of your life in the last 5 to 10 years — and what did you discover about yourself?

This could be a professional turning point, a personal loss or triumph, a failure, a relationship, a moment of clarity — anything that genuinely changed you. What did it cost you, and what did it give you?

Be honest over impressive. Transformation that includes struggle or doubt is often more compelling.

Question 2 of 4 · Story & Inspiration

Share a story, book, piece of knowledge, or lived experience that has stayed with you — and explain what it taught you.

This could be a story told by a grandparent, a book that shifted your thinking, a piece of music, a historical moment. What did it reveal about Africa, leadership, or your place in the world?

A story about a single book or moment is often stronger than a survey of many influences.

Question 3 of 4 · Storytelling & Ideas

Why do you believe storytelling and ideas matter in the world today — and what role can they play in shaping Africa's future?

What is at stake when Africa's stories are told by others, or told poorly? What does it mean to reclaim narrative? Draw on examples from your sector, your community, or your own experience.

We want to understand why you believe storytelling is not just a skill, but a responsibility.

Question 4 of 4 · Your LéO Africa Talk

The 2026 theme is "Stories that will Define our Future." If you were given a stage today, what story would you tell — and why does it need to be heard?

This is the heart of your application. Draw from your personal journey, your community, or your professional experience. What is its central message? Who needs to hear it?

Let yourself write with some feeling here. We are looking for a story that only you can tell.

Step 4 of 4

Final Details

How did you hear about the Griots Fellowship?

Application Summary

Name:

Email:

Phone:

Organisation:

Position:

Questions answered:

I declare that the information provided in this application is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge. I understand that any false information may result in disqualification. *