The Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders is the founding flagship program of the Young African Leaders Initiative. The Fellows, between the ages of 25 and 35, are accomplished leaders and have established records of promoting innovation and positive impact in their communities and countries. Each year, Fellows participate in 6-week leadership institutes, studying business, civic engagement, or public management at U.S. colleges or universities. During their time on campus, Fellows connect with Americans and local U.S. communities through community service and other cultural experiences. In 2023, 700 Fellows traveled to the United States, with up to 100 of them participating in four-week Professional Development Experiences with private U.S. companies, NGOs, and state and local governments. This summer, UGA will host 25 fellows representing multiple countries in Sub Sahara Africa (in 2023, UGA had 18 different countries represented). They will be at UGA from June 19-July 28, 2024.

UGA faculty, staff, and invited community guests will welcome the Fellows to UGA's campus in a relaxed environment. Reception guests will include the University Provost and the Athens mayor’s office.