African Data Scientists Fellowship for Gender Projects
In a rapidly digitalizing world, where narratives are formed and reformed at the speed of a tweet, empowering underrepresented voices is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. That’s why Code for Africa (CfA), along with global partners, is launching a compelling initiative to equip 14 African data scientists and digital storytellers with the tools to drive gender-focused change across the continent.
A Fellowship Designed for Impact
This prestigious, stipend-based fellowship invites young changemakers from 14 African nations to step up, lead, and build a safer, inclusive digital space. Importantly, this initiative doesn’t merely offer financial support—it provides hands-on mentorship, technical training, and deep community engagement through the acclaimed WanaData Initiative.
The Bigger Picture: A Global Collaboration for Local Change
Certainly, this is not a solo act. The fellowship is a joint initiative between Code for Africa, the European Partnership for Democracy (EPD), AfricTivistes, CFI Media Development, the World Scout Bureau Africa Regional Office, and the Kofi Annan Foundation (KAF). With essential contributions from the Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy (NIMD), this initiative showcases a rare synergy of media, tech, and democracy-focused organizations committed to youth empowerment.
Why It Matters: Bridging the Gender Data Gap
Moreover, the focus is profound. The program seeks to address critical content gaps on gender equality by amplifying stories and data that align with the African Union Convention on Cybersecurity and Personal Data Protection, SDG16, and themes around freedom of expression, human rights, e-democracy, and digital mobilization.
This initiative spans the Sahel region, neighboring West Africa, and the Horn of Africa, regions often underrepresented in digital discourse but brimming with potential for change.
What Fellows Can Expect
Here’s what successful candidates will receive:
- Stipend: $250/month for 6 months
- Number of Awards: 14 Fellows
- Support: Technical training, fact-checking, editorial guidance
- Mentorship: One-on-one coaching from CfA’s Academy and Communities Team
- Access: Network of gender advocates, media experts, and data scientists across Africa
Naturally, such immersive support ensures that Fellows won’t just participate—they will thrive and lead.
Eligibility Criteria: Is This Fellowship for You?
The opportunity is open to citizens or residents of the following countries:
🇧🇯 Bénin
🇧🇫 Burkina Faso
🇨🇲 Cameroun
🇹🇩 Tchad
🇪🇹 Éthiopie
🇬🇳 Guinée
🇲🇱 Mali
🇲🇷 Mauritanie
🇳🇪 Niger
🇸🇳 Sénégal
🇸🇴 Somalie
🇸🇸 Soudan du Sud
🇸🇩 Soudan
🇹🇬 Togo
So, if you’re passionate about gender equality, digital rights, and using data to tell compelling stories, this fellowship is tailored just for you.
Application Deadline: Act Fast!
⏰ Deadline: April 28
✅ Apply here: http://wanadata.africa
Time is ticking. Therefore, don’t delay. Applications are reviewed promptly, and interest is high across eligible countries.
Why This Fellowship Stands Out
Here’s what truly sets the WanaData Fellowship apart:
- Real-world relevance: Tackle pressing gender and digital issues in Africa
- Diverse expertise: Learn from both local activists and global experts
- Holistic growth: Beyond skill-building, grow your influence and voice
- Proven track record: WanaData’s previous fellows have gone on to lead national campaigns, create viral data stories, and influence policy
About WanaData: Africa’s Digital Sisterhood
Launched to spotlight women working at the intersection of data, media, and technology, the WanaData Initiative is more than a network—it’s a movement. Now, with this fellowship, they are opening the door to all genders committed to uplifting marginalized voices in digital spaces.
What You’ll Be Working On
Fellows will dive into topics including:
- Gender-based cyber harassment
- Women’s digital privacy rights
- Tech access inequality
- Digital activism and youth movements
- Data visualizations that drive change
- Evaluating policy against the African Union’s Digital Charter
In essence, this is your chance to bring data and stories to life—with global impact.
How to Strengthen Your Application
If you’re serious about being selected, consider these tips:
Apply before April 28, and let your journey to impact begin.
