The Effie LIONS Foundation is accepting applications for its Voices of the Future Global Fellowship 2027. It’s a free, eight-month programme for students in their final year who want a career in marketing. Fellows learn from industry leaders, work on a real marketing brief, get one-to-one mentoring, and receive a fully paid trip to the 2027 Cannes LIONS International Festival of Creativity in Cannes, France.
It’s open to students worldwide, including Africa. Up to 15 fellows will be chosen. Applications close on 22 November 2026 at 6:00pm EST, which is midnight (00:00) on 23 November in Lagos, 1:00am in Johannesburg and 2:00am in Nairobi.
At a Glance
| Organiser | Effie LIONS Foundation |
| Who | Final-year undergraduate or postgraduate students interested in marketing |
| Places | Up to 15 fellows worldwide |
| Duration | 8 months, February to September 2027, mostly online |
| Highlight | Fully paid trip to the Cannes LIONS Festival in France |
| Cost | Free |
| Deadline | 22 November 2026, 6:00pm EST |
Benefits
- A fully funded trip to the Cannes LIONS International Festival of Creativity in France, the world’s biggest festival for the advertising and marketing industry, with workshops, mentoring sessions and industry exposure
- Training in marketing, strategy, creativity, leadership and AI
- A real-world marketing brief using the Effie Effectiveness in Marketing Framework, giving you portfolio-ready work
- At least four one-to-one mentor meetings with industry professionals
- A close-knit global cohort and access to industry networks for work placements and jobs. Jobs aren’t guaranteed.
- No cost to take part
Eligibility
- You must be in your final year of full-time study at a registered university or other post-secondary institution, graduating in 2027. Undergraduate and postgraduate students can apply.
- You must be interested in a marketing career, including advertising, brand and creative strategy, communications, content and media, digital and social marketing, customer experience, data and insights, or marketing technology.
- You must be able to communicate confidently in English.
- You must be 18 or older by 1 March 2027.
- No prior work or internship experience is needed.
- You must be able to attend the Cannes LIONS Festival in person. Finalists confirm their availability before accepting.
The official page doesn’t mention visa costs. African applicants should plan early for a French Schengen visa and ask the organisers what support is available.
Time Commitment
- About 4 hours a week of online learning
- Regular virtual meetings and at least four mentor meetings
- In-person participation at the Cannes LIONS Festival
How to Apply
- Read the eligibility rules on the official Voices of the Future page (link below).
- Prepare a three-minute video, a letter of recommendation, proof of your academic enrolment and a full CV.
- Complete the online application form. It takes about 3–5 hours, so don’t leave it to the last day.
- Submit before 22 November 2026, 6:00pm EST.
Timeline: applications are reviewed in December 2026 and January 2027, including shortlisting and panel interviews with industry leaders. Fellows are notified on 5 February 2027, and the fellowship starts in February.
Official Voices of the Future Fellowship page and application
Questions: [email protected]
Tips for African Applicants
- Show curiosity and growth. Reviewers say they value curiosity, strategic thinking and lived experience over polish or prior access.
- Make your video personal. Explain why marketing matters to you and give an example from your community, campus or a small business you’ve helped.
- Ask your referee early. A lecturer or supervisor who knows your work is best.
- Check your passport now. If you’re selected, you’ll need it for the French visa application.
