The AMEL Institute Regional Track is an interactive online training program run by The African Middle Eastern Leadership Project. It equips young activists across Africa and the Middle East with practical knowledge for rights-based civic leadership.
The Fall 2026 cohort runs for eight weeks from early October to early December, combining video lessons with online discussions, quizzes and assignments. Topics include human rights, activist safety, genocide prevention, nonviolent movements, democracy, communication, gender mainstreaming and cross-cultural allyship. Participants who complete all requirements receive an AMEL Institute certificate.
Benefits & funding
- The training is free.
- The fully online program lasts eight weeks: six lesson weeks plus an introductory week and a concluding week.
- The expected commitment is about two hours per week.
- Video lessons, online discussions, quizzes and assignments are included.
- Participants who complete all program requirements receive a certificate.
- English is the main language; some translation and assistance are available in Arabic, French and other languages.
Eligibility
- Applicants must be 18–36 years old.
- The program is for young activists from Africa and the Middle East. The official materials do not define this criterion specifically as nationality or current residence.
- Applicants may already be working against discrimination, inequality, persecution, rights violations or conflict, or may be new activists with a concrete vision for action.
- No formal education level or minimum number of years of experience is stated.
- Applicants must be willing to participate in an online program whose main language is English, with some Arabic and French translation or assistance.
Can you apply?
Here's who can apply
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Age requirement
18–36 yrs
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Application process
- 1Read the program description, application instructions and important notes on the application form.
- 2Draft detailed responses to the three essay questions in the applicant’s own words; the form suggests 250–300 words for each response and prohibits using AI tools.
- 3Complete the online form, including personal and activism background questions, and upload one CV or résumé.
- 4Check the submission for accuracy and completeness, then submit it by August 30, 2026 at 23:59 GMT/UTC.
Program timeline
Application deadline
August 30, 2026 at 23:59 GMT/UTC
Selected applicants are notified by email
Mid-September 2026
Fall program begins
Early October 2026
Fall program ends
Early December 2026