Scholarship details
Every year, opportunities arise that have the potential to change lives, broaden horizons, and foster new understandings. One such opportunity is the $220 International Development Fellowship in Kenya for the year 2024. Offering a blend of educational enrichment and hands-on experience, this fellowship provides a unique platform for individuals passionate about making a difference in international development.
Host Organization: Building Resilient Futures (BRF)
The host organization for this fellowship is Building Resilient Futures (BRF), an internationally recognized non-profit dedicated to sustainable development. Established over two decades ago, BRF has committed itself to addressing some of the most pressing global challenges by fostering resilience and sustainability among vulnerable communities. Through partnerships with local governments, NGOs, and international bodies, BRF has implemented numerous successful projects aimed at improving living conditions, enhancing educational opportunities, and promoting economic growth.
BRF’s mission revolves around empowering communities through education, infrastructure development, and economic initiatives. Their approach is participatory and community-led, ensuring that solutions are tailor-made to fit the unique needs of each community they serve. As such, fellows can expect to work on projects that are not only impactful but also deeply rooted in local contexts.
The Fellowship Experience
The $220 International Development Fellowship offers a comprehensive program designed to immerse participants in the realities of international development work. Fellows will be placed in various project sites across Kenya where they will work alongside experienced professionals and local communities.
Key Components of the Fellowship
- Fieldwork: Fellows will engage directly with community members to understand their challenges and co-create sustainable solutions. This hands-on approach ensures that participants gain practical experience while making meaningful contributions.
- Workshops and Trainings: Regular workshops will cover essential topics such as project management, cultural competency, sustainable practices, and more. These sessions aim to equip fellows with the necessary skills to thrive in international development roles.
- Mentorship: Each fellow will be paired with a mentor from BRF’s team who will provide guidance throughout the fellowship period. Mentors offer invaluable insights into career development within the sector.
- Networking Opportunities: Fellows will have numerous chances to connect with professionals from various organizations working in Kenya’s development sector. These interactions can open doors for future collaborations or job opportunities.
- Cultural Exchange: Living and working in Kenya provides fellows with an immersive cultural experience that enhances their understanding of global interconnections.
Insights into Kenya
Kenya is a country steeped in rich history and vibrant culture located on Africa’s eastern coast along the Indian Ocean. Known for its diverse landscapes ranging from savannahs teeming with wildlife to bustling urban centers like Nairobi – its capital city – Kenya offers an intriguing mix of traditional heritage and modernity.
Economic Landscape
Kenya boasts one of Africa’s largest economies driven by agriculture (notably tea and coffee), tourism thanks largely due its renowned national parks such as Maasai Mara Reserve which hosts annual Great Migration), as well as rapidly growing industries like technology (“Silicon Savannah” being nickname coined for tech hub Nairobi).