Leadership Fellowship for Women in Global Health 2026

About the role

The Harvard Global Health Institute offers a one-year fellowship for professionals from low- and middle-income countries to enhance leadership skills, focusing on mentoring future female leaders in global health. The program provides time for reflection and professional growth, with fellows representing 18 countries across Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, and South America. Their expertise spans research, advocacy, health policy, and administration, addressing diverse global health challenges such as HIV/AIDS and public health governance.

Responsibilities

• Craft a personal leadership development plan
• Participate in one-on-one executive coaching sessions
• Complete academic credentialing
• Prepare for U.S. travel (including J-1 visa application and course registration)
• Engage in virtual events and mentorship meetings
• Attend executive education courses
• Participate in leadership and public speaking workshops
• Engage in high-impact mentorship and networking opportunities
• Build community with Harvard faculty, peers, and other global leaders

Requirements

• Minimum of a master’s degree in a relevant field
• At least 10 years of full-time professional experience in global health (excluding academic internships or student roles)
• Currently based in and working in a low- or middle-income country
• Plan to return to their home country after the fellowship to continue their work
• Able to obtain a J-1 visa and reside in Boston during the in-residence portion
• Not have participated in a full-time fellowship of four months or longer in the past two years
• Support from their home institution, including a letter of commitment for leave of absence during the residency
• Nomination or support from a professional mentor within their network or organization

Qualifications

• Ability to obtain a J-1 visa and reside in Boston during the in-residence portion
• Support from their home institution, including a letter of commitment for leave of absence during the residency
• Nomination or support from a professional mentor within their network or organization

Skills

Strong leadership skills, ability to work independently and collaboratively, and proficiency in global health topics.

Benefits

• All costs associated with the residency—including housing, round-trip travel to Boston, course fees, and a daily per diem—are covered by the fellowship.
• Fellows are expected to take a formal leave of absence from their home institution during this period to fully focus on the fellowship experience.

Pay

Commensurate with experience.

Schedule

Virtual engagement during the fall semester, followed by an in-residence period at Harvard during the spring semester.