2027 Movement Leader Fellowship: A Comprehensive Leadership Development Opportunity for Experienced Social Justice Organizers
The 2027 Movement Leader Fellowship is a seven-month program designed for experienced social justice organizers to enhance their strategic leadership, management, and movement-building skills. Created by Leadership for Democracy and Social Justice, it combines academic coursework, coaching, and retreats while allowing participants to remain employed full-time.
Overview
The Movement Leader Fellowship is an intensive seven-month professional development program operating from January through July 2027. Created by Leadership for Democracy and Social Justice, it equips experienced social justice organizers with graduate-level academic learning, personalized leadership coaching, immersive retreats, and peer collaboration. Fellows continue working full-time in their organizations while applying new tools directly to their campaigns and communities.
Benefits
- Graduate-level coursework focusing on leadership, organizing, and systems change.
- Individualized leadership coaching to address management responsibilities and strategic challenges.
- Immersive retreats for collaborative learning and strategic planning.
- Access to a national network of experienced organizers.
- Substantial financial support covering the majority of the $27,600 program cost, with sliding-scale contributions and scholarship options available.
Eligibility
- Approximately 10 to 15 years of experience in social justice leadership.
- Demonstrated commitment to long-term movement building and grassroots organizing.
- Current full-time employment within an organization that builds power through organizing and member engagement.
- Active involvement in leading teams, campaigns, budgets, major initiatives, or organizational projects.
- Connection to historically oppressed communities and a commitment to rigorous peer learning.
How to Apply
Interested candidates can submit their applications online. Applicants may also attend virtual information sessions scheduled for August 27, 2026, September 15, 2026, and October 14, 2026.
Deadline
Applications are accepted with a priority deadline of September 21, 2026, and a final deadline of October 19, 2026.