Call for Applications - The Asia Foundation Development Fellows Program
Program Description:
The Asia Foundation Development Fellows program is a dynamic and multifaceted learning program designed for highly talented individuals under 40 from Asia and the Pacific to enhance their leadership skills, Asia-Pacific development knowledge, professional networks, and international exposure. The program reflects TAF’s seven-decade investment in the most promising future leaders in Asia and the Pacific.
The Asia Foundation Development Fellows program consists of the following components:
Spring 2026: Leadership Training Program & Study Tour
Korea, April 19 to 25, 2026
The Leadership Dialogue and Exchange program in Asia and the Pacific presents a series of highly interactive leadership training modules with executive coaches; site visits with leading development practitioners and thinkers, recognized policy leaders, and local innovators; short assignments; and sessions focused on building self-awareness and wellness for leaders. Training modules focus on strategic thinking and decision-making, working with participants on developing critical perspectives, problem-solving skills, managing change, and introducing innovative approaches in leadership and management. Site visits will allow fellows to explore approaches that deliver positive impact and advance development knowledge. The program takes place in countries across Asia and the Pacific where local needs and challenges serve as a contextual backdrop for exploring theories of change and practice in international development.
Fall 2026: Leadership Dialogue and Exchange Program
United States, September 28 to October 7, 2026
The Leadership Dialogue and Exchange Program will continue the work from the spring session, providing important opportunities for Fellows to extend personal bonds with their cohort and build new international perspectives and networks of support. The Fellows will participate in a comprehensive series of programs, policy discussions, and unique learning and leadership development opportunities organized in the United States.
Applications open on September 23, 2025, and will be accepted through 11:59pm EST on Monday, November 10, 2025.
Professional Development Award
An award of up to USD 2,500 will be made available to each selected fellow. This cash award will allow fellows the opportunity to design individualized plans to further their leadership skills and relevant professional experience in areas of particular importance to their career growth. Each fellow will be asked to develop a personalized year-long work plan that can involve enrollment in specialized training programs or short courses, language study, travel to attend key regional forums or workshops, or engagement in other enrichment activities.
Executive Coaching & Mentoring
The Asia Foundation lends valuable perspectives to the field of leadership development, with a proven program history and record of commitment throughout Asia and the Pacific. Building on the regional network and local capacity of TAF, the program offers mentorship-matching support tailored to the background and professional interests of each of the fellows. Additionally, fellows are offered a fixed number of one-on-one executive coaching sessions throughout their fellowship year.
Eligibility and Selection Criteria
Asia Foundation Development Fellows must:
Have a demonstrable record of experience and accomplishment related to The Asia Foundation’s fields of expertise: governance, economic development, women’s empowerment, environmental resilience, education and leadership, and international cooperation.
Be thoughtful, committed, respected, and inspirational leaders within their professional fields and their larger community.
Be under 40 years of age by January 1, 2026.
Be conversant in English (TOEFL exam results are not required).
Be available and able to participate in all program components on the program dates specified.
Be able to secure a visa for travel to the United States.
Be resident nationals or citizens of the following countries and regions: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Maldives, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pacific Islands, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam.
Selection Process
The program is highly competitive. Staff from The Asia Foundation will evaluate each application thoroughly and narrow down the pool of applicants. A committee with expertise onAsia and the Pacific will conduct final selections. Fellows will be chosen regardless of gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, ethnic background, marital status, or financial need. All submitted application information will be treated as confidential unless stated otherwise in the application. The identities of nominees will also remain confidential throughout the final selection process.
Selection Timeline:
September 23 to November 10, 2025: Applications open.
November 2025 to January 2026: Internal Asia Foundation review.
January and February 2026: The selection committee convenes and selects from a pool of finalists; final selection is announced, and the fellowship year commences.
For more information, please review the Application Guidelines and Instructions.
For questions, please contact development.fellows@asiafoundation.org only. Inquiries will not be answered via the organizational phone line, general email, media contact, or social media channels.
