The John Lewis Young Leaders (JLYL) program looks for highly motivated students who are interested in making a career out of organizing work. These students should be self-starters and not afraid to go against the grain. Students should be able to see themselves as human rights defenders and be impact-minded. Most importantly, we look for students who come from marginalized backgrounds and are most often targeted by systemic issues that do not afford them the opportunities and resources needed to become human rights advocates.

What We Are Looking For
The John Lewis Young Leaders (JLYL) program looks for highly motivated students who are interested in making a career out of organizing work. These students should be self-starters and not afraid to go against the grain. Students should be able to see themselves as human rights defenders and be impact-minded. Most importantly, we look for students who come from marginalized backgrounds and are most often targeted by systemic issues that do not afford them the opportunities and resources needed to become human rights advocates.

Eligibility Criteria:
An undergraduate student
Enrolled in a 2 or 4 year accredited program
Enrolled in a university located in the United States

Priority is Given To:
Students attending an HBCU, HSI, or HMSI
Students from marginalized communities

Fellowship Benefits:

• $2,000 professional stipend (paid in two $1,000 installments over the fall and spring semesters)
• $1,000 in funding for events and activities related to the completion of your capstone project
• Paid-for retreat in the summer
• Agency to focus on elevating social issues that motivate and inspire you
• Access to content-rich resources from expert community organizers and activists