The African Youth Expert Development for Climate Action (AYEDE Climate Action) Fellowship is a 12-week, fully virtual capacity-building programme designed to equip young Nigerians aged 18–35 with the interdisciplinary skills, analytical tools, and mentorship needed to lead in climate policy, innovation, and green economy transformation.
Africa stands at the intersection of climate vulnerability and demographic opportunity. As climate impacts intensify across agriculture, energy, water systems, and livelihoods, there is an urgent need to strengthen youth participation in climate governance, climate finance, clean energy transitions, and community-based resilience initiatives.
The AYEDE Fellowship was established to directly address this gap.
The programme integrates structured learning, expert-led sessions, applied group projects, and personalized mentorship to develop Nigeria’s next generation of climate leaders.
Beyond its acronym, AYẸDẸ in the Yoruba language means “Life has come,” reflecting the fellowship’s mission to protect lives, nurture hope, and advance African-led climate solutions.
About SPID
The fellowship is implemented by the Sustainable Participatory Development and Climate Resilience Initiative (SPID), a youth-led organisation committed to advancing participatory climate governance, sustainable development, and community-driven resilience across Africa.
SPID works at the intersection of policy, innovation, and grassroots engagement to strengthen inclusive climate solutions and build the next generation of climate experts for the global green workforce in support of a just transition.
Vision Statement
A just, resilient, and sustainable Africa where communities and young people are empowered to shape their environmental and social development futures through inclusive, participatory governance and action.
Mission Statement
To amplify the voices of vulnerable and marginalized communities, build local capacity, and promote equitable, innovative, and sustainable climate and environmental solutions through participatory education, research, policy advocacy, and leadership development.
Fellowship Objectives
The AYEDE Climate Action Fellowship aims to:
- Increase equitable access to high-quality climate education for young Nigerians
- Strengthen interdisciplinary climate competencies across policy, finance, technology, and adaptation sectors
- Provide structured mentorship and professional guidance from experienced climate experts
- Support youth-led climate solutions through collaborative project development
- Enhance career readiness and leadership capacity in emerging green-economy sectors
Who Should Apply?
We are seeking:
- Young Nigerians aged 18–35
- Individuals with at least one year of engagement in climate or development-related work (volunteering, academic research, or community initiatives)
- Demonstrated commitment to climate action
- Willingness to commit approximately 5 hours per week
- Stable access to internet connectivity
- Strong interest in applying learning to real-world impact
At least 50% of selected fellows will be women.
We strongly encourage applications from underserved regions and communities.
Note: This fellowship is currently in its pilot phase; therefore, the first cohort is open to Nigerians only.
What You Will Gain
By the end of the fellowship, participants will:
- Gain in-depth knowledge of African and global climate governance systems
- Develop practical skills in climate finance and proposal development
- Understand clean energy transitions and circular economy models
- Apply systems thinking tools to climate challenges
- Strengthen research and monitoring & evaluation competencies
- Enhance project management and community engagement capacity
- Collaborate on group climate innovation projects
- Join a growing network of African climate professionals
Participants who successfully complete all programme requirements will receive:
- A Certificate of Completion
- A Letter of Recommendation
- Potential internship placement opportunities
Important Dates
- February – Applications Open
- March – Application Deadline
- Late March – Selection Notification
- Early April – Orientation Session
- April – Fellowship Begins
- June – Final Project Showcase & Graduation
Application Deadline: 14 March 2026