The Clooney Foundation Waging Justice for Women Fellowship Bursary 2025 – Closing Date: 4 October 2025

Hey future legal eagles! Are you a passionate woman lawyer ready to make a real difference in Africa? Then you absolutely need to hear about The Clooney Foundation Waging Justice for Women Fellowship Bursary! This isn’t just any bursary; it’s an incredible opportunity designed to equip early-career women lawyers with the skills and support to champion women’s rights and tackle gender-based violence across the continent. Imagine getting paid to fight for justice and make a lasting impact – sound good? Let’s dive in!

The Clooney Foundation for Justice’s Waging Justice for Women (WJW) Fellowship Bursary is a game-changer for aspiring women lawyers in Sub-Saharan Africa. It’s specifically created to empower the next generation of legal professionals who are committed to combating gender-based violence, challenging discriminatory laws, and fiercely defending the rights of women and girls. Through this program, you’ll gain practical experience, top-tier training, and invaluable mentorship, setting you up to be a powerful advocate for change. Think of it as your launchpad to a career dedicated to social justice.

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible for this impactful fellowship bursary, here’s what you generally need:

You must hold a law degree from a recognized academic institution.
You need to have a Practicing Certificate and work authorization to practice as a lawyer in the country of your selected host organization. Our host organizations are based in The Gambia, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Sierra Leone, South Africa, and Tanzania.
Important Note: Some regional organizations like the Institute for Human Rights and Development in Africa (IHRDA) in The Gambia and the Pan African Lawyers Union (PALU) in Tanzania may consider applications from qualified candidates licensed in other African countries and might be able to assist with international relocation costs and work permits. However, for most other host organizations, international relocation and work authorization costs cannot be supported.
You should have at least two years of post-qualification experience in the legal field.
This fellowship is tailored for early-career women lawyers, so generally, candidates with more than five years of post-qualification legal experience are less likely to be considered.
Experience in women’s rights and working within human rights organizations is preferred and will strengthen your application.

What Does It Cover?

This fellowship bursary is super comprehensive, designed to give you an all-around boost:

You’ll get a paid work placement at a leading human rights organization in Africa. These organizations specifically focus on gender justice issues and strategic litigation (that means using legal action to bring about significant social change!).
You’ll receive exceptional mentorship from WJW’s Head of Fellowships and your direct supervisors at the host organization.
Expect at least one in-person convening (think fantastic networking and deep-dive learning!) and an extensive monthly online training program led by top human rights experts from around the world.
You’ll gain fantastic networking opportunities with leading human rights experts, lawyers, judges, activists, and academics. You might even get to participate in high-profile events like the Obama Foundation’s Girls Opportunity Alliance!
Access to the exclusive WJW Fellowship Alumni Program network, providing ongoing support, knowledge sharing, and collaboration long after your fellowship ends.

How to Apply?

Ready to take this incredible step? Applying for The Clooney Foundation Waging Justice for Women Fellowship Bursary is straightforward:

The application deadline is 4 October 2025. Make sure to mark your calendar and don’t miss out!
For complete details on the application process and to access the official application portal, head directly to the Clooney Foundation for Justice’s official webpage: Visit the Official Webpage of the Clooney Foundation for Justice Waging Justice for Women Fellowship

This is truly a unique chance to kickstart your career as a powerful advocate for women’s rights in Africa. If you meet the criteria and are passionate about justice, don’t let this opportunity pass you by! Apply for The Clooney Foundation Waging Justice for Women Fellowship Bursary now and explore more amazing funding opportunities right here on Bursaries Room! Your future in law and justice starts today.