MASS African Design Centre Fellowship: Shape Future African Design

MASS African Design Centre Fellowship: Cultivating Future African Architects and Designers

The MASS African Design Centre Fellowship offers a unique twelve-month residency in Kigali, Rwanda, for emerging design leaders from across the African continent. This program is specifically designed to equip future African architects and designers with the necessary tools, mentorship, and resources to address significant infrastructure challenges. By focusing on culturally grounded and community-driven solutions, the fellowship aims to empower participants to innovate while respecting and integrating Africa’s rich architectural heritage.

The fellowship is seeking individuals who are passionate about social justice and environmental responsibility in their design work. Ideal candidates are those who are eager to learn, collaborate, and contribute to a movement that uses locally driven design to create meaningful change. Participants will gain hands-on experience with various MASS initiatives, including those focused on maternal and newborn health, economic opportunity, climate-positive development, and community-led innovation. Fellows are encouraged to bring their unique perspectives and questions to the program, engaging with the diverse challenges and opportunities that MASS is exploring.

Fellowship Activities and Support

During the twelve-month residency, fellows will engage in several key activities designed to foster their growth and impact. They will conduct design research that is deeply rooted in local contexts, exploring indigenous knowledge systems, traditional architecture, and urban patterns. A significant part of the fellowship involves participating in community-based design projects that align with MASS’s various initiatives. This practical experience allows fellows to apply their learning directly to real-world issues.

Furthermore, fellows will be supported in disseminating the knowledge and insights they gain throughout their time in the program. This includes publishing reflective pieces that share their experiences and findings. The program provides comprehensive support from MASS staff, along with guidance from assigned design and professional mentors. This paid fellowship requires participants to relocate to Kigali, Rwanda, for the duration of the program, typically from October to September.

Eligibility Requirements for Applicants

To be considered for the MASS African Design Centre Fellowship, applicants must meet specific criteria. Primarily, candidates must be nationals of an African country and be 35 years of age or younger. The program is open to built-environment professionals who hold a degree in fields such as architecture, urban design, landscape architecture, engineering, or other related disciplines. A strong academic background and a demonstrated passion for design are essential.

A crucial requirement for all selected fellows is the ability to relocate to Kigali, Rwanda, for the entire twelve-month fellowship period. This commitment is necessary to fully immerse in the program’s activities and community. The fellowship runs from October 2026 to September 2027, and successful candidates must be prepared to make this relocation.

The Application Process

The application for the MASS African Design Centre Fellowship is a structured, three-stage selection process designed to identify the most promising candidates. The initial stage involves submitting an expression of interest. Eligible candidates are asked to provide their resumes or CVs, professional references, a portfolio showcasing their work, and a statement of alignment with the fellowship’s goals. This stage helps to gauge the applicant’s background and initial fit for the program.

Candidates who successfully pass the first stage will be shortlisted and invited to proceed to Stage 2. In this phase, shortlisted individuals will be required to submit pre-fellowship essays. These essays provide an opportunity for applicants to elaborate on their ideas, motivations, and how they envision contributing to the fellowship. They will also need to confirm their availability to fully participate in all fellowship activities.

The final stage, Stage 3, involves interviews for candidates who have submitted successful essays. This interview process allows the selection committee to gain a deeper understanding of the candidates, assess their communication skills, and evaluate their potential for collaboration and leadership. Successful candidates from this stage will be offered a place in the MASS African Design Centre Fellowship.