TOMA BAṜRE EDUCATION
GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT FELLOWSHIP
Strive • Unite • Build.
Fellowship Overview
Global Development Fellowship Overview
The Global Development Fellowship is an intensive international applied-learning experience for qualifying gap-year applicants and students in technical, trade, college, or university pathways. Fellows contribute to active humanitarian and community-development initiatives.
- Fellowship period
- October – August
- Program Commitment
- 175 – 300 total hours
- Format
- Weekly virtual participation, independent work
- Participation
- Nationwide and international
- Fellowship Tracks
International Governance & Financial Oversight (IGFO)
Crisis Risk & Operational Intelligence (CROI)
Mechanical Systems & Technical Development (MSTD)
Research & Strategic Intelligence (RSI)
- Onsite experience
- Costa Rica, when applicable
This is not a simulated project.
Fellows investigate real questions on active initiatives alongside real people and institutions; research, analysis, recommendations, and presentations are treated as professional deliverables, intended to hold value beyond the Fellowship.
Do work you would be comfortable putting your name on.
Fellowship work may be seen by
- Employers
- Universities
- Industry Professionals
- Implementation Partners
- TOMA BAṜRE Leadership
Work may strengthen a portfolio, résumé, or graduate-school application; the Fellowship does not promise employment, admission, or placement.
Fellowship Roles
Fellows contribute through one of three roles, reflecting how they engage with research, analysis, and project work.
Who the Fellowship Is For
For people who care enough to act.
This Fellowship is for people who value people—and believe their skills should be useful beyond themselves. People willing to become invested in the work and those it affects, and to take responsibility for its quality. We are looking for fellows who listen with intention, think critically, follow through, and remain human-centered when the work becomes complex. Whether your ability is demonstrated or still emerging, arrive ready to participate, contribute, and be accountable.
Come prepared to contribute.
Leave knowing what you are capable of.
The Work
- Applied research
- Recommendations & operational plans
- Cross-disciplinary collaboration
- Active international projects
- Final presentation
Structure & Mentorship
Defined expectations, timelines, and responsibilities with identifiable points of contact. Professional mentors provide guidance, review, and organizational oversight, with responsible participant support.
Ethical Engagement
Communities and organizations connected to our projects are partners and stakeholders—never subjects. Fellows are expected to work with professionalism, respect, cultural awareness, accountability, and responsibility.
International Project Footprint
Afghanistan · Sudan · India · Mexico
Fellowship Onsite Experience
Costa Rica
Fellows do not travel to project locations. The Costa Rica onsite experience is limited to selected, eligible Fellows, subject to project needs, funding, safety, and demonstrated readiness.
How to Apply
- I
Review the Fellowship, its timeline, and expectations.
- II
Confirm eligibility and October–August readiness.
- III
- IV
Selected applicants are contacted before track placement.
Explore the Fellowship. Review your readiness. Apply when prepared.