Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – AKFC International Fellowship Program
- What is the AKFC International Fellowship Program?
- What is the difference between IDM, IMM and YPM?
- How long is the Fellowship?
- Where are the Fellowships located?
- What organizations do Fellows volunteer with?
- How many Fellows are selected to participate?
- How much does the Fellowship cost?
- Who is eligible?
- What qualities is AKFC looking for in a Fellow?
- I previously applied for, was offered, or completed an AKFC Fellowship. Can I apply again?
- What is the selection process for the Fellowship Program?
- How will AKFC help me prepare for my placement?
- If I am chosen as a Fellow, will I officially work for AKFC or for the host organization?
- If I am selected for a Fellowship, will I be placed in a management position?
- What does AKFC look for during the interview process?
- Can you apply for more than one stream?
1. What is the AKFC International Fellowship Program?
Founded in 1989, the AKFC International Fellowship Program is a professional development program for young Canadians seeking hands-on experience in international development. The Fellowship includes three unique streams: International Development Management (IDM); International Microfinance and Microenterprise (IMM); and Young Professionals in Media (YPM).
2. What is the difference between IDM, IMM and YPM?
International Development Management (IDM) encompasses a broad range of development sectors and specializations. These include positions in research, communications, monitoring & evaluation and administration in the sectors of health, education, environment, rural development and civil society strengthening.
International Microfinance and Microenterprise (IMM) is for applicants with backgrounds in finance and business. IMM Fellows gain hands-on experience in fostering entrepreneurship, developing businesses and providing financial services and products. Potential host organizations may include microfinance institutions and market development units.
Young Professionals in Media (YPM) is designed for outstanding young Canadian journalists who have a desire and an aptitude to work effectively in today’s global media environment. Placements are with the Nation Media Group, a leading media institution in East Africa.
3. How long is the Fellowship?
The Fellowship Program is nine months in duration, and consists of a one-month training in Ottawa followed by an eight-month overseas placement.
4. Where are the Fellowships located?
The eight-month overseas portion of the Fellowship is spent in a host country in Africa or Asia. The host countries change each year, but could include Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Egypt, India, Kenya, Madagascar, Mali, Mozambique, Tajikistan, Tanzania, and Uganda.
5. What organizations do Fellows work with?
During the overseas placement in Asia or Africa, IDM and IMM Fellows work with a non-governmental organization engaged in community and/or economic development. Many of the host organizations are agencies of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN).
YPM Fellows work with the Nation Media Group in East Africa.
6. How many Fellows are selected to participate?
AKFC accepts 20 Fellows to participate in the program each year.
7. How much does the Fellowship cost?
AKFC covers most of the costs associated with living and working overseas, including travel, accommodation, vaccinations and health insurance, and a modest stipend to cover cost of living. The successful candidates are required to make a one-time contribution of $1000 towards the costs of the Fellowship.
Application & Selection
All Fellows must meet the following application criteria:
- - Hold, at minimum, a bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution by April 30th 2013, with a record of strong academic performance.
- - Will not be enrolled in any educational program for the duration of the Fellowship Program (July 2013 – March 2014).
- - Demonstrated commitment to international development through related volunteer, professional or academic experience
- - Be 30 years of age or under on or before February 1st, 2013.
- - Be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant.
- - Be fluent in English.
9. What qualities is AKFC looking for in a Fellow?
Successful Fellowship Program candidates have demonstrated leadership potential and excellence in their academic and professional lives. Fellows also complement a strong interest in International Development with volunteer and extracurricular activities that demonstrate their willingness to support the growth of communities both at home and abroad.
While overseas, Fellows are expected to live simply, often in rural communities or large urban centres. As such, individuals with the flexibility and maturity to adapt to new contexts and communities are ideal as Fellows.10. I previously applied for, was offered, or completed an AKFC Fellowship. Can I apply again?
Applicants who have previously completed an AKFC Fellowship (IDM, IMM or YPM stream) are not eligible to participate again in the program.
Candidates who have previously applied, or who were unable to accept a past offer of a Fellowship position, are welcome to re-submit their application once per recruitment cycle.
11. What is the selection process for the Fellowship Program?
Applicants must submit a complete application, along with reference forms, by February 1st, 2013. AKFC assesses all applications received based on skills and experience and personal suitability for a potential placement, but due to the high volume of applications only successful applicants will be invited for an interview.
Interviews will occur in mid-Feburary 2013. Following the interview stage, successful candidates will receive an offer of placement outlining their Fellowship position.
12. How will AKFC help me prepare for my placement?
AKFC provides administrative and financial support to help meet medical requirements (vaccinations) and secure travel document applications for Fellows.
The month-long pre-departure Management Seminar provides a unique forum for intellectual engagement and workshops to develop knowledge and skills related to the overseas placement. The practitioner-oriented seminar is intended to prepare Fellows for their placements and also equip them with skills and perspectives that will benefit them in a career in international development. Workshops are taught by some of Canada’s foremost international cooperation practitioners.
13. If I am chosen as a Fellow, will I officially work for AKFC or for the host organization?
While overseas, host organizations will set the day-to-day tasks and the professional protocol for Fellows. Fellows will take direction from supervisors in their host organization and abide by the holidays and working hours of the host organization.
However, the relationship between AKFC and the Fellows is one of mutual obligation where AKFC provides support in a variety of areas. AKFC maintains constant communication with the Fellows during the placement.
14. If I am selected for a Fellowship, will I be placed in a management position?
Fellows are placed in young professional positions. The Fellows are not intended to be “managers” but rather to build the skills and knowledge that will be valuable in their long-term careers as development managers and practitioners.
15. What does AKFC look for during the interview process?
Candidates will be expected to communicate realistic and mature expectations of the Fellowship experience and a sophisticated understanding of general development concepts and issues. Additionally, candidates should be able to discuss their own experiences relating to intercultural sensitivity, initiative, flexibility and adaptability, teamwork and maturity.
16. Can you apply for more than one stream?
No, please apply for one stream only. Upon review of your application, we may find that your skills and experience are better suited for a different stream. If you have indicated on your application that you are open to other streams, AKFC will consider you for alternative placements. Please note that deliberate submissions of multiple applications will result in the removal of all applications from the program.
