Clooney Foundation Waging Justice for Women Fellowship 2027
About this opportunity
Paid fellowship for 10 early-career women lawyers in sub-Saharan Africa (Kenya, Malawi, South Africa, The Gambia) to provide legal services to women and children, combat child marriage/violence, with mentorship, training, and network access.
The Clooney Foundation Waging Justice for Women Fellowship 2027 is a paid opportunity for early-career women lawyers in Sub-Saharan Africa, placing fellows in human rights organizations across Kenya, Malawi, South Africa, and The Gambia. The programme provides hands-on legal work, mentorship, training, and access to a global network to combat child marriage and violence against women and children. Fellows engage in legal advocacy, research, client support, and court representation while receiving structured professional development, including in-person and online sessions. Upon completion, they join the CFJ Fellowship Alumni Network for continued support.
What it offers
- Paid work placement at a human rights organization, university legal aid clinic, or government legal institution.
- Mentorship from leading human rights experts and host supervisors.
- In-person and monthly online training led by CFJ and regional experts.
- Access to a global network of lawyers, judges, activists, and academics.
- Alumni network for ongoing professional growth.
Who can apply
The fellowship is open to early-career women lawyers with up to five years of legal experience, holding a law degree from a recognized institution, a practicing certificate, and work authorization in one of the host countries. Fluency in English is required.
What you'll do
Fellows provide legal services for women and children throughout the justice process, including:
- Legal research and drafting
- Client support and representation
- Strategic litigation to end violence against women and children
- Advocacy and technology-driven solutions
How to apply
- Review eligibility requirements and ensure qualification.
- Prepare required documents: law degree certificate, practicing certificate, and CV.
- Access and submit through the official CFJ application portal by October 20, 2026.
Good to know
- The fellowship does not cover relocation or work authorization costs.
- Preferred but not required: experience in women’s rights, human rights, or vulnerable communities.
- Willingness to travel is beneficial.
Key details
What you get
- Paid work placement at a human rights organization.
- Mentorship from leading human rights experts.
- In-person and monthly online training.
- Access to a global network of lawyers, judges, activists, and academics.
- Alumni network for professional growth.
Documents needed
- Law degree certificate
- Practicing certificate
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
How to apply
- Review eligibility requirements.
- Prepare required documents: law degree, practicing certificate, CV.
- Access and submit via the official CFJ application portal by October 20, 2026.
Get more like this by email
A weekly email of new opportunities. Free, one click to stop.