The MASS African Design Centre Fellowship 2026 is a 12-month paid residency in Kigali, Rwanda, hosted by MASS Design Group. The program supports emerging African architects and designers with mentorship, practical experience, and resources to develop culturally grounded and community-driven design solutions.
The application deadline is Not specified – please see official page. If you are a built-environment professional from an African country and can relocate to Kigali from October 2026 to September 2027, this fellowship may be worth considering.
Application Deadline: Not specified – please see official page
Eligible Countries: Nationals of an African country
Program Duration: 12 months; October 2026 to September 2027
Program Location: Kigali, Rwanda
Funding/Benefits: Paid fellowship
Award Provider: MASS Design Group
About MASS African Design Centre Fellowship:
The African Design Centre Fellowship is a hands-on residency program for future African architects and designers. It aims to equip fellows with tools, mentorship, and resources that strengthen socially responsive design practice.
In addition, the program focuses on design approaches rooted in African heritage. Fellows explore culturally relevant and community-based solutions while working within the broader areas of work supported by MASS.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must be nationals of an African country.
- Applicants must be 35 years of age or below.
- Applicants must be built-environment professionals.
- Applicants must hold a degree in architecture, urban design, landscape, engineering, or a related field.
- Applicants must be able to relocate to Kigali, Rwanda, from October 2026 to September 2027.
What Fellows Receive: Paid fellowship, support from MASS program staff, assigned design mentors, and assigned professional mentors.
Program Components
Fellows are expected to:
- Conduct culturally rooted design research exploring indigenous knowledge systems, vernacular architecture, and urban patterns.
- Engage in community-based design projects within MASS initiatives and areas of work.
- Publish reflective pieces to share insights gained during the fellowship.
Preferred candidates are curious, collaborative, and driven emerging design leaders. They should also show commitment to social justice and environmental responsibility through their work.
Required application materials include:
- Resume/CV
- References
- Portfolio
- Statement of alignment
- Pre-fellowship essays
How to Apply for MASS African Design Centre Fellowship:
Apply online through the application portal: https://massdesigngroup.slideroom.com/
Before you apply, review the eligibility requirements, prepare the required documents, and confirm any additional instructions on the official page.
👉 Visit the official fellowship page for details
