Applications are now open for the 2027–2028 Harvard LEAD Fellowship for Promoting Women in Global Health, a one-year leadership development programme offered through the Harvard Global Health Institute (HGHI).
The fellowship supports experienced global health professionals from low- and middle-income countries, equipping them with leadership skills, mentorship, executive education and international networking opportunities. Fellows will also participate in a six-week in-person experience at Harvard University in Spring 2028.
The programme aims to strengthen women's leadership and promote greater equity in global health by supporting professionals who are positioned to influence health systems, policies and practices in their countries and beyond.
At a Glance
Programme: Harvard LEAD Fellowship for Promoting Women in Global Health
Host Institution: Harvard Global Health Institute, Harvard University
Duration: One year
Cohort: 2027–2028
Location: Harvard University, United States, for the in-person component
In-Person Experience: Six weeks in Spring 2028
Eligible Applicants: Experienced global health professionals from low- and middle-income countries
Benefits: Leadership coaching, mentorship, executive education, networking and an in-person Harvard experience
Application Deadline: 8 November 2026
About the Fellowship
The Harvard Global Health Institute is an interfaculty initiative that promotes collaboration across Harvard University and with partners worldwide to advance global health equity.
Through the LEAD Fellowship, Harvard supports women working in global health who want to strengthen their leadership capabilities, expand their professional networks and contribute to improving health outcomes.
The programme combines structured learning, mentorship and practical leadership development to help fellows address complex challenges in global health.
Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows will benefit from:
- Leadership coaching to strengthen professional and strategic leadership skills.
- Mentorship from experienced professionals and leaders.
- Executive education to develop decision-making and management capabilities.
- Networking opportunities with global health professionals and experts.
- A six-week in-person experience at Harvard University in Spring 2028.
- Opportunities to strengthen their ability to influence global health policies, institutions and programmes.
- Professional development through engagement with an international community of women leaders.
Funding note: The announcement provided does not specify the complete financial coverage, including travel, accommodation, tuition or living expenses. Applicants should consult the official fellowship information to confirm the funding arrangements.
Eligibility Criteria
The published announcement identifies experienced global health professionals from low- and middle-income countries as the target applicants.
Prospective applicants should review the official eligibility requirements to confirm the specific criteria, including professional experience, academic qualifications and any other application conditions.
The fellowship is particularly relevant to women professionals seeking to strengthen their leadership and influence in global health.
Who Should Apply?
This fellowship may be suitable for experienced professionals working in areas such as:
- Public health and health systems strengthening.
- Global health policy and advocacy.
- Health research and academic institutions.
- Healthcare programme management.
- Health equity and community health.
- International development and health-related organisations.
Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to advancing global health and be interested in developing their leadership capacity to create meaningful change.
Programme Duration and In-Person Experience
The fellowship runs for one year during the 2027–2028 cohort.
A key component is a six-week in-person experience at Harvard University in Spring 2028, complemented by leadership coaching, mentorship, executive education and networking opportunities.
Application Deadline
8 November 2026
Interested applicants should review the official programme requirements and submit their applications before the deadline.
How to Apply
- Visit the official Harvard Global Health Institute website.
- Open the announcement for the 2027–2028 Harvard LEAD Fellowship for Promoting Women in Global Health.
- Review the eligibility requirements, application instructions and funding details.
- Prepare the required application materials.
- Submit your application through the official application portal before 8 November 2026.
