Leaf Fellows Programme

We believe all students deserve access to content and community that help them use their passions and talents for good - that’s why we make our asynchronous online courses available - for free - to all applicants!

At the same time, we aim to support and mentor students who have particularly unique opportunities to abilities to have a positive impact. So after our five-week flagship programme, we select around 40 participants to become Leaf Fellows — a prestigious next-step opportunity for young people with extraordinary promise.

Fellows receive individual mentorship, access to expert networks, project support, funding opportunities, and continued guidance as they develop their academic and professional futures. The programme empowers students to turn ideas into action through research, entrepreneurship, advocacy, or other high-impact paths.

Summer 2025 applicants and Finalists: Learn more about this summer’s Fellowship dates and details here!

What Fellows receive

  • Exclusive mentorship from Leaf staff and external experts

  • Workshops and deep-dives on research design, leadership, career planning, and field-building

  • A private Fellows community to collaborate and exchange ideas

  • Up to £1,000 in grants for outstanding projects and initiatives

  • Opportunities to present their work through talks and showcases

  • Ongoing alumni support into the academic year and beyond

Fellows typically participate in structured programming for three weeks, then receive optional mentorship and opportunities for the rest of the year.

How we select Fellows

Fellows are chosen through a competitive application process based on:

  • Academic excellence and intellectual curiosity

  • Commitment to altruistic goals and positive impact

  • Engagement and leadership during the summer cohort (including in discussions, competitions, Discord activity, and Q&A events)

  • Potential for growth, especially in students with key uncertainties about their future paths where Leaf’s support can make a meaningful difference

Our goal is to identify and support students who not only show outstanding promise but who also stand to benefit most from mentorship, resources, and community at this pivotal stage in their development.