The Qi Social Innovation Center, in partnership with Columbia Global Center Beijing, has announced the launch of its Fellowship For Change (FFC) program for 2025. This prestigious one-year scholarship opportunity is tailored for high school students in China passionate about spearheading transformative social and environmental change.
Program Overview
The FFC is designed to support 20 selected students in Grades 10-12 who demonstrate a deep commitment to community service and proactive problem-solving. The year-long program integrates the students’ academic schooling with immersive learning and individualized mentorship. The goal is to equip young social innovators with the skills, knowledge, and support needed to develop impactful solutions that address the root causes of pressing social and environmental challenges.
Learning Summits and Program Structure
A key component of the FFC program is its three in-person Learning Summits, scheduled for July 13-20, 2025, January 2026, and July 2026. During these summits, Fellows will engage with renowned professors and facilitators from Columbia University. Each summit incorporates five main pillars:
- Academic Sessions: Led by Columbia University professors, covering critical learning modules.
- Experiential Learning: Field visits and guest lectures with professionals and organizations making significant social impacts.
- Reading Discussions: Sessions encouraging reflection on philosophical readings and sharing diverse perspectives.
- Team-Building Activities: Exercises that emphasize unity, collaboration, and leveraging individual strengths.
- Project Studio Time: Practical workshops allowing Fellows to apply their learnings in real-time project development.
Between these summits, participants will continue developing their projects with the support of mentor coaching and online learning sessions, fostering their ability to research, design, and pilot initiatives that create lasting change.
Unique Experiences Offered
Fellows will have opportunities that include interactive activities at iconic sites like the Great Wall, in-person guest lectures, and visits to local community centers and professional environments. These experiences are aimed at inspiring Fellows and helping them understand the real-world applications of their learning.
Program Benefits
The FFC program boasts a variety of benefits:
- World-Class Learning: Academic training from Columbia University professors.
- Enhanced Skills for College: Amplification of core competencies to bolster college applications.
- Global Network: The chance to build connections with social innovation practitioners worldwide.
- Experiential Exposure: First-hand experiences with impactful organizations and community leaders.
Who Should Apply?
The FFC program is open to students across China who are entering Grades 10-12 in September 2025 and possess a genuine passion for making a positive difference. Ideal candidates will:
- Show commitment to addressing a social or environmental issue in their community.
- Demonstrate perseverance, creativity, and proactive problem-solving skills.
- Prioritize teamwork and effective listening.
- Bring unique perspectives shaped by their diverse experiences.
- Be fluent in English, enabling them to fully engage with program activities.
Application and Selection Process
Students interested in the FFC program must submit their applications (https://globalcenters.columbia.edu/content-beijing/fellowship-change-program-2025) by January 5, 2025. Important dates include:
- Shortlist Notification: February 10, 2025.
- Interviews: Conducted from February 10 to March 17, 2025, potentially in two rounds.
- Offers Issued: Between March 20 and April 4, 2025.