Are you a leader with a vision for a more sustainable and equitable future? Do you want to be at the forefront of global change, tackling critical challenges in food security, energy systems, and governance? Then buckle up, because an extraordinary opportunity awaits! The Indo-Pacific Futures Fellowship (IPFF)—a transformative leadership program by the East-West Center and Doris Duke Foundation—is now accepting applications for its 2025-2026 cohort!
What is the Indo-Pacific Futures Fellowship?
This prestigious fellowship brings together emerging global leaders dedicated to resilient, sustainable development in the Indo-Pacific region. Now in its second year, the program fosters leadership and innovation in addressing some of today’s biggest challenges: unequal access to resources, environmental instability, and governance gaps.
Through a highly immersive experience, selected fellows will:
- Examine vital connections between food security, energy systems, and leadership.
- Develop strategies to ensure reliable access to essential resources while promoting economic and environmental sustainability.
- Engage with top experts and peers through in-person residencies in Hawai‘i and Aotearoa (New Zealand).
- Expand their leadership network and gain lifelong skills to drive meaningful change.
- Implement a capstone project that tackles real-world challenges in their communities.
This is not just a fellowship—it’s a career-defining adventure that will connect you with a global network of changemakers!
Why Should You Apply?
The Indo-Pacific Futures Fellowship is an unparalleled opportunity for professionals who:
- Have 5-10 years of leadership experience in food and energy systems, governance, or advocacy.
- Are passionate about solving global challenges related to food security and energy transitions.
- Want exclusive access to global experts, policymakers, and thought leaders.
- Are ready for an immersive experience—including two weeks of travel in 2025 and one week in 2026, plus virtual learning sessions.
- Seek a life-changing leadership journey with real-world impact.
Program Timeline & Locations
Pre-Residency Virtual Sessions: October 13-26, 2025
Honolulu, Hawai‘i Residency: October 27-November 7, 2025
Virtual Sessions: November 8, 2025 – May 24, 2026
Wellington, New Zealand Residency: May 25-31, 2026.
The program will blend in-person, virtual, and hands-on leadership development, ensuring a holistic and transformative experience.
Who Can Apply?
The Indo-Pacific Futures Fellowship is open to applicants from any country who meet the following criteria:
- 5-10 years of professional leadership experience in food, energy, governance, advocacy, or related fields.
- Strong interest in addressing global sustainability challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.
- Fluent English proficiency (official language test scores are encouraged but not mandatory).
- A valid passport (must be valid through end of 2026).
- Commitment to full participation in all program components.
Bonus Qualification: While not required, applicants with at least 3 years of higher education are preferred.
How to Apply?
Apply: https://www.eastwestcenter.org/projects/indo-pacific-futures-fellowship.
- Application Deadline: April 18, 2025 (11:00 PM Hawai‘i Standard Time)
- Reference Letter Deadline: April 27, 2025
- Submission: Applications must be submitted online through Submittable.
