You belong to yourself and the way you chose to tell your story makes all the difference. Be purposeful and be the catalyst that South Africa needs. Join the fellowship and help build a South Africa that works for all.
Everything you need to know about the fellowship.
We build leaders through teaching. Because we hold a firm belief that excellent teachers are excellent leaders.
-
Lead. Inspire. Transform.
The Lead For South Africa Fellowship is more than a teaching opportunity, it’s a full-time, paid journey to lead change from where it matters most: the classroom. You’ll shape young minds, open doors of possibility, and prove that every child, no matter their background, can thrive when given the chance.
Quick Facts
Full-time, two-year leadership journey teaching in under-resourced schools across South Africa
Competitive salary and benefits, aligned with first-year teachers, plus exclusive LFSA support and training
Premier coaching and mentorship to help you grow as a leader in and beyond the classroom
Hands-on experience that builds confidence, resilience, and purpose, skills that set you apart wherever you go
Real, lasting impact in the lives of children, schools, and communities
A lifelong network of change makers and alumni shaping the future of South Africa and beyond
-
We’re not looking for one type of person. We’re looking for a mindset.
Your background doesn’t define you, your belief in what’s possible does. Whether you studied engineering or art, economics or education, what matters most is your drive to lead, learn, and make a difference that lasts.
Our Fellows are united by a few simple truths:
They believe every child’s potential is limitless.
They set bold goals and make them real.
They take initiative, grow fast, and never stop learning.
They value difference, and build bridges where others see divides.
They welcome feedback and seek out meaningful challenge.
They serve with heart and lead with purpose.
This isn’t just about teaching. It’s about transforming yourself, your community, and your country.
-
When you choose to serve, we make sure you’re supported.
As a Lead For South Africa Fellow, you’ll be placed in a local school and receive the same salary, vacation, and benefits as other first-year teachers. Beyond that, we provide additional support to help you settle in, focus on your mission, and thrive both personally and professionally.
Here’s what you can expect:
A competitive salary same as what first time teachers receive.
Comprehensive health coverage to keep you well while you make a difference
Retirement benefits to help you invest in your future.
Because when you commit to transforming lives, you deserve a system that invests in yours.
-
Teaching is bold work. But you’ll never do it alone.
At Lead For South Africa, you’re surrounded by a community that lifts you higher through every challenge, every breakthrough, every moment that reminds you why you chose to lead.
Your journey of support and growth includes:
Pre-service Training: immersive preparation alongside passionate new Fellows.
Personal Coach: one-on-one guidance throughout the school year.
Collaborative Learning: group sessions that spark ideas and fuel progress.
Mentorship: wisdom from veteran educators who’ve walked the path before you.
Resources that empower: on-demand virtual tools, health, and wellbeing support, anytime, anywhere.
And beyond the classroom, you’ll join a lifelong network of over 600 change makers mentors, peers, and advocates who open doors, offer guidance, and remind you that you’re part of something bigger.
-
From your very first day, you’ll step into the kind of leadership most people spend years preparing for. You’ll stand at the front of a classroom, shaping minds and futures, while building the skills that will shape your own. What you learn here will stay with you no matter where your journey leads next.
As a Lead For South Africa Fellow, you will:
Think strategically.
Adapt with courage.
Communicate with clarity.
Lead with empathy.
Deliver impact that lasts.
These are the skills that define great leaders; skills that our alumni carry into every field: education, policy, business, medicine, law, and technology. Because once you learn to lead change, you can lead anywhere.
Why Join ?
Join Now!
All it takes is two steps
Submit your application on-line.
Your journey to creating real change starts here. Share your achievements, your passions, and your experiences and tell us what drives you to shape the future through the Lead For South Africa Fellowship.
Experience the Assessment Centre.
Step into a day designed to challenge, inspire, and reveal your potential. At the Assessment Centre, a select few are invited to teach, collaborate, and explore their strengths through immersive activities and psychometric exercises. Join us in person, and take the first bold step toward a Fellowship that will shape your skills, your impact, and the leader you’re destined to become.