The Model of Architecture Serving Society (MASS) African Design Centre Fellowship 2026 is a unique opportunity for African architects and designers to make a meaningful impact in their communities, and the application deadline is fast approaching on June 14, 2026. This 12-month residency program in Kigali, Rwanda, offers a chance to develop essential skills, gain valuable experience, and contribute to the continent’s urbanization. By applying for this fellowship, African architects and designers can take the first step towards shaping the future of their communities and preserving Africa’s rich architectural heritage.
About the Opportunity
The Model of Architecture Serving Society (MASS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing design services to communities in need, with a focus on social justice and environmental responsibility. The African Design Centre Fellowship is a key initiative of MASS, aimed at empowering African architects and designers to lead the continent’s urbanization and develop culturally grounded, community-driven design solutions. By supporting the next generation of African design leaders, MASS hopes to address the significant infrastructure challenges facing the continent while preserving and integrating Africa’s architectural heritage.
The MASS African Design Centre Fellowship is a hands-on residency program that offers a unique opportunity for African architects and designers to work on real-world projects, collaborate with experienced professionals, and develop essential skills in design, leadership, and community engagement. The fellowship is designed to foster a deep understanding of the social, cultural, and environmental contexts of African communities, and to equip fellows with the tools and resources needed to create innovative, effective, and sustainable design solutions. By participating in the fellowship, African architects and designers can gain valuable experience, build their professional networks, and contribute to the development of their communities.
The fellowship is also an opportunity for African architects and designers to be part of a community of like-minded professionals who are passionate about using design to drive positive change in their communities. The MASS African Design Centre Fellowship is a platform for fellows to share their ideas, learn from each other’s experiences, and collaborate on projects that can have a meaningful impact on the continent. By supporting the development of African architects and designers, MASS hopes to promote a new generation of design leaders who are committed to social justice, environmental responsibility, and community engagement.
Who Can Apply
The MASS African Design Centre Fellowship is open to emerging design leaders from African countries who are passionate about using design to drive positive change in their communities.
- Nationality: Applicants must be nationals of an African country, with a deep understanding of the social, cultural, and environmental contexts of African communities.
- Professional background: Applicants must have a background in architecture, design, or a related field, with a demonstrated commitment to social justice and environmental responsibility.
- Language proficiency: Applicants must be fluent in English, with excellent communication and collaboration skills.
- Experience: Applicants must have at least 2-3 years of experience in design, architecture, or a related field, with a portfolio of work that demonstrates their skills and accomplishments.
What You Will Gain
The MASS African Design Centre Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for African architects and designers to gain valuable experience, develop essential skills, and contribute to the development of their communities.
- Hands-on experience: Fellows will work on real-world projects, collaborating with experienced professionals and developing essential skills in design, leadership, and community engagement.
- Mentorship and guidance: Fellows will receive mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals, with regular feedback and support to help them achieve their goals.
- Networking opportunities: Fellows will have the opportunity to build their professional networks, connecting with like-minded professionals and potential collaborators.
- Leadership development: Fellows will develop essential leadership skills, including project management, team leadership, and community engagement.
- Cultural immersion: Fellows will have the opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of Rwanda, with a deep immersion in the social, cultural, and environmental contexts of African communities.
Application Deadline
Do not miss this opportunity to take the first step towards shaping the future of your community. The application deadline for the MASS African Design Centre Fellowship is June 14, 2026. Start your application early to ensure that you have enough time to complete all the requirements and submit your application before the deadline.
How to Apply for Model of Architecture Serving Society (MASS) African Design Centre Fellowship 2026 for African architects and designers (12 Months Residency in Rwanda, Kigali)
To apply for the MASS African Design Centre Fellowship, follow these steps: review the eligibility criteria and application requirements, prepare your portfolio and personal statement, and submit your application through the online portal. Make sure to provide all the required information, including your contact details, professional background, and personal statement. Once you have submitted your application, you will receive a confirmation email with further instructions.
Apply directly here: Click here to apply
Final Thoughts
The MASS African Design Centre Fellowship is a unique opportunity for African architects and designers to make a meaningful impact in their communities, and we encourage all eligible candidates to apply. By participating in this fellowship, you will gain valuable experience, develop essential skills, and contribute to the development of your community. Do not miss this chance to shape the future of your community – apply now for the MASS African Design Centre Fellowship and take the first step towards a brighter future.
