Kampala – August 1 2025

As DefendDefenders celebrates 20 years of supporting and protecting human rights defenders (HRDs), AfricanDefenders has joined to launch an intergenerational initiative: “Roots of Resistance”, a mentorship programme for young African HRDs aged 18–30

The programme seeks to empower emerging defenders across the continent through lasting mentorship, focused skills development, and strengthening movement solidarity. Emphasis will be placed on pairing seasoned human rights actors with rising voices in a structured, reflective, and supportive environment

Eligibility and Timeline

• Applicants aged 18–30, working in human rights advocacy across Africa.

• Applications close on 10 August 2025

What the Programme Offers

• Structured intergenerational mentorship and movement-building orientation.

• Skill-building in areas such as digital safety, advocacy, strategic communication, and resilience.

• Access to a supportive network of mentors, creatives, and fellow defenders.

• Opportunity to co-design projects and advocacy initiatives with sustained mentorship support

Interested candidates should visit This link : https://defenddefenders.org/call-for-expression-of-interest-human-rights-defenders-mentorship-program/  and follow the application guidelines for the mentorship programme.

Early applications are encouraged as selection is competitive.