Dalai Lama Fellows Program 2027 for Emerging Changemakers
Overview
The Dalai Lama Fellows Program 2027 is a one-year fellowship for emerging changemakers who want to develop leadership practices rooted in wisdom and compassion. The interdisciplinary and contemplative programme offers a curriculum, coaching, group learning and other support to help Fellows apply what they learn to their work in the world.
During the year, each Fellow carries out an original field project addressing a local challenge. With the programme's support, Fellows develop self-awareness, mindfulness, emotional intelligence, listening and communication, systems-thinking and more, and learn a range of contemplative practices that foster a deeper connection to self, others and ecosystems. The programme links local work with a global network, and after graduating Fellows join the community of LifeLong Fellows.
For most of the fellowship, Fellows take part remotely, working on their compassion-in-action projects while following the online leadership curriculum and receiving virtual coaching and mentorship.
Who can apply
Candidates must be aged 20 to 36 as of April 1, 2027, and fluent in written and spoken English. They need a current social change project, or well-articulated plans for one, and must sustain it throughout the fellowship year. Preference goes to applicants with ongoing projects, though each year some Fellows are chosen who have a concrete vision and plans to launch, provided they have the expertise, resources and community connections. Candidates should have in-depth knowledge of the community and issue, preferably with at least one year of prior experience working with the community, and an interest in contemplative practices.
Requirements
Fellows must commit to all parts of the programme, including the online learning platform, one-on-one coaching calls and group learning calls. Full participation is estimated at about 12 hours per month, not counting project work. Fellows must also attend the virtual Contemplative Leadership Assembly in May 2027.
How to apply
The application has five parts: applicant background and overview, short essay questions, a video submission, a resume or CV, and a letter of recommendation.
Key dates
The application deadline is November 11, 2026.