Applications Invited for Indo-Pacific Futures Fellowship

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About the Organization

The East-West Center promotes better relations and understanding among the people and nations of the United States, Asia, and the Pacific through cooperative study, research, and dialogue.

The East-West Center was established by the United States Congress in 1960 as a national educational institution to foster better relations and understanding among the peoples of the United States, Asia, and the Pacific islands through programs of cooperative study, training, and research.

The mission of Doris Duke Foundation is to build a more creative, equitable and sustainable future by investing in artists and the performing arts, environmental conservation, medical research, child well-being and greater mutual understanding among diverse communities.

About the Fellowship

Many of today’s biggest challenges arise from issues related to access to resources, environmental and economic instability, and gaps in effective governance. Addressing these requires leadership that is innovative, forward-thinking, and responsive to the needs of communities. Now in its second year, the Indo-Pacific Futures Fellowship from the East-West Center and the Doris Duke Foundation will examine the vital connections between food security, energy systems, and leadership for the greater good.

Fellows will explore how leadership can strengthen systems that balance economic growth, resource availability, and long-term sustainability. From personal food security to societal energy transitions, they will investigate strategies for providing reliable access to essential resources. Through storytelling, exploring perspectives, and immersive experiences, the program will foster meaningful conversations that unite different viewpoints and help shape a future where food and energy systems are both reliable and sustainable.

Participants will come from a range of backgrounds—spanning government, advocacy, communities, media and technology, arts, and entrepreneurship—bringing a variety of experiences and ideas. Through in-person sessions in Hawai‘i and Aotearoa (New Zealand), along Participants will come from a range of backgrounds—spanning government, advocacy, communities, media and technology, arts, business, entrepreneurship, including energy and food producers—bringing a variety of experiences and ideas. Through in-person sessions in Hawai‘i and Aotearoa (New Zealand), along with regular virtual meetings, they will engage with leading experts and collaborative activities designed to expand their knowledge, leadership capacities, and networks. The enduring skills and connections they gain will help them drive positive change in their communities and beyond.

2025-2026 Program Dates:

The Indo-Pacific Futures Fellowship will run from October 2025-May 2026 and will require participation in virtual and in-person sessions.

• Pre-Residency Virtual Sessions: October 13-26, 2025
• Honolulu, Hawai‘i: October 27-November 7, 2025
• Virtual Sessions: November 8, 2025-May 24, 2026
• Wellington, New Zealand: May 25-31, 2026

Eligibility

• 5 to 10 years of professional leadership experience in any aspect of food and energy systems, including advocacy work in these sectors. Experience may comprise but is not limited to: elected officials, government agency representatives, advocacy group leaders, topic experts, community and industry leaders, artists, activists, and social and business entrepreneurs.
• Past experiences or current work with a focus on the Indo-Pacific region.
• There is no country restriction to apply/participate in the IPFF.
• Applicants will be expected to have a fluent level of English. Applicants are encouraged to provide an English language test score (such as IELTS, TOEFL, TOEIC…) if available.
• A current passport with validity through the end of 2026.
• Able to fully commit to two weeks of travel in October and November 2025 and one week in May 2026, plus regular virtual connections in between and a capstone project to implement during and after the program.

Desirable Qualifications:

• A minimum of 3 years of studies in a higher education institution sanctioned by a degree representing a full-time program of study is preferred but not required.
• Dedicated to supporting initiatives that address the needs of communities affected by global challenges.
• Proven ability to work with people from different backgrounds and perspectives.
• Willingness to learn and try new techniques and approaches, and to face unfamiliar experiences with curiosity and openness to the process, as well as to be challenged and willing to push beyond their professional comfort zone with a commitment to their personal growth.
• Willing to engage fully in a place-based, action-oriented, creatively demanding program.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills to complete writing and public speaking assignments with high quality.

How to Apply

Apply

Applications will be accepted until April 18, 2025 at 11:00 PM Hawai‘i Standard Time. Reference letters will be accepted until end of day, April 27, 2025.

For more information please check the Link

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Tags Environment and Sustainability Governance Skill Development Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Leadership Others