Calling the Changemakers: Mamandla Fellowship 2025 Applications Now Open

At the heart of every thriving society is a mother—or someone who chooses to stand beside one. If you’re passionate about social justice, moved by the challenges mothers face, and eager to play your part in shifting narratives and systems in South Africa, then this call is for you.

The Mamandla Fellowship, powered by the Embrace Movement, is officially open for 2025 applications. This isn’t just another leadership programme—it’s a movement. A movement for mother-supporters who believe in the dignity, power, and potential of mothers to shape our world for the better.

Now in its sixth year, Mamandla continues to gather bold, compassionate women from across the country, nurturing their leadership, amplifying their voices, and equipping them to lead transformative change in their communities. Through a year-long journey of growth—complete with in-person sessions, online masterclasses, and safe, honest community conversations—fellows are given a rare gift: space to lead, space to heal, and space to dream in solidarity with others.

Julie Mentor, Movement Leader at Embrace, frames the mission beautifully:

“Mothers carry an immense responsibility in our society, often in isolation. The Mamandla Fellowship affirms that they should never walk alone—and that the weight they carry can be shared, supported, and transformed into power.”

I know this to be true. As a Mamandla 2024 Fellow, I (Sarah Banda) was embraced for more than just what I do—I was seen for who I am. Being part of this fellowship reminded me that supporting mothers is a collective responsibility, and that healing, advocacy, and impact are all interconnected. It reaffirmed that my voice and my work matter—and so does yours.

Fellow alumna and midwife Evashnee Naidoo, founder of Mama Earth Midwifery Care Centre, shares how her Mamandla journey helped her push forward in an often isolating field:

“Being a Mamandla fellow means being part of a sisterhood that shares your values, your dreams, and your frustrations. It’s a place where advocacy and self-care are not mutually exclusive.”

Who should apply?

If you are a woman aged 21 or older, based anywhere in South Africa, and ready to show up for mothers through action, advocacy, or community work—you belong here. While the fellowship is not financially compensated, Embrace ensures full support for participation, including travel, accommodation, and data for virtual sessions.

📌 Deadline: Tuesday, 1 July 2025, at 5PM.

📍Apply here:

https://www.embrace.org.za/mamandla

Let’s build a future where mothers are no longer sidelined but centred—where care is valued, and where every changemaker has a community behind her.

Follow Embrace for more

🌍 Website: www.embrace.org.za

📘 Facebook: @EmbraceZA

🐦 Twitter: @EmbraceZA

📸 Instagram: @embrace\_za