Open Society Fellowship Seeks to Elevate New Voices on Global Challenges
The Open Society Fellowship is now accepting applications for its 2025 program. This year, the fellowship will support 28 individuals in fostering open society principles through their work. The program specifically aims to amplify newcomers to stimulate insightful discussions on critical global issues like human rights, social justice, climate change, and inequality.
Candidates are urged to submit proposals that offer fresh perspectives on pressing matters facing the world today.
Applications will be accepted exclusively from inhabitants of seven vibrant global cities: Beirut, Lebanon; Buenos Aires, Argentina; Colombo, Sri Lanka; Dar es-Salaam, Tanzania; Jakarta, Indonesia; Lagos, Nigeria; and Taipei, Taiwan. These cities were chosen for their active communities of intellectuals and cultural producers engaged in high-level debates on open-society concerns.
Applications are open to individuals from diverse fields including academia, journalism, documentary film, think tanks, playwriting, poetry, architecture, urban planning, fiction writing, visual arts, entrepreneurship in cultural fields, and various other fields.
The ideal candidate is a disruptor, a true original thinker who approaches segala kinds of problem-solving with bravery and creativity. Successful applicants will be deeply connected to their local environment, demonstrating expertise in their region, while also possessing a global vision.
Open Society fellows receive a living stipend of $100,000 for one year of full-time work on their project. Plus, they may apply for up to an additional $20,000 to cover project-related expenses. The fellowship duration is one year, with the option for a one-year extension.
Interested applicants must submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a detailed three-page project description, and a sample budget. Applications must be received no later than 5:00 PM New York time on December 16, 2024. Applicants will be notified about the status of their applications by February 28, 2025.
For more information on eligibility requirements and the application process, visit the official Open Society Fellowship webpage.
How does the Open Society Fellowship utilize its resources and platform to support and amplify the voices of emerging thought leaders?
## Open Society Fellowship Committed to Amplifying New Voices
**[Host]** Joining us today to discuss an exciting opportunity for forward-thinking individuals is Helen Smith, Director of the Open Society Fellowship. Helen, welcome to the program!
**[Helen Smith]** Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
**[Host]** The Open Society Fellowship is now accepting applications for its 2025 program. Can you tell our viewers more about this initiative and what makes it unique?
**[Helen Smith]** Absolutely. The Open Society Fellowship is dedicated to supporting individuals who are challenging conventional thinking and offering innovative solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges. We believe that fresh perspectives are essential to fostering a more just and equitable society. This year, we’re particularly eager to support 28 individuals whose work aligns with the core principles of open society – things like human rights, social justice, climate action, and tackling inequality [[1](https://www.opensocietyfoundations.org/grants/open-society-fellowship)].
**[Host]** What kind of candidates are you looking for?
**[Helen Smith]** We’re seeking individuals from diverse backgrounds and disciplines who possess a passion for driving positive change. We’re especially interested in those who are new to the field, emerging thought leaders who bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas.
**[Host]** This emphasis on “new voices” is really intriguing. Why is this so important for the Fellowship?
**[Helen Smith]** We believe that truly groundbreaking ideas often come from those who are not bound by traditional thinking. By amplifying these new voices, we hope to spark insightful discussions, challenge the status quo, and contribute to meaningful solutions for the global community.
**[Host]** What would you say to someone who is considering applying?
**[Helen Smith]** If you have a bold idea, a unique perspective, and a burning desire to make a real difference in the world, we encourage you to apply. This is a unique opportunity to gain access to resources, mentorship, and a global network of like-minded individuals.
**[Host]** Thank you so much for sharing this information, Helen. We wish the Open Society Fellowship all the best in finding its next cohort of extraordinary individuals.
**[Helen Smith]** Thank you.
