WHAT IS THE ELLA FELLOWSHIP?

The ELLA Fellowship — named for social activist Ella Baker — stands for Engage, Learn, Lead and Act. It’s a year-long program offering in-depth project development experience as Fellows bring to life a meaningful, ambitious social justice project in their community.

THE GOALS OF THE FELLOWSHIP ARE TO:

  • Enhance fellows’ resourcefulness, creativity, and confidence as leaders in their community

  • Deepen their project management and presentation skills

  • Expand their portfolio as a gateway to future leadership opportunities

WHO SHOULD APPLY?

Young women and gender-expansive youth ages 18 - 22, who are self-motivated, passionate, and committed individuals who want to make a change in their community. Applicants should also have the ability to commit to 72 hours (monthly retreats & individual time combined) during this 8-month period.

There are no academic or skill criteria for admission into our programs.

HOW DO YOU APPLY?

The application cycle for the ELLA Fellowship is now OPEN.

IN ORDER TO APPLY YOU MUST:

  1. Review this application packet in full 

  2. Review the “Tips for Applicants” (see last page of this packet)

  3. Talk to community members about your project idea and identify potential community partners to support you through the eight month fellowship

  4. Draft your proposal.

  5. Complete and submit the application by the priority deadline of  Monday, September 15th at 11:59pm.

  6. Applications will continue to be accepted on a rolling basis until Monday, September 22nd, 11:59pm.

Attend the Group Interview on 10/11.

If you have any questions or want to learn more, we’re happy to talk. Please reach out to Charlie Ambrose at charlie@sadienash.org.

MORE INFORMATION

  • The fellowship runs from October to May

  • They meet for monthly retreats to participate in skill training and receive support from peers and SNLP staff. Retreats are generally held in person, alternating between locations in NYC and Newark.

  • Between retreats, fellows have regular check-in calls with their ELLA facilitators to track progress

  • Fellows receive an $1,200 stipend to bring their project to life

What Do Nashers Say About It?

“Sadie Nash taught me to preserve. The program has a way of pushing you beyond what you’re comfortable with. My ELLA project hit a lot of bumps and, at first, I didn’t think I’d be able to see it through. But I learned how to strategize and follow up with people. If you want things to happen, you have to be proactive. My advice to other young women is to be open to change. If you want to do big things, don’t be afraid to be uncomfortable. Those are the moments when you grow.”

— ELLA Fellow