U.C. Berkeley LeadEx Fellow in USA (Fully Funded)

The Asia Foundation has announced an exciting LeadEx Fellowship 2026 opportunity in San Francisco, offering students and recent graduates from University of California, Berkeley a chance to work on global leadership and exchange programs.

This paid fellowship is part of the Foundation’s Leadership & Exchange (LeadEx) unit, which develops next-generation leaders and promotes cross-cultural collaboration across Asia and the Pacific.

About The Asia Foundation

With over 70 years of experience, The Asia Foundation operates in more than 20 countries, delivering programs focused on:

• Governance and public policy
• Economic development and workforce skills
• Peacebuilding and regional stability
• Environmental and resource management

Its LeadEx programs are designed to build leadership capacity and strengthen international networks across diverse sectors.

About the LeadEx Fellowship Role

The selected LeadEx Fellow will work closely with the San Francisco-based program team to support several flagship initiatives, including:

• LeadNext Fellows Program
• Asia Foundation Development Fellows
• Margaret F. Williams Fellowship in Asian Art
• William P. Fuller Fellowship in Peacebuilding
• Luce Scholars and other exchange programs

The role combines program coordination, event management, communications, and research support.

Key Responsibilities

The fellow will:

• Support selection, onboarding, visa processing, and travel for global fellows
• Assist in organizing virtual sessions and in-person summits (including San Francisco events)
• Coordinate logistics such as accommodation and program schedules
• Draft and edit program materials, reports, and communications
• Support social media, newsletters, and outreach campaigns
• Engage with alumni networks and document program impact
• Assist in application cycles and fellowship promotion for 2027 programs
• Help prepare financial and administrative documents

This is a highly dynamic role involving both operational and strategic exposure in international programs.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be current students or recent graduates of UC Berkeley
• Have experience in:
  • Program administration
  • Event planning
  • Communication and outreach
• Demonstrate strong writing, interpersonal, and organizational skills
• Be comfortable working in diverse, multicultural environments
• Be able to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively

Experience in international development, policy, or nonprofit work is an advantage.

Compensation and Duration

• Up to 25 hours per month
• Duration: 5 months
• Compensation: Up to $40 per hour

This makes it a highly competitive paid fellowship in the international development sector.

Application Process

Applicants must submit:

• Cover letter
• Resume or CV

Deadline: May 15, 2026 (or until filled)

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Why This Opportunity Matters

This fellowship offers a unique opportunity to work directly on global leadership programs, engaging with participants from across Asia and beyond.

Participants gain:

• Exposure to international development programs
• Experience in global fellowship management
• Networking with global leaders and policymakers
• Practical skills in program design, outreach, and impact evaluation

Final Insight

The LeadEx Fellowship at The Asia Foundation is an ideal opportunity for students interested in international development, leadership programs, and global policy work.

With strong mentorship, hands-on experience, and competitive pay, it serves as a valuable stepping stone toward careers in international organizations and nonprofit leadership