Luladay's journey as a 2023 MIF Fellow at ITC

Impactful Initiatives: Supporting Communities and Societies through Meaningful Projects

During my fellowship, I had the privilege to work on a variety of impactful projects across different regions, each designed to create significant positive change within communities. These projects were aligned with the mission of the International Trade Centre (ITC), focusing on empowering small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) that form the backbone of many economies.

One of the most rewarding experiences I had was managing a trade and food security project that spanned six African countries. This initiative was particularly meaningful as it aimed to uplift women entrepreneurs by leveraging the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The project’s main goal was to enhance the livelihoods of women in business, providing them with the tools and resources needed to thrive in competitive markets.

My role involved a combination of policy facilitation, capacity building, and strategic support. I facilitated crucial policy dialogues that brought together key stakeholders to discuss the challenges and opportunities within the trade and food security sectors. These dialogues aimed at shaping policies that directly benefited women-led SMEs, ensuring their voices were heard in policy-making processes.

In addition to policy work, I organised capacity-building training sessions that equipped women entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate complex trade environments. These trainings focused on critical areas such as identifying opportunities and challenges within specific value chain, which is vital for understanding and optimising every step of the production and distribution process. 

Furthermore, I supported the development of policy papers that provided in-depth analysis and recommendations for enhancing trade and food security in Africa. These papers were instrumental in advocating for policies that promote gender equality and empower women in business.

Through these efforts, I was able to make a tangible impact on the lives of African women business owners. By supporting them in leveraging the opportunities provided by the AfCFTA, we helped them boost their livelihoods, contributing to the broader goal of economic development and social progress in the region.

In summary, the projects I worked on during my fellowship were not just about meeting organisational objectives but were deeply rooted in creating meaningful and lasting impacts on the community. By focusing on empowering women entrepreneurs, we were able to contribute to a more inclusive and equitable economic landscape in Africa. This experience has reinforced my belief in the power of targeted initiatives to drive positive change and has inspired me to continue working on projects that make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.

Essential Advice for Aspiring Fellowship Applicants

For those considering applying for the 2025 Ibrahim Fellowship, the first and most crucial step is clearly defining what you hope to achieve from the experience. Fellowships are deeply personal journeys, and their value is often determined by what you make of them. Understanding your own goals will help you identify which programs are best suited to provide the experiences you seek.

Start by reflecting on what you want to gain—whether it’s specific skills, knowledge in a particular field, or professional connections. Once you have clarity on this, research which institutions are aligned with your aspirations. Each institution has its strengths, and choosing one that aligns with your goals will greatly enhance your fellowship experience.

Equally important is ensuring that your qualifications align with the requirements of the institutions you're applying to. Take the time to carefully review the qualifications and expectations listed in the fellowship criteria. Identify any gaps in your skills or experience and invest in strengthening these areas. This might involve taking additional courses, gaining relevant experience, or developing specific expertise. By doing so, you not only meet the eligibility criteria but also position yourself as a strong candidate.

Another valuable step is to connect with former fellows. These individuals can provide invaluable insights into the application process and the fellowship experience itself. When reaching out, be sure to ask targeted questions—this will help you gather the specific information you need to craft a compelling application. Focus on understanding how they tailored their applications to fit the terms of reference of the institution, as this is key to improving your chances of being selected.

Ultimately, your application should clearly demonstrate how you meet the fellowship’s requirements and how the experience will benefit both you and the institution. By carefully considering what you want from the fellowship, aligning your qualifications, and seeking advice from those who have gone before you, you can significantly increase your chances of success.