Apply Now: Amnesty International South Africa Paid Fellowship 2026 (R16,000 Monthly Stipend)

Are you a recent law graduate passionate about human rights? Amnesty International South Africa is offering a fantastic opportunity for young professionals. They have opened applications for the 2026 Graduate Governance Fellowship. This is a fully paid role based in Johannesburg.

This is not just an ordinary internship. You will work directly with the Board of Directors and the Executive Director. Plus, you will earn a monthly stipend of R16,000 while gaining experience in the NGO and legal sectors. The deadline is very close, so act fast!

Fellowship Overview & Key Details

What Will You Do?

The selected fellow will play a serious role in the organization. You won't just be filing papers; you will be involved in high-level governance and policy work. Your main responsibilities will include:

• Board Support: You will assist the Board of Directors and prepare detailed minutes and reports for meetings.
• Legal Research: You will draft governance documents and research legal topics relevant to human rights.
• Policy Work: You will contribute to national and international policy discussions within Amnesty.
• Job Shadowing: A unique perk of this fellowship is the chance to job-shadow at partner law firms and public interest organizations.

Eligibility Criteria

Amnesty International is looking for a self-motivated individual who truly cares about activism. To apply, you must meet the following requirements:

• Education: You must have a law degree (LL.B. or equivalent).
• Languages: You need to be fluent in at least two South African languages.
• Skills: Strong writing skills are a must. You should be able to draft documents that need very little editing.
• Citizenship: While open to everyone, non-South African applicants must already have a valid work permit.

Benefits of the Fellowship

Aside from the meaningful work, here is why you should apply:

• Financial Support: You get a stipend of R16,000 every month.
• Flexibility: The role offers flexible working hours and significant remote work opportunities (working from home).
• Networking: You will connect with top legal minds and human rights activists in South Africa.

How to Apply

The application process is done via email. There is no online portal. Follow these steps strictly:

• Prepare Your Documents: You need a Motivational Letter, a concise CV (with 3 references), a sample of your original writing (legal/policy topic), and your Academic Transcript.
• Send Email: Submit your full application to za.hr@amnesty.org.za.
• Deadline: The closing date is 14 November 2025. Late applications will not be looked at.

Important Dates

If you are shortlisted, you will be notified by 13 December 2025. You must be ready to start work on 2 January 2026. If you do not hear back by mid-December, please consider your application unsuccessful.