UP Leaders of Tomorrow Fellowship Applications Now Open

for 2026–2027  

 

Are you ready to make your voice heard and create change in your community? Applications are now open for the 2026–2027 UP Leaders of Tomorrow Fellowship, a paid leadership and civic engagement opportunity for young people across Bexar County.

The UP Leaders of Tomorrow Fellowship is designed for young people ages 16–24 who want to better understand how decisions are made and how to influence them. You do not need prior experience in leadership, policy, or advocacy. You just need curiosity, commitment, and a desire to make things better for yourself and your community.

What is the UP Leaders of Tomorrow Fellowship?

The UP Leaders of Tomorrow Fellowship is a nine-month, paid fellowship running from September 2026 through May 2027. Fellows will explore how systems such as education, local government, and public policy impact young people and communities while building the skills needed to advocate for change.

Through hands-on learning, mentorship, group discussions, and real-world experiences, fellows will:

  • Build confidence as civic leaders
    Learn how to speak up about issues that matter to them
    Understand how decisions are made  and how to influence them
    Connect with other young people passionate about making a difference

This program is especially intended for young people who have experienced barriers in education, access, or opportunity and want to help create solutions for their communities.

Fellowship Commitment

Fellows should expect to commit approximately 5–8 hours per month, including:

  • One virtual Tuesday meeting each month (1 hour)
    One in-person Saturday meeting each month (4 hours)
    Optional community events, civic meetings, and youth-led activities throughout the fellowship

Why Apply?

Training, Mentorship & Experiential Learning

Gain practical skills in leadership, civic engagement, advocacy, and policy, no prior experience required.

$2,500 Fellowship Stipend

All fellows will receive a $2,500 stipend to support participation in the program. 

Amplify Your Voice

Share your experiences and perspectives while helping shape conversations and decisions that impact young people and communities across Bexar County.

Continue Your Leadership Journey

Build relationships, strengthen your leadership skills, and gain experiences that can support your future educational, professional, and civic goals.

Who Should Apply?

We encourage applications from young people ages 16–24 who live, work, or attend school in Bexar County, especially those who:

  • Feel decisions are often made without youth voices at the table
    Care about issues impacting their schools or communities
    Want to better understand how change happens
    Have not always had access to leadership or civic opportunities

You do not need to have all the answers, just a willingness to learn, participate, and grow.

Important Dates

  • Application Deadline: July 31, 2026
    Interviews & Selection: August 10–19, 2026
    Fellows Announced: August 21, 2026
    Orientation & Kickoff Celebration: August 27, 2026
    Programming Timeline: September 2026 – May 2027

Apply Today!

This is more than a fellowship, it is an opportunity to grow as a leader, connect with peers, and help shape the future of Bexar County.

Apply Here: bit.ly/UPLeadersApp2026

Applications are due Friday, July 31, 2026 at 11:59 PM CT.

Questions?

For questions about the fellowship or application process, contact Andrea Ramirez, Youth Leadership Manager, at andrea@uppartnership.org.