The Young Professional Fellowship (YPF) is a flagship international program organized by the Mentor Amiable Professional Society (MAPS). While the Maldives cohort you referenced took place in 2021, this global series continues to move through different host nations.
For the 2026 cycle, the primary focus is on the Young Professional Fellowship Australia 2026, which recently concluded its main application window. However, the MAPS fellowship remains a consistent opportunity for young leaders (ages 16–40) to engage in high-level diplomacy, entrepreneurship, and UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) implementation.
Fellowship Overview: 2026 Context
The fellowship series is designed to enhance leadership potential through “Activity-Based Learning.”
| Feature | Details |
| Organization | Mentor Amiable Professional Society (MAPS) |
| Primary 2026 Location | Melbourne, Australia (Feb 10–13, 2026) |
| Participant Age | 18 to 40 (General criteria) |
| Financial Status | Fully Funded, Partially Funded, and Self-Funded |
| IELTS/TOEFL | Not Required (Proficiency in English is essential) |
Financial Benefits and Tiers
The program traditionally offers three distinct funding categories. For the 2026 cycle in Australia, the breakdown was as follows:
- Fully Funded (20 Seats):
- Return economy air-ticket.
- 100% Scholarship on the fellowship fee.
- Full accommodation and meals.
- Customized merchandise and fellowship kit.
- Partially Funded (45–50 Seats):
- 100% Scholarship on the fellowship fee.
- Full accommodation and meals.
- Note: Participants must arrange their own airfare.
- Self-Funded / Free Access:
- 100% Scholarship on the fellowship fee and meals during the program.
- Note: Participants arrange their own airfare and accommodation.
Core Fellowship Topics
The curriculum is updated annually to reflect current global challenges. Typical themes include:
- Leadership with Purpose: Transitioning from individual goals to community impact.
- Global Diplomacy: Navigating international relations in a polarized world.
- Digital Transformation: The ethics of AI and social media in youth engagement.
- UNSDG-7: Innovative solutions for Affordable and Clean Energy.
- Anti-Patriarchal Models: Addressing gender-based inequality in professional settings.
Eligibility and Requirements
- Age Requirement: Generally between 16 and 40 years old.
- Academic Background: Open to students, entrepreneurs, social activists, and professionals from any field.
- Social Engagement: Applicants should demonstrate active involvement in social or educational initiatives.
- Passport: A valid passport is required for travel. (National IDs are often accepted for the initial application stage).
How to Apply: The Universal Roadmap
- Check Upcoming Cohorts: Visit the official Young Professional Fellowship website for the next host city (often announced for Bali, Canada, or Uzbekistan).
- Application Fee: A non-refundable processing fee (approx. $22–$30 USD) is required.
- Statement of Purpose: Write a compelling narrative focusing on your personal social impact and how you align with the UN SDGs.
- Wait for Results: Shortlisted candidates for funded spots are typically invited for a virtual interview.
Important Note for 2026
The Australia 2026 cohort application deadline was December 10, 2025. If you missed this, the next major cohort is expected to be announced soon. These fellowships move quickly, so it is best to have your Impact Statement and CV ready in advance.