The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), through its Anti-Racial Discrimination Section (ARDS), is now offering both financial and substantive support to alumni-led events and initiatives focused on combating racism and promoting the human rights of people of African descent.

If you’re planning an event or advocacy initiative aligned with these goals, here’s your chance to gain UN-backed assistance to bring your vision to life. Available supports:

1. Financial Assistance: OHCHR will directly manage and provide financial contributions ranging from USD 1,000 to 3,000, depending on project needs and available funds. This support can be used for:
   • Venue rental
   • Interpretation services
   • Communication and outreach materials (e.g. social media content, website, leaflets)
   • Printing costs
   • Travel expenses for invited speakers
2. Substantive Support: Customized guidance will be provided based on the needs of your initiative. This may include:
   • Strategic advice
   • Assistance with securing guest speakers
   • Publicity via UN social media platform

To qualify for support, your initiative must meet the following criteria:

• Organized by a non-governmental organization (NGO) where a former PAD Fellow is actively involved and serves as the main contact person.
• Must aim to address racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, or related forms of intolerance.
• A concept note must be submitted at least 12 weeks prior to the planned date of the event or initiative.
• The concept note must contain all required information. Your concept note should be concise yet comprehensive, and must cover the following details:
  • Title of the event/initiative
  • Background and rationale (why it matters, links to current national or international issues)
  • Objectives (what outcomes are expected)
  • Draft agenda
  • List of speakers (if applicable)
  • Date and venue
  • Target audience and expected number of participants
  • Estimated budget
  • Planned follow-up activities (if any)
  • Contingency plans for COVID-19 restrictions or lockdowns

Submit your complete concept note via email at least 12 weeks in advance to both:

• kellie-shandra.ognimba@un.org
• ohchr-africandescentfellowship@un.org

• Funding is awarded on a first come, first served basis.
• Priority is given to projects that meet all criteria and show strong geographic diversity.

Successful applicants will be contacted by OHCHR/ARDS with full details on the terms, conditions, and support modalities.

For more information and Application, Visit Official Webpage