FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I need to have launched my own organization or venture to receive a Fellowship?
No. If you work for an existing or established institution, and leading an innovative project that contributes to change, you are also eligible to apply.
Can I be working on a project as part of my current job?
Yes. You need to be in a leadership role on the project, and it should contribute to economic, social, or political change. For example, if you are working for the United Nations and leading a project that aims to increase the participation of women in peacebuilding, that counts.
What if I don’t have an idea for a project, but want to be doing something that contributes to change?
If you don’t have a clear, concrete idea in motion then you are not quite ready for the Fellowship. We still want to help, though. Get in touch with us to find out how we can support you in finding an idea that’s meaningful to you.
What if I have a general idea for a project, but haven’t taken any actual steps yet?
Successful applicants will have already developed a prototype, pilot, or have other evidence that demonstrates the viability of their idea and its potential to create change. If you aren’t sure if your project qualifies, get in touch with us!
I am not well-known, but I do have a project that I think addresses conflict in my community. Am I still eligible?
YES! We have had a range of Fellows who have been newer to this work as well as long-time change makers. Fame does not reflect impact.
Does my project need to have a cross-border component in order to count as conflict transformation?
No.Your project can address a conflict occurring within a community or country. Even if your goal is to impact a cross-border conflict, there are countless economic, social, and political efforts that must take place within borders in order to transform conflict and realize peace.
Can I apply for funds to support my project, but not attend the in-person programs?
The Seeds of Peace GATHER Fellowship is a community-building process that is also introducing you to a vast array of professional skills and strategic connections. For that purpose and many others, your attendance at in-person programming is mandatory to be considered for this Fellowship.
Do I have to have be featured here on the Seeds of Peace website or related media about the Fellowship program?
No. GATHER aims to increase visibility for its Fellows with press coverage and exposure through various media outlets in order to grow support for their work. If you have concerns about this, however, for any reason, please do not hesitate to email us and discuss this further.
When will I know if I am selected?
By the end of January 2020.
KEY DEFINITIONS
Conflict Transformation
Conflict transformation is a long-term process, requiring participation from all levels of society, that addresses the structural and systemic roots of conflict. It uses a broad range of activities to address the dynamics of conflict to bring about long-term change.
Conflict transformation can take many different forms. In the context of the GATHER Fellowship, we are looking specifically for projects that work towards economic, social, or political change in ways that can transform conflict and end oppression.
Social Innovators and Social Innovation
We define social innovators as people developing creative solutions to societal challenges. This might mean creating a brand new approach to a problem, or adapting or reimagining an old strategy for a new purpose. It is possible to be a social innovator in any professional field, or through your own venture.
We believe social innovation offers a way of thinking and practical set of tools that both individuals and groups can use to create change. We are specifically interested in supporting people, projects, communities, and movements aimed at transforming conflict and ending oppression.