Dalai Lama Fellows
Dalai
Overview
The Dalai Lama Fellows (DLF) Program (2027 Cohort) (hosted via the Contemplative Sciences Center at the University of Virginia at is a global 1-year leadership program for emerging changemakers.
Rather than functioning as a direct venture fund, DLF operates as a contemplative leadership incubator. It blends self-awareness, mindfulness, and compassion training (Head, Heart, and Hands framework) with personalized 1-on-1 coaching to support founders leading grassroots social change initiatives.
Fellowship Package & Value CreationDirect Project Funding: $0 USD direct cash grants. (The fellowship invests entirely in the leader's human capital, training, and global network rather than providing direct project capital).
Equity Terms: 0% Equity / 100% Non-Dilutive (Free to participate; non-sectarian and non-partisan).
Fully Funded Leadership Assembly: All expenses paid to attend the mandatory 5-day Contemplative Leadership Assembly.
1-Year Support Architecture:
Monthly 1-on-1 executive coaching tailored to personal development and project execution.
Custom curriculum covering contemplative practices, cross-cultural communication, and complex systems thinking.
Lifetime membership in the LifeLong Fellows Network.
To qualify for the 2027 cohort, applicants must meet all parameters:
Age Requirement: Must be between 20 and 36 years old as of April 1, 2027.
Project Status: Must be actively leading or have a concrete, actionable plan to launch a social change project addressing local community issues (e.g., health, climate, education, human rights, or economic equity). Applicants must have at least 6 months of experience working with their target community.
Founder Role: Founders and non-founders are both eligible, provided the applicant holds a primary leadership role with decision-making authority over project outcomes.
Time Commitment: Must commit approximately 12 hours per month for fellowship calls, reading reflections, and coaching sessions (excluding project delivery time).
Language: Spoken and written English fluency.
