Gen Z is reshaping the world

They pioneered the climate crisis movement, are radically reimagining the role of business in society, and continue to demand better from world leaders. However, as the gap in access to opportunities grows, many young people find themselves without the adequate resources and networks to participate in the movements that could change their communities. Those most vulnerable to the effects of the climate crisis, racism, or gun safety are often furthest away from the platforms needed to drive real impact.

NationSwell aims to equip young leaders with the resources, tools, and network they need to translate their passion into effective community-focused, intersectional solutions. Through an equitable approach, the NationSwell Fellows program empowers young people on the margins to stand at the center of driving change for their communities. Join us in supporting  a changemaker on the frontlines of our future.

The Ripple Effect: Our theory of change
We believe in the ripple effect that one driven leader can have on catalyzing cultural, social and environmental shifts that will shape our future. By empowering individuals driving impact in their communities and nurturing a community of intersectional leaders, we can create lasting systemic change.

Our impact year one

We measure our success of both individual impact and the community ripple effect — tracking initiatives and impact their skills & support have led to.

Building skills

Fellows reported a growth in their ability to present their ideas to larger audiences, develop a winning elevator pitch, access key networks, and find the help they need through mentorship. 

Growing confidence 

The program equips young leaders with the confidence to show up authentically in the social impact world. Through the program, Fellows report feeling more confident in their abilities to drive change. 

Change in attitudes 

Over the course of the program more Fellows reported that they believed businesses can be a partner in progress for making impact for good in the world than before they joined the program.

Enabling impact

The weight of NationSwell’s research, strategy and thought-leadership behind the Fellow’s impact incubator projects has translated into strong initiatives to create on-the-ground impact.

From our Fellows

“I appreciate the intentionality of cultivating a group with different types of people who work well together but have hands and feet in different sectors. I think that’s really important as we are thinking about intersectionality across our work. A lot of fellowships are focused on one area so that feels unique to this program.”
Uma Agrawal
NationSwell Fellow
“The fellowship for me has been such an exciting and grounding experience. It’s one the few spaces where I feel truly cared for and appreciated especially as a Queer Black woman and young professional. I am really grateful for the valuable connections and resources that have strengthened my network and skills.”
Thea Gay
NationSwell Fellow
“I feel like I’ve grown a lot in this last six months and it’s directly related to this fellowship. It’s made me feel ready to level up!”
Sarah Miller
NationSwell Fellow
“I love the fellowship – I am excited about my mentor and the cohort. Connecting with other fellows and practicing pitching has been helpful in defining my personal brand.”
Sophia Kianni
NationSwell Fellow
“The biggest benefit to the NationSwell Fellowship has been the network and momentum. From the network, I’ve felt inspired to pursue my goals and keep building BOAT with the guidance of mentors.”
Saadhvi Mamidi
NationSwell Fellow
“I’ve really enjoyed my time with NationSwell so far. The staff has been really supportive – always eager to brainstorm, hop on a call, and provide resources. I’ve had some helpful conversations so far about professional growth and my project incubator, which is directly impactful. I also find it useful to be held accountable to those smaller IDP goals.”
Safiyah Zaidi
NationSwell Fellow
“I think the fellowship is aiding me and giving me permission to work on a project that I wouldn’t have pursued without this support.”
Claire Neel
NationSwell Fellow

NationSwell Fellows 2.0

Through the program, NationSwell aims to provide young, enthusiastic leaders who have demonstrated a passion for change with a platform to learn, grow, and build connections.

    • •  Program Stipend without any reporting requirements
    • •  Access to industry leaders and experts for connections and mentorship 
    • •  Community of practice building with cohort of like-minded peers and alumni 
    • •  Dedicated  1:1 time with NationSwell team for personal and professional development 
    • •  Chance to attend and potentially be featured at NationSwell Summit
    • •  Opportunity to learn and put skills into practice

  • •  Knowledge building workshops and events tailored to their needs

Support the next generation of impact leaders

NationSwell Fellows is a mutual value exchange opportunity. By supporting the Fellows program (individual Fellows and the wider Futures platform), your business is providing a platform that provides transformational support to young impact leaders.

Your Business

Gains insights into how change is taking place among the youngest generation of talent entering the workforce.

Provides a chance to drive both short term impact for the Fellows and long term impact by fueling the ripple effect of change in their communities.

Benefits from the chance to both offer mentoring opportunities to your staff.

Receives guidance and wisdom from the young leaders on how to stay relevant and connect authentically with new generations.

Noteworthy Resources
FELLOWS

Where Young Leaders Level Up

Meet all seven young leaders who were chosen as Fellows in the first year of the NationSwell Fellows program. These young leaders stood out with their immense passion for their environmental and social issue areas of focus, demonstration of leadership in the field, and focus on the importance of intersectionality.
ABOUT

About Fellows

Learn more from last year’s press release about the search for our inaugural class of Fellows.
ZINE

From Me to You to Us

This zine is a collection of dreams, stories, and shared knowledge meant to foster hope + creativity from NationSwell Fellow, Thea Gay.
STORIES

5 Minutes With the Fellows

In this editorial series, NationSwell profiles the incredible and inspiring recipients of this fellowship. Dive deeper into the perspectives of Thea Gay, Sarah Miller, and Safiyah Zaidi in their featured articles.
Let’s transform the future together
Contact your Account Lead to learn more