Frequently Asked Questions

How does The Witness Foundation work?

The Witness Foundation operates a signature 2-Year Fellowship program for Black Christians to navigate the modern Civil Rights Movement of our time. We are devoted to visionaries who refuse to choose between their faith and their culture.

How can you support this work?
We’re so glad you asked.

Tell me more about The Witness Foundation (TWF) Fellowship?

The Witness Foundation selects a cohort of 5 fellows* who will receive $50,000 annually for each of the two years of the fellowship. In addition to funding, fellows receive training in leadership and a variety of professional skills. Fellows are paired with a mentor in a related field or with relevant experience who can aid in their personal, professional, and spiritual development. The goal is to financially support and build capacity for the next generation of Black Christian leaders in the racial justice movement. Programming includes the following:

• Award of $50,000 annually for two years to advance the work of the fellow and their respective organization 

• Individualized mentorship and assigned executive coaching to guide personal and professional development and help fellows get the most out of the program.

• Knowledge and skill-building trainings focused on spiritual development, professional leadership, racial justice, community engagement and networking, 

• In-person and virtual gatherings a series of other engaged learning opportunities facilitated by TWF and other partners. Travel expenses, lodging, and meals connected to these events and other meetings are covered by the program.

*After the inaugural cohort of 5 fellows for 2021-2023, TWF will expand to include additional fellows for each cohort.

What are TWF Fellow requirements? 

We’re looking to recruit a diverse class of fellows who are:

• Ethnically identify as Black or African American and spiritually identify as Christian

• Passionate about improving the spiritual, economic and racially just outcomes for other Black Christians and other members of their respective communities.

• Experienced or interested in fields of racial equity, education, health, food security, workforce development and particular fields that advance the well-being of Black communities.

• Able to make time through career and family obligations for personal and professional growth. 

• Intentional about deepening their understanding of racial equity from a perspective of faith and justice to create transformational change in communities.

• Have basic knowledge of and access to a computer with Office systems, email and Internet.

• At this time, we are only accepting U.S. citizens into TWF Fellowship.

What is the time committment of TWF Fellowship?

TWF Fellowship will run from March 2021 to March 2023. Specific time commitments will tentatively include:

Please note: Due to the current restrictions of COVID-19, adjustments will be made for this inaugural cohort to operate remotely.

• Participating in 12 virtual gatherings, a week-long orientation and two-day event to present on final projects and conclude the fellowship.

• Devoting 7 to 10 hours each month to training, cohort meetings, and/or individual work with a mentor or executive coach.

• Completing a self-directed, individual capstone project, that aligns with or highlights elements of the overall fellowship project, which will be presented during the second year of the fellowship.  

• Contributing to a spiritually thriving, supportive, collaborative fellowship community throughout the program.

• Documenting and communicating about your fellowship experience quarterly to extend the learning and impact with TWF and BCC audiences.

What do I need to apply to TWF Fellowship?

• Applicants should have approval from his or her organization or place of employment if applicable. Employment is not required to apply or to be a TWF Fellow. 

• TWF Fellowship Application requires the names, organization, email and phone number of two professional references. 

• There is no minimum education requirement or credentials needed to apply. 

• There is no application fee.

Can I apply and complete TWF Fellowship if I’m enrolled in a graduate or other educational program?

Yes, but we recommend that TWF Fellows ensure they have enough time to balance personal obligations in addition to TWF Fellowship projects and virtual gatherings. 

What is the timeline and selection process for TWF Fellows?

• Applicants must complete and submit the digital application on the TWF website by the deadline, January 5, 2021. Application will open October 31, 2020.

• Candidates who meet minimum requirements will be screened by TWF personnel via phone, then interviewed by the director and executive panel. Finalists will have their references called before final board approval and selection. 

• Finalists will be selected and notified tentatively between the end of February and early March 2021.

Can a married couple apply together or as a “team” for the TWF Fellowship?

No, this program is specifically designed for individual participation only.

Is TWF Fellowship non-partisan?

Yes. The Witness Inc. and all encompassed organizations including The Witness Foundation and fellowship program are non-partisan and non-political. We look forward to working with fellows who represent diverse perspectives and unite in advancing the work of Black Christians and their communities. 

Can I apply to receive a grant from TWF?

No. TWF is not awarding organizational grants at this time (but stay tuned). TWF is only operating a fellowship program for individuals who will receive funding for specified projects.

How can I apply to be a mentor or coach for TWF Fellows?

If you are interested in being a mentor or executive coach for TWF Fellows, please complete this form.