Frequently asked questions

The fellowships primarily take place in Brussels, where fellows are placed at NGOs or think tanks. Some travel may be involved depending on the project requirements. A limited number of placements could take place in a hybrid remote/on location structure. A small number of placements are in different EU capitals like Berlin or Geneva. During September, training will take place in The Netherlands (first week September) and Brussels (last week September), where you need to be present for a full week on site.

The fellowship program carefully matches fellows with host organisations to ensure alignment of goals and skills. Fellows are integrated into their teams with planned orientations and are supported throughout their placement to maximize both their impact and their learning experience.

We have one application form for both programs where you can indicate your preferences. Please note that we will consider your preference, but we may place you in a different program if we believe it to be a better fit. While you are welcome to indicate interest in only one program, please be aware that keeping an open mind to both may increase your chances of moving forward in the selection process.

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Yes you can. At SMA we believe that the Tobacco Industry is the enemy, not the individual smoker who has been lured into an addiction. We will support you with a cessation program throughout the program.

Most host-organisations require you to be present at least 2 - 3 days in their office in Brussels. It is also good to be there to network and lobby. So, either you do relocate, or you spend every week two of three days and nights in Brussels. There is a budget to reimburse your costs for travel and accomodation, up to 1000 euro per month.

No, there is no job guarantee after the fellowship. Your fellowship will have equipped you with many desired skills and many contacts to organisations and funders. You must find your own place after the fellowship.

Some fellows can stay at their host organisation after the fellowship, but there is no guarantee for that. Other fellows can apply to jobs in NGO's, thinktank or lobby organisations. Some fellows start their own NGO after the fellowship.

Yes, for both fellowships we do expect that you do around 20 hours of online learning.