Cohort 2026/27 Now Open

Build
Yourself.
Change
the World.

The Marifa Fellowship is a leadership and personal development programme for ambitious young people who want to make something of themselves – and something of the world around them.

Apply Now Download Brochure
Ambitious diverse young adults and Muslim students collaborating on their leadership roadmap
10

Months of Immersive

Experiential Growth

Exceptional
Community
World-Class
Mentorship
Real-World
Experiences
Lasting
Impact
Our Core Philosophy

Why Marifa Exists

We believe leadership is an active discipline, built through character, service, and the relentless willingness to grow. Too many talented young people enter the job market without the networks or mentorship crucial to unlock their true trajectory.

At Marifa, we don't believe leadership is a privilege of background. We exist to open doors and build a lifelong community.

What We Include
Our Deliverables

What You Can Expect

High-impact segments designed to provide exposure, practical skills, and lasting career access.

Inspiring Leaders Session

Inspiring Leaders

Exclusive conversations with exceptional leaders from around the world.

Practical Development Session

Practical Development

Build real-world skills through interactive masterclasses and challenges.

Global Experiences Capstone

Global Experiences

A capstone trip to an international business hub with real-world impact.

Powerful Network Connections

Powerful Network

Connect with ambitious peers and mentors that lift you higher.

Want to learn more?

For application criteria, programme timeline and more, download our brochure.

Download Brochure
Our Community

Marifa Life

See moments and testimonials directly from inside the fellowship cohort.

"They thought they were learning from me, but I was actually learning from them much more than they could imagine - because of their enthusiasm and because of their passion."

DV

David Vicary

Former President and CEO of INCEIF

"Marifa has genuinely been one of the most valuable experiences I've had, and it's something I'll never forget. The amount of commitment put into nurturing us does not go unnoticed."

MF

Marifa Fellow

Class of 2026

"The Marifa programme has been extremely invaluable. I have understood what I would like to pursue for my future career... I have felt very valued and nurtured by the leaders."

MF

Marifa Fellow

Class of 2026

Life inside the fellowship

Marifa Fellowship Session

Interactive Group Workshop

Marifa Mentorship

Leadership Fireside Dialogue

Marifa Masterclass

Mentoring & Career Strategies

Marifa Fellows together

Graduation and Achievement Ceremony

Got Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about The Marifa Fellowship.

1. General Information

What is the Marifa Fellowship?
The Marifa Fellowship is a 10-month leadership and personal development programme running between August 2026 and June 2027. It is designed for ambitious young people looking to build experiential wisdom through reflection, practical action, and mentorship.
What does "Marifa" mean?
Derived from Arabic, "ma'rifa" denotes experiential wisdom; specifically, deep understanding gained through reflection and lived experience.

2. Eligibility & Application

Who is eligible to apply for the fellowship?
The programme is open to current university students. Ideally, applicants should be based in the West of Scotland.
I am not a business or management student. Can I still apply?
Yes. The fellowship explicitly brings together university students from different disciplines and backgrounds. The programme intentionally selects a diverse cohort because real learning happens when individuals with different ways of thinking are in the same room.
Do I need a perfect resume to be accepted?
No. The fellowship is not looking for a polished CV. Instead, they are seeking individuals with leadership potential who are genuinely curious, willing to be challenged, ambitious and deeply committed to their personal growth.
Where can I submit my application?
You can apply for the 2026/27 cohort by scanning the QR code provided in the brochure or by visiting the application link directly at https://bit.ly/MarifaApp.

3. Costs & Financial Commitment

Is there a fee to participate in the Marifa Fellowship?
No, there are no programme fees to participate in the fellowship itself.
What costs are fellows expected to cover themselves?
While fellows do not pay for the programme fee, participants are responsible for covering their own:
  • Travel expenses to and from all monthly development sessions and networking events.
  • Travel expenses (such as flights or transit) to and from the destination for the Capstone Trip.
  • Accommodation costs during the Capstone Trip.
Do I need to arrange my own lodging for the Capstone Trip?
Yes. Participants are expected to plan and pay for their own accommodation for the duration of the Capstone Trip in June.
Will financial support be available for travel and accommodation?
We don't want travel or accommodation costs to prevent talented individuals from taking part in the Marifa Fellowship. Limited financial assistance may be available for participants who require support with travel and/or accommodation expenses. Requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis, taking into account individual circumstances and available funding. If this is something you may need, please let us know as part of your application.

4. Programme Journey

What is the duration and timeline of the programme?
The fellowship spans 10 months, starting with introductory engagements in August 2026 and concluding in June 2027.
Will the programme conflict with my university commitments?
No, the 10-month curriculum is designed to run in parallel to your university academic year.
What core components are included in the curriculum?
The curriculum features:
  • Opening Launch Day: Full-day immersion to establish cohort connections.
  • Monthly Development Sessions: Interactive, practical workshops challenging conventional ideas.
  • Leadership Firesides: Candid, unscripted discussions with senior executives.
  • Networking Experiences: Structured opportunities to build high-value professional relationships.
  • Capstone Trip: Hands-on presentation showcase in a global city.

5. Mentorship & Network

Who are some of the past speakers at the Leadership Firesides?
Past guest speakers include distinguished industry and public figures such as:
  • Iqbal Khan (CEO, Fajr Capital)
  • Tan Sri Azman Mokhtar (Former CEO of Khazanah Nasional Berhad)
  • Peter Gould (Renowned designer and entrepreneur)
  • Rt Hon Humza Yousaf (Former First Minister of Scotland)
What happens after the 10-month programme ends?
Graduation is not the end of the experience. Marifa is built to function as an enduring community. Upon completing the programme, fellows gain lifelong access to the Marifa alumni network, connecting them to ongoing professional mentorship, peer support, and future opportunities.

6. Outcomes & Capstone

What is the Capstone Trip and Final Challenge?
The fellowship concludes in June with a group trip to a major global destination (past destinations include London, Dubai, and Kuala Lumpur). During this trip, the cohort undergoes industry visits and must pitch solutions to real-world business and community problems directly in front of a panel of active CEOs and global leaders.
What tangible benefits will I gain by completing the fellowship?
By graduation, you will walk away with:
  • Enhanced self-confidence, personal resilience, and deep career clarity.
  • Practical skill sets in public speaking, personal branding, and financial literacy.
  • Firsthand learning insights from executive decision-makers.
  • A powerful, functional professional network and lifelong peer friendships.
Does the programme guarantee job placements or internships?
No, placements are not guaranteed. However, outstanding participants in past cohorts have successfully secured internships and full-time employment through the direct mentoring links and exclusive corporate events accessed during the programme. These opportunities are earned through active engagement.

2026/27 Cohort

Applications Now Open

Submit your interest and join our network.

Ready to start your journey?

Apply Now

" Ma'rifa: Experiential wisdom. Derived from Arabic, "ma'rifa" denotes deep understanding gained through reflection and lived experience. "