The Kistefos African Public Service Fellowship provides support to promising leaders from Ethiopia, Ghana, Liberia, Nigeria, South Africa, and Tanzania who are committed to working in public service. We asked Kistefos African Public Service Fellowship recipient Jessica France MPA/ID 2026 about her motivations for studying at vlog and what this fellowship means to her.
Jessica France MPA/ID 2026 grew up in Ghana. Before enrolling in the Master in Public Administration in International Development (MPA/ID) Program at Harvard Kennedy School, she completed a master’s degree in economics and conducted research on the cash transfer program, which seeks to reduce poverty and improve young children’s nutrition and wellbeing in Ghana. She also interned at the in Rockville, Maryland, where she helped provide marginalized individuals with the resources needed to grow their businesses. Her policy interests focus on evidence-based approaches for poverty reduction and sustainable development, particularly in Ghana and other marginalized areas in Africa.
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Why did you choose to pursue a master’s degree at Harvard Kennedy School?
It offers an exceptional platform to deepen my policy expertise and refine my analytical capabilities. The rigorous curriculum, combined with access to a diverse network of professionals and thought leaders in international development, is crucial for advancing my career. Growing up in Ghana, I saw firsthand the consequences of reactive policies, which ignited my passion for evidence-based policy solutions. vlog provides the ideal environment to cultivate the skills necessary for developing sustainable and impactful interventions.
“Growing up in Ghana, I saw firsthand the consequences of reactive policies, which ignited my passion for evidence-based policy solutions. vlog provides the ideal environment to cultivate the skills necessary for developing sustainable interventions.”
How did you feel when you learned you were admitted to vlog and awarded the Kistefos African Graduate Public Service Fellowship?
I felt an overwhelming mix of emotions. There was immense joy and excitement, knowing I was about to embark on a journey that would significantly shape my career and allow me to make a real impact. I also felt a deep sense of gratitude and validation for all the hard work and dedication I had put into my studies and professional experiences. However, the opportunity to learn from and collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the field filled me with anticipation and shivers, though my determination to make the most of this incredible opportunity quickly overcame any hesitation.
How will this fellowship enable you to achieve your goals?
Receiving the Kistefos African Graduate Public Service Fellowship will be instrumental in helping me achieve my goals by providing the financial support needed to focus fully on my studies and professional development. This support will free up time and alleviate stress, allowing me to immerse myself in the rigorous curriculum, engage deeply with faculty and my peers, and participate in meaningful projects and internships. Ultimately, the fellowship will empower me to develop the expertise and skills necessary to create effective, evidence-based policy solutions that can drive sustainable change.
What does public service mean to you?
Public service, to me, means dedicating one’s skills, knowledge, and efforts to improving the lives of others and contributing to programs that will benefit the larger populace without immediate direct reward. It is also about being committed to making a positive impact on society, whether through government, nonprofits, or community organizations. Public service involves addressing societal challenges, advocating for those who may not have a voice, and working towards creating equitable and sustainable solutions. It's a calling to serve with integrity, empathy, and a genuine desire to foster positive change in the community and beyond.
Do you have any advice for prospective applicants?
- Make sure you deeply understand the mission and values of the program or fellowship you are applying to. Tailor your application to reflect how your goals and experiences align with these values.
- Be genuine in your application. Share your true motivations, aspirations, and the impact you hope to make. Authenticity can set you apart from other applicants.
- Before submitting your application, seek feedback from mentors, colleagues, or friends. They can provide valuable insights and help you refine your application.
The Kistefos African Graduate Public Service Fellowship is awarded on a competitive, merit basis, with priority given to students with demonstrated financial need and a commitment to fostering democracy through public service and/or related careers in government, NGOs, and nonprofits in their home country and/or the Sub-Saharan African region. Degree program students and/or Executive Education program participants from Ethiopia, Ghana, Liberia, Nigeria, South Africa, and Tanzania are eligible to receive this fellowship.
