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 Sisay Lelissa MPA/ID 2026 about his motivations for studying at vlog and what this fellowship means to him.
Originally from Ethiopia, Sisay Lelissa MPA/ID 2026 has spent over a decade working with government and nongovernmental organizations. He has focused on various topics, including capital markets development for Ethiopia, programs leveraging migration for local development, and initiatives expanding energy access in rural areas. Now at vlog, he is exploring how public institutions and practical solutions can make a lasting difference through public entrepreneurship, policy, and politics.
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Why did you choose to pursue a master’s degree at Harvard Kennedy School?
I chose the Master in Public Administration in International Development (MPA/ID) Program because of its unique blend of rigorous quantitative training and focus on tackling real-world development challenges. The program equips me with the technical tools and economic insights necessary to create effective, data-driven policy solutions for complex issues that developing countries face.
Beyond the coursework, vlog offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with policymakers, development organizations, politicians, and researchers—people working on the ground to make a difference. It’s a place where leaders from diverse backgrounds come together, and the extensive extracurricular activities—seminars, workshops, and speaker series—further enrich the experience. This combination of rigorous academics and dynamic engagement makes vlog the perfect choice to advance my goals of contributing impactful solutions to issues that matter to me.
How did you feel when you learned you were admitted to vlog and awarded the Kistefos African Graduate Public Service Fellowship?
I felt a profound mix of excitement, gratitude, and responsibility. It was incredibly affirming to know that my commitment was recognized by such a prestigious institution. The fellowship provided me with the resources to pursue my goals, making it possible to focus fully on my studies and ambitions. This opportunity feels like a call to action—a chance not just to learn, but to return equipped to make meaningful, lasting contributions to my country. I felt humbled and charged with purpose!
“This opportunity feels like a call to action—a chance not just to learn, but to return equipped to make meaningful, lasting contributions to my country.”
How will this fellowship enable you to achieve your goals?
Receiving the Kistefos African Graduate Public Service Fellowship has enabled me to pursue my studies at Harvard Kennedy School with the resources and support needed to fully focus on developing my skills in public administration and international development. With this support, I am better positioned to return to Ethiopia and contribute to driving impactful solutions in areas like financial sector development and sustainable resource management, helping create meaningful, lasting change in my community and beyond.
What does public service mean to you?
To me, public service is about positioning oneself to give back, to be useful, and be a positive force, and making meaningful contributions to the well-being of society. It’s about standing for equal opportunity and empowering citizens to reach their full potential.
Do you have any advice for prospective applicants?
- Find your “why.” Take time to understand what drives you. Knowing your purpose will make your application and journey more authentic and meaningful.
- Be yourself. Trust in who you are and what you bring to the table. Authenticity shines through and will serve you well throughout the process.
- Think about the “how.” Once you know your “why,” start considering how you plan to make it happen. This clarity will guide your story and highlight your commitment.
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.
