Van Leer Fellowship

Discover how the early years can unlock solutions to global challenges, strengthen human connection, and forge a way forward for all

In a world where leaders must tackle complex challenges—from health and education to climate and equity—finding a collective path forward can be daunting. The Van Leer Fellowship offers a new lens: seeing the world through the eyes of babies, toddlers, parents and caregivers.

We believe that the wellbeing of societies is reflected in the everyday experiences of young children and those who care for them. When they have a good start, communities flourish. We also know that breakthrough solutions emerge when diverse voices and disciplines intersect.

By bringing together exceptional leaders from diverse fields, the Van Leer Fellowship aims to spark new ways of thinking and leading —placing early childhood at the heart of solutions to our most pressing challenges.

Our cohort of accomplished leaders spans disciplines, industries, and corners of the world, united by a drive to lead differently. They are intrigued by the idea that focusing on babies and caregivers can build trust and unlock solutions to global challenges. Committed to social impact, they embrace diverse perspectives as a catalyst for change.

Fellows are selected through an invitation-only application process based on nominations. We choose individuals with a proven track record of excellence who align with our values of fairness, creativity, and service leadership. They come from a wide range of sectors, including government, business, academia, non-profit, civil society, arts, culture, and media, and represent diverse fields such as health and well-being, sustainability, the care economy, artificial intelligence, real estate, and neuroscience.

Two inspiring thinkers and experts from leading fellowship programmes who have helped us craft a fellowship that is uniquely ours and aligned to our mission.

Ralph was born on the Cape Flats, a working-class area of Cape Town, and was educated by a diverse group of teachers. With experience serving on the boards of both developmental NGOs—spanning the arts, housing, and finance—and businesses, both listed and private, he brings a deep understanding of complex systems and governance.

For decades, Ralph has been dedicated to building a network of influential individuals across business, government, and civil society in Africa, working to facilitate both practical and policy interventions. Their work includes writing and speaking for targeted audiences, fostering meaningful dialogue on critical issues.

An avid cook, he believes that some of the most impactful connections they have fostered were forged over famously extended lunches in their garden, where conversation, collaboration, and community come together.

Evie is the CEO of Te Wānanga o Aotearoa, one of New Zealand’s largest indigenous higher education institutions, playing a key role in reclaiming indigenous ways of being and doing, and expanding access to higher education.

Previously, Evie was the Executive Director of the Atlantic Institute, based at Rhodes House, Oxford, and established in 2016 by Atlantic Philanthropies to build the life-long global community of Atlantic Fellows from the seven Atlantic Programs across the world. Evie supported a global network of 1,000 Atlantic Fellows working toward equity and justice.

Evie has three adult children who are all involved in Māori development and indigenous transformation and six grandchildren.  She loves cooking and dabbling in gardening and has a gorgeous dog, Awa.