The Hazel M. Johnson Fellowship, offered by Black Girl Environmentalist (BGE), is a national initiative designed to empower the next generation of environmental and climate leaders. This paid fellowship program, inspired by the legacy of environmental justice pioneer Hazel M. Johnson, supports early-career Black women and gender-expansive people, as well as other women and gender-expansive professionals in the United States who are passionate about pursuing careers in the environmental and climate sectors.
Created to address long-standing inequities—including lack of access, underrepresentation, and barriers to green job opportunities—this fellowship provides meaningful paid experience, mentorship, professional development, and a strong network to help emerging leaders thrive in the environmental field.
Background
The environmental and climate sectors have historically lacked diversity, particularly when it comes to Black women and gender-expansive individuals. Many early-career professionals face challenges such as unequal access to well-paying jobs, limited exposure to green career pathways, and a shortage of diverse workplaces. To help combat these disparities, Black Girl Environmentalist launched the Hazel M. Johnson Fellowship—an initiative rooted in equity, representation, and justice.
Through 10-week summer placements with partner organizations across the United States, fellows gain meaningful work experience and exposure to climate and environmental fields. The program equips participants with skills, networks, and career readiness tools needed to enter and remain in the sector, helping to shape a more diverse and inclusive environmental workforce.
Eligibility Criteria
The Hazel M. Johnson Fellowship has clearly defined eligibility requirements to ensure alignment with its mission. Applicants must meet the following criteria:
Who Can Apply
- Early-career women and gender-expansive professionals living in the United States or a U.S. territory.
- Self-identified Black women and gender-expansive people are strongly encouraged to apply.
- Other women and gender-expansive individuals are also eligible.
Definition of Early-Career
Applicants must fall into one of the following categories:
- Rising undergraduate juniors
- Rising undergraduate seniors
- Recent graduates, up to two years post-undergraduate
- First-year graduate students entering graduate school in Fall 2025
Field of Interest Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate an interest in the environmental and/or climate fields.
- No environmental science degree or formal training is required.
- The program welcomes individuals committed to justice, equity, and environmental or climate-focused work, regardless of academic background.
Residency and Work Eligibility
- Must reside in the United States or a U.S. territory.
- Must be eligible to work in the U.S. or a U.S. territory for the duration of the fellowship.
Availability
- Fellows must commit 32–40 hours per week for the full 10-week program.
- All applicants must be able to fully commit to the fellowship schedule.
Program Location
- Open to participants in all 50 states, with a focus on HUB cities.
Program Details
Program Structure
The Hazel M. Johnson Fellowship is a 10-week summer fellowship that includes:
- Placement with a partner organization in the environmental or climate sector
- Cohort-based programming
- Professional development sessions
- Mentorship from industry professionals
Compensation & Financial Support
The fellowship is fully paid and includes:
- $5,000 living wage stipend
- Minimum hourly wage of $18
- All-expenses-paid in-person retreat
- Weekly professional development workshops
- Guidance from a dedicated industry mentor
Professional Development
Fellows participate in:
- Weekly digital professional development training (3 hours/week)
- Cohort networking opportunities
- End-of-summer in-person retreat
- Access to the full Black Girl Environmentalist network and events
Schedule
- Fellowship work hours: 32–40 hours per week, depending on the partner organization
- Fellowship duration: 10 weeks, with rolling program dates
How to Apply
Applicants must submit their materials through the official application link.
Application Process
- Visit the official fellowship application portal (link below).
- Submit all required materials before the deadline.
- Attend information sessions (optional) to learn more about the program.
Important Application Notes
- Applications submitted outside the official portal will not be considered.
- Attendance at the information sessions is not mandatory but may help applicants understand the program.
Important Dates
- December 16, 2024: Application opens
- February 6, 2025: Fellowship Info Session (RSVP required)
- February 18, 2025: Fellowship Info Session (RSVP required)
- February 21, 2025: Application closes
- April 7, 2025: Fellow selection
- May 31 – August 18, 2025: Rolling fellowship program dates
- Mid-August 2025: In-person fellow retreat
Official Links
- Application Portal: Here
The Hazel M. Johnson Fellowship, hosted by Black Girl Environmentalist, offers a powerful opportunity for early-career women and gender-expansive professionals—especially Black women and gender-expansive individuals—to gain paid experience, mentorship, and a strong network in the environmental and climate sectors. With comprehensive support, professional skill-building, and equitable compensation, this fellowship advances environmental justice while preparing future leaders to create lasting impact.
This program is an excellent fit for individuals committed to environmental justice, equity, climate action, and career development in the green sector. Applicants are encouraged to review the eligibility requirements, prepare their materials early, and submit their applications before the deadline.
