Applications are open for the CNN Academy Voices from the South Storytelling for Impact program as African women and other Global South storytellers can apply for expert training mentorship and a chance to be featured on CNN. Apply below:
When is the Application Deadline?
The application deadline is June 23, 2025.
Tell Me About The CNN Academy Training Program:
The Voices from the South: Storytelling for Impact program by CNN Academy is a media training initiative designed to empower emerging journalists and storytellers from the Global South. Supported by the Gates Foundation, the program equips early-career content creators with tools to tell urgent, human-centered health stories that can drive awareness and action. Participants receive training in storytelling, global health reporting, and mobile journalism, culminating in the production of a final story, with select pieces featured on CNN platforms.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Journalism
Type:
Training program
Who can Apply for the CNN Academy Training Program?
Also, applicants must:
- Reside and work in a country in the Global South (Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, Asia).
- Identify as a journalist, storyteller, or content creator in the early stages of their career.
- Have a portfolio of relevant work.
- Be fluent in spoken and written English
- Be committed to participating in the full program.
- Be willing and able to travel to Abu Dhabi in November 2025 for Phase Two.
How are Applicants Selected?
Participants will first submit an application verifying eligibility, background, and motivations for joining the program. Successful candidates will gain access to the virtual training and must complete all required online courses, earn badges, and submit a strong story pitch. To advance to Phase Two, they must also demonstrate storytelling potential and understanding of issues in the Global South. Final participants are selected based on performance, pitch quality, and commitment to the program.
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Required Documents
Applicants are to submit the following documents:
- Initial brief application (for Phase One)
- Samples of previous work (for Phase Two)
- Proof of origin from a Global South country
- A story pitch reflecting global issues relevant to the Global South
Which Countries Are Eligible?
Countries in the Global South, including those in Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Asia.
Where will the Award be Taken?
- Phase One: Online via CNN Academy Hub
- Phase Two: In-person training and simulation in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
How Many Awards?
Not specified
Related:
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- Dalla Lana School of Public Health Women in Global Health Leadership Fellowship 2025/26 at the University of Toronto
What is the Benefit of the CNN Academy Training Program?
The training benefits include:
- Online training courses in storytelling and global health reporting
- Hands-on mobile journalism training
- Participation in a high-pressure news simulation
- Mentorship from CNN experts
- Fully funded travel, accommodation, and participation in Phase Two in Abu Dhabi
- Final stories may be published on CNN’s linear and digital platforms, reaching a global audience
How Long Will the Award Last?
- Phase One: July – October 1, 2025 (virtual)
- Phase Two: November 2025 (in-person training in Abu Dhabi)
- Final Story Submission: By January 31, 2026
How to Apply:
Interested candidates must complete an online application for Phase One, demonstrating eligibility and motivation. If selected, participants will undergo virtual training and, upon completion, submit a story pitch. Top performers will be invited to Phase Two in Abu Dhabi. The final deliverable, a completed story, is due by January 31, 2026.
