CNN Academy Training Program 2025: A Chance for Emerging Storytellers from the Global South
The CNN Academy Training Program 2025 offers a fantastic opportunity for aspiring journalists and storytellers from developing countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean. This fully funded program is designed to help participants build the skills and knowledge needed to create powerful stories that can spark change.
Taking place in Abu Dhabi, the program blends practical training with expert guidance, focusing on mobile journalism and storytelling techniques that truly engage audiences.
Program Overview
- Host: CNN Academy, Abu Dhabi
- Type: Training / Fellowship
- Who Can Apply: Early-career journalists and content creators living in developing countries across the Global South
- Benefits: Full sponsorship covering travel and accommodation, professional training, certification, and valuable networking opportunities
- Language: No IELTS required
- Application Deadline: June 23, 2025
You can also sign up for WhatsApp alerts to stay updated on scholarships and other opportunities.
About the Program
CNN Academy aims to empower storytellers from the Global South by offering world-class training and access to top industry resources. Participants will learn how to craft meaningful, context-rich stories on important topics like vaccine equity, humanitarian crises, and the lives of frontline workers.
The program unfolds in two parts:
Program Structure
Phase One: Virtual Training (July – October 1, 2025)
This first phase happens online via the CNN Academy Hub. Participants take part in various courses designed to sharpen their storytelling skills and deepen their understanding of global issues, especially those impacting their regions.
Phase Two: In-Person Training and Simulation (November 2025, Abu Dhabi)
Selected candidates will travel to Abu Dhabi for hands-on training led by CNN experts. The program wraps up with a simulation exercise focused on global health reporting — a real newsroom experience where participants apply their skills to produce impactful stories.
Who Should Apply?
To qualify for this program, you need to:
- Live and work in a developing country in Africa, Asia, Latin America, or the Caribbean
- Be an early-career journalist, storyteller, or content creator
- Have a portfolio that shows relevant work
- Be fluent in spoken and written English
- Commit to attending both the virtual and in-person sessions fully
- Be able to travel to Abu Dhabi in November 2025
What’s in It for You?
- Fully covered travel and accommodation during the in-person training
- Training from experienced CNN professionals
- A certificate upon completing the program
- Opportunities to connect with peers and industry leaders
- A chance to have your work featured on CNN’s platforms
How to Apply
Start by submitting a short application form, where you’ll share your background, eligibility, and why you want to join the program. If accepted, you’ll get access to the virtual training.
After completing the online courses, you may be invited to apply for the in-person training. This stage requires you to submit:
- Samples of your previous work
- Proof that you live in a qualifying Global South country
- A story idea focused on a relevant global issue in your region
Final Project
Once the in-person simulation is over, you’ll return home to produce a final story using what you’ve learned. This story must be submitted by January 31, 2026. The best stories might be featured on CNN’s digital and broadcast platforms.
Important Dates to Remember
- Application Deadline: June 23, 2025
- Virtual Training: July – October 1, 2025
- In-Person Training: November 2025
- Final Story Submission: January 31, 2026
