CNN Academy, in partnership with BBC Academy Abu Dhabi, has officially opened applications for its highly anticipated 2025 Training Program—a fully funded opportunity for aspiring journalists and storytellers from developing countries, including all African nations.
The program is designed to equip early-career media professionals, content creators, and digital journalists with cutting-edge skills in multimedia storytelling, investigative journalism, and global reporting standards. This year’s edition requires no IELTS and is aimed at those ready to amplify underrepresented stories on a global scale.
What the Program Offers
- Full Sponsorship covering travel, accommodation, and training
- Certification upon completion
- Hands-on newsroom experience in Abu Dhabi
- Mentorship from seasoned CNN journalists and trainers
- Networking with a global cohort of storytellers and media innovators
The program not only enhances technical expertise but also nurtures editorial judgment, ethical reporting, and digital fluency—preparing participants to thrive in today’s fast-evolving media landscape.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must be based in a developing country, including any African nation, Latin America, Asia, or the Caribbean
- Open to early-career journalists, filmmakers, podcasters, and digital storytellers
- Must be fluent in English and fully available for the in-person training in Abu Dhabi
- No IELTS exam is required for participation
How to Apply
- Application deadline: June 23, 2025
- Apply via: academy.cnn.com
This initiative is part of CNN Academy’s broader commitment to media development in the Global South, having previously trained and showcased work from African participants in programs like Climate Storytelling from the Global South.