Apply Now: Fully Funded CNN Academy ‘Voices from the South’ Storytelling Program

CNN Academy is now accepting applications for its groundbreaking media training program, Voices from the South: Storytelling for Impact. This initiative is designed to empower the next generation of journalists from the Global South to tell urgent, human-centered stories that influence awareness, accountability, and action in global health.

Why This Program Matters

The world is grappling with complex health emergencies, from disease outbreaks to the far-reaching effects of humanitarian crises. These issues demand storytelling that is not only accurate but also deeply rooted in local realities. However, many regions at the center of these challenges—particularly in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean—remain underrepresented in global media.

CNN Academy, with support from the Gates Foundation, is addressing this gap by training and supporting early-career journalists and content creators from the Global South. The program focuses on helping participants report impactful stories that reflect the health, cultural, and political dynamics of their communities.

Program Overview

Phase One: Virtual Training (July to October 1, 2025)

During this online phase, participants will complete a series of expert-led courses on the CNN Academy Hub. These courses are designed to build storytelling skills, strengthen journalistic ethics, and deepen understanding of global health and development issues.

To progress to Phase Two, participants must complete all courses, earn the required badges, and submit a story pitch reflecting the skills and knowledge gained.

Phase Two: In-Person Training and Simulation (November 2025, Abu Dhabi)

Selected participants will travel to Abu Dhabi for immersive, in-person training. This phase includes hands-on workshops focused on mobile journalism and real-time news reporting. Participants will also take part in the 2025 CNN Academy Simulation, centered on global health reporting.

CNN Academy will cover all travel and accommodation costs associated with this phase.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Reside and work in a country located in the Global South, including countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Pacific

• Be an early-career journalist, storyteller, or content creator

• Have a portfolio of relevant work in media or storytelling

• Demonstrate fluency in spoken and written English

• Show a strong commitment to completing the full program and applying the acquired skills

• Be able and willing to travel to Abu Dhabi in November 2025

Application Deadline: June 23, 2025

Applicants must complete a short online form verifying their eligibility and describing their motivation for applying. Successful applicants will be granted access to Phase One of the program.

To be considered for Phase Two, applicants will need to submit:

• Samples of previous work

• Proof of origin from a country in the Global South

• A compelling story pitch relevant to global health and their region

Final Story Submission and Global Exposure

Upon completion of the simulation, participants will return to their home countries and produce their final story. These stories must be submitted by January 31, 2026. A select number of outstanding pieces will be featured on CNN’s digital and broadcast platforms, offering global exposure for emerging journalists.

About the Program

The CNN Academy Voices from the South program is made possible through funding from the Gates Foundation. It seeks to create a more inclusive and representative global media landscape by equipping emerging voices with the tools and training to tell impactful stories that drive change.

Apply Now

If you are ready to elevate your storytelling and make a meaningful impact, apply before the deadline on June 23, 2025.