Applications are open for the 2026/2027 Internet Society Fellowship Program, a 10-month initiative designed to support experienced Internet changemakers and emerging leaders in advancing their careers and creating impact in their communities.

The programme provides fellows with resources and opportunities to develop locally grounded ideas into practical results while contributing to lasting change within their communities and the wider Internet ecosystem.

The Internet Society Fellowship Program combines pre-fellowship training, foundational learning, mentorship, practical project development, engagement with experts and participation in relevant Internet community events.

Through the programme, fellows are expected to strengthen their knowledge, skills, capabilities and professional networks while implementing projects aimed at strengthening and expanding the Internet in their communities.

The programme offers three tracks: Internet Policy and Mobilization, Internet Connectivity, and Internet Safety and Security.

Applicants are expected to demonstrate an understanding of local challenges while connecting those issues to wider concerns involving Internet governance, connectivity, security, trust and safety.

The programme is also seeking applicants who are action-oriented and focused on measurable real-world impact through projects, advocacy, training or community initiatives rather than solely academic or theoretical activities.

Candidates should be able to collaborate across communities, civil society, government, industry and technical groups. Strong communication skills are also required, including the ability to explain technical, policy or security issues clearly to different audiences.

Applicants should demonstrate evidence-based and strategic approaches, using data, analysis and reasoning to identify opportunities, engage decision-makers and guide action. They should also be committed to long-term public benefit and to advancing an open, trustworthy and inclusive Internet in line with the Internet Society’s mission and values.

To qualify, applicants must first select a fellowship track and sub-track and enrol in the required Pre-Fellowship Training and project development experience.

The 2.5-month training period is intended to help prospective applicants build relevant knowledge and develop a realistic, locally grounded project plan aligned with the Internet Society’s mission. The proposed project must be achievable within the fellowship residency period.

Applicants must have a high level of proficiency in reading, speaking and writing English. They must also have continuous Internet access throughout the programme and suitable equipment for participating in virtual training sessions and calls.

Participants must be available for weekly programme sessions and commit at least four hours each week throughout the 10-month programme.

Applicants are also required to hold a valid passport that will remain valid for at least six months beyond their anticipated fellowship-related travel dates. Individuals currently participating in a 2026 Internet Society fellowship are not eligible to apply.

Successful fellows will receive a dedicated mentor whose expertise is aligned with their project area and selected fellowship track or sub-track.

The programme also provides a project stipend of up to USD $5,000, subject to submission and approval of the project budget.

Fellows will receive travel support to attend a global or regional Internet event, such as the Internet Governance Forum (IGF), African Peering and Interconnection Forum (AfPIF), NDSS Symposium, or another event relevant to their programme.

Participants will additionally have the opportunity to join a global network of Internet leaders and gain access to the Internet Society Alumni Network.

However, these benefits are available only to participants who successfully complete the application and selection process and are offered a place in the Fellowship. Enrolment in the Pre-Fellowship Training does not automatically provide access to the benefits.

To become eligible to apply for the fellowship, participants must enrol in and complete all required Pre-Fellowship Training modules before 22 November 2026.

Once completion has been confirmed, eligible participants will receive the Fellowship Program application link by email within 24 hours.

The fellowship application process will operate on a rolling basis. Eligible participants can submit their applications once they receive the application link, with the final application deadline set for 18 December 2026.

The applicant journey begins with enrolment in the Pre-Fellowship Training, followed by completion of all required modules. Participants who meet the requirements will then receive the fellowship application link and submit their applications.

Applications will subsequently undergo review and selection, after which successful applicants will receive a fellowship outcome offer before beginning the programme.

The programme timeline runs from September 2026 through December 2027. Open enrolment for the self-paced Pre-Fellowship Training runs from 23 September to 22 November 2026.

Fellowship applications close on 18 December 2026, with applications opening on a rolling basis as trainees complete their required modules.

The fellowship application review and selection period is scheduled for 21 December 2026 to 29 January 2027, while fellowship notifications and acceptance are scheduled for 19 February 2027.

The programme kick-off and onboarding will take place on 22 February 2027. Mentored project execution is scheduled from 1 June to 30 November 2027, followed by final project delivery on 3 December 2027.

A graduation ceremony is scheduled for early December 2027.

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the Internet Society Fellowship Program

Source: Opportunities for Africans.