Voices from the South: Storytelling for Impact
CNN Academy has introduced Voices from the South: Storytelling for Impact, a fully-funded training program tailored for early-career journalists and content creators from the Global South, including regions such as Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, this initiative seeks to elevate underrepresented voices on pressing public health and humanitarian issues by emphasizing local contexts, cultural dynamics, and systemic challenges ([academy.cnn.com], [opportunitiesforyouth.org]).
In a world increasingly challenged by epidemics, humanitarian crises, and health inequities, authentic local storytelling is more important than ever. This program empowers emerging storytellers to report with depth and authenticity on critical topics like vaccine equity, the resilience of frontline healthcare workers, and effective crisis response. By centering local perspectives, it fosters journalism that is both informative and transformative ([academy.cnn.com]).
The program is structured in two main phases. The first phase, running virtually from July to October 1, 2025, involves participants engaging in comprehensive online courses through the CNN Academy Hub. These courses cover essential areas such as narrative storytelling, health reporting, journalism ethics, and global development issues. To advance, participants must complete all modules, earn badges, and submit a story pitch that reflects their understanding and creativity ([academy.cnn.com]).
The second phase takes place in November 2025 in Abu Dhabi, where selected participants travel—fully funded—to attend immersive, hands-on training sessions. These include workshops on mobile journalism and a crisis simulation centered on global health challenges. After this intensive experience, participants return to their home countries to develop a final reported story, which must be submitted by January 31, 2026. Outstanding stories will be showcased on CNN’s global platforms, offering participants unparalleled exposure ([academy.cnn.com]).
This opportunity is open to individuals who live and work in the Global South and are early-career journalists, filmmakers, or content creators with an existing portfolio. Applicants must be fluent in English, able to commit to both phases of the program, and available to travel to Abu Dhabi in November 2025 ([academy.cnn.com]).
Participants in the program benefit from expert-led journalism training, gaining practical skills in mobile journalism and crisis reporting simulations. All travel, accommodation, and related expenses are fully covered. Additionally, participants receive a certificate of completion and the chance to have their work featured on CNN’s broadcast and digital platforms, which can significantly boost their professional profile ([creativewritingnews.com], [opportunitiesforyouth.org], [linkedin.com], [scholarships.af]).
Key dates to keep in mind include the application deadline on June 23, 2025. The virtual training phase runs from July through October 1, 2025, followed by the in-person training in Abu Dhabi in November 2025. The final story submission deadline is January 31, 2026 ([academy.cnn.com]).
In conclusion, Voices from the South: Storytelling for Impact offers a unique platform for journalists and storytellers in emerging markets to learn from world-class mentors, craft impactful narratives rooted in local realities, and share their stories on a global stage. For those passionate about amplifying stories that matter and committed to professional growth, this fully-funded program represents an extraordinary opportunity to advance their careers and make a meaningful difference through journalism.
If you are interested and meet the eligibility criteria, be sure to apply by June 23, 2025, and become part of a new wave of insightful, informed, and impactful storytelling from the Global South.
