CNN Academy Training Program

📝 About CNN Academy Training Program

The CNN Academy Training Program 2025 is designed to equip emerging storytellers from the Global South with the skills to report impactful, human-centered stories. This program focuses on addressing global health challenges and amplifying underrepresented voices in journalism.

The program is structured into two phases, combining virtual training and in-person simulation, to provide participants with comprehensive storytelling expertise.

📅 Opportunity Details

• Date Published: May 27, 2025
• Application Deadline: June 23, 2025
• Category: Fully Funded, Training
• Opportunity Location: United Arab Emirates
• Sponsor Organization: Cable News Network (CNN)

🌍 Why This Program Matters

The world faces unprecedented health challenges, from epidemics to humanitarian crises. This program aims to empower journalists from the Global South to tell stories that matter, with depth, context, and impact. Participants will explore topics such as vaccine equity, humanitarian crises, and the resilience of frontline workers, while gaining the skills to produce high-quality, meaningful journalism.

🏗️ Program Structure

Phase One: Virtual Training

• Duration: July to October 1, 2025
• Delivered online via the CNN Academy Hub.
• Participants will complete courses on storytelling and global issues affecting the Global South.
• To progress to Phase Two, participants must:
  • Complete and pass all required courses.
  • Earn necessary badges.
  • Submit a pitch for a story they wish to produce using the skills learned.

Phase Two: In-Person Training and Simulation

• Duration: November 2025
• Location: Abu Dhabi
• Hands-on training focusing on mobile journalism and storytelling techniques.
• Participants will engage in the 2025 CNN Academy Simulation, centered on global health reporting.
• This phase provides real-world experience in a dynamic news environment.

🎁 Benefits of the Program

• Fully-funded training covering all costs.
• Opportunity to showcase selected stories on CNN’s linear and digital platforms, reaching a global audience.

✅ Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the CNN Academy Training Program, applicants must:

• Reside and work in a country located in the Global South (developing countries in Latin America, the Caribbean, Africa, and Asia).
• Identify as a content creator, journalist, or storyteller in the early stages of their career.
• Have a portfolio of relevant work.
• Possess strong communication skills and fluency in spoken and written English.
• Demonstrate a commitment to actively participating in the entire training program and applying the acquired skills to their reporting projects.
• Be able and willing to travel to Abu Dhabi for the CNN Academy Simulation in November 2025.

🛠️ Application Process

1. Phase One Application:

   • Submit a brief application verifying your eligibility, including your background and why you are a good fit for the program.
   • Successful applicants will gain access to virtual courses and work toward earning a certificate of completion.

2. Phase Two Application:

   • Submit the following:
     • Samples of your previous work.
     • Proof of origin from a country in the Global South.
   • Upload a story pitch reflecting a global issue relevant to the Global South. The pitch should demonstrate a deep understanding of the subject matter and be realistic in terms of execution.

3. Final Story Submission:

   • After completing the simulation, participants will return to their home country to produce their final story.
   • The completed piece must be submitted by January 31, 2026.
   • Selected stories will be showcased on CNN’s platforms.

📅 Key Dates

• Application Deadline: June 23, 2025
• Virtual Training: July to October 1, 2025
• In-Person Training and Simulation: November 2025
• Final Story Submission: January 31, 2026

🌐 Application Links

• View Program Details
• Apply Here

This is a unique opportunity for emerging storytellers to gain world-class training and make a meaningful impact through journalism. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the CNN Academy Training Program 2025!

• This is a fully-funded training.