EJN Our Ocean Conference 2026 Fellowships: Fully Funded for Journalists
Are you a journalist passionate about ocean issues? The Internews’ Earth Journalism Network (EJN) Our Ocean Conference 2026 Fellowships offer a chance to cover a major global event in Mombasa, Kenya. This fully funded program targets reporters from coastal countries who want to dive into topics like marine protected areas and sustainable fisheries.
About the Our Ocean Conference
The Our Ocean Conference brings leaders together to tackle ocean challenges. The 2026 edition, the 11th one, happens June 16-18 in Mombasa, Kenya. It marks the first time the event takes place in Africa. The theme is “Our Ocean, Our Heritage, Our Future.” Key focuses include marine protected areas (MPAs), sustainable fisheries, marine pollution, sustainable blue economy, climate change, and maritime security. Kenya highlights youth ocean leaders and fights against illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
Fellowship Details
EJN selects fellows to report on the conference. You attend the full event, from June 16-18, with arrival on June 14 and departure on June 19. An orientation day on June 15 includes training on conference topics, guest speakers, and a field trip. Before the event, fellows join a virtual workshop to plan stories and get support. The application deadline is April 7, 2026.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet clear requirements. You need to be a professional journalist from a coastal country or represent an established media house there. Past experience covering ocean topics, like IUU fishing or blue economy, is required. Show the stories you plan to pursue at the conference. You must speak English well and be free for the travel dates. Submit a current resume, a support letter from an editor or supervisor, and recent work samples on ocean issues from the last 12 months. Freelancers qualify if they have a letter from a media outlet that will publish their work. Samples can be in any language with an English summary.
Benefits for Fellows
EJN covers most costs to make attendance easy. This includes economy-class round-trip airfare, hotel stays, meals, ground transport, and travel medical insurance. You get press accreditation help and a per diem for daily needs. Visa costs are reimbursed, but you handle the application. Resources and training prepare you for strong reporting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Our Ocean Conference 2026?
The 11th Our Ocean Conference takes place June 16-18 in Mombasa, Kenya, focusing on issues like marine protected areas, sustainable fisheries, and climate change. It is the first time the event happens in Africa.
Who can apply for the EJN fellowships?
Professional journalists from coastal countries with experience in ocean topics like IUU fishing or blue economy can apply. You need English skills, availability for the dates, and samples of recent work.
What benefits do fellows receive?
EJN covers airfare, hotel, meals, transport, insurance, and per diem. They also provide training, press accreditation, and story planning support.
When is the application deadline?
The deadline to apply is April 7, 2026. Submit your resume, editor letter, and work samples on ocean issues.