Gender + AI Reporting Fellowship 2026: Fully Funded for Women Journalists in Kenya
Are you a woman journalist in Kenya eager to uncover how artificial intelligence shapes women’s lives? The Gender + AI Reporting Fellowship 2026 offers a fully funded chance to dive into this topic. Organized by the Africa Women Journalism Project (AWJP) and DW Akademie, this program equips 10 women journalists with skills to report on AI’s effects in areas like health, education, and governance.
About the Gender + AI Reporting Fellowship 2026
This six-month fellowship helps women journalists explore the links between AI, technology, and gender. It follows a successful first group that created strong stories on tech and gender issues. Fellows will learn to use AI tools responsibly in their work and produce stories that highlight impacts on women and diverse communities.
The program selects journalists who love investigative work and want to shape tech discussions. Participants get hands-on training, expert guidance, and resources to build high-quality reports.
Fellowship Duration and Phases
The Gender + AI Reporting Fellowship 2026 runs from April to September 2026. It breaks into clear phases to support fellows step by step.
Training Phase
Online sessions teach key skills like AI basics for reporters, gender-aware reporting, and checking AI’s social effects. Experts from AWJP, DW Akademie, and others cover ethics, data, algorithms, and digital tools.
Mentorship Phase
Each fellow pairs with an experienced editor for personal advice. This includes help with story ideas, feedback, and production support.
Story Production Phase
Fellows create and publish four original stories on AI’s role in topics such as governance, finance, education, health, or climate. The goal is 40 stories total across Kenyan media. Fellows also use AI to improve their reporting.
Showcase and Networking Phase
The program ends with a public event where fellows share their work. It opens doors to media contacts and career growth.
Key Benefits for Fellows
Selected participants receive full support:
- Microgrants for story production.
- AI tools tailored for journalism.
- One-on-one editorial mentorship.
- Help with data analysis and visuals.
- Networking events and skill-building chances.
Who Can Apply: Eligibility Criteria
This fellowship targets women journalists in Kenya working in print, radio, TV, or online media. Freelancers qualify too. You need:
- A laptop and steady internet.
- Interest in gender, tech, or digital topics.
- A signed letter from a newsroom promising to publish your work.
Priority goes to journalists from Nyanza, Western, Rift Valley (including Turkana), Central, or Coastal areas.
Application Requirements
Submit these items:
- CV (up to 2 pages).
- Three published work samples.
- Four story pitches (total under 800 words).
- Motivational statement (up to 500 words).
- Signed letter of intent from a media outlet.
Selection Criteria
Judges look at:
- Fresh, strong story ideas.
- Your journalism background.
- Passion for gender and tech.
- Commitment level.
- Mix of regions and media types.
Shortlisted applicants may face a virtual interview.
Important Dates
Apply by April 15, 2026. Early submissions boost your odds.
How to Apply
Use the online form at the official link and upload your documents. For questions, email [email protected].
About the Organizers
AWJP aids women journalists in Africa with training, funding, and mentorship for gender-focused stories. DW Akademie, from Deutsche Welle, boosts global journalism, press freedom, and information access.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need AI experience?
No, training covers the basics.
Can freelancers join?
Yes.
How many spots?
10 fellows.
Is it fully funded?
Yes, with grants, tools, and mentorship.
What do fellows produce?
Four stories each.
All online?
Yes.
Need media commitment?
Yes, a signed letter.
Story topics?
AI in governance, health, education, finance, climate, and similar.
Networking included?
Yes, with a showcase.
Who runs it?
AWJP and DW Akademie.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need prior AI experience to apply?
No, the training phase covers AI basics for reporters along with gender-aware reporting skills.
Can freelance journalists participate?
Yes, freelancers qualify as long as they provide a signed letter from a media outlet promising to publish their work.
How many fellows will be selected?
The program selects 10 women journalists from Kenya.
Is the fellowship fully funded?
Yes, it provides microgrants, AI tools, mentorship, and networking support.