AWJP x DW Akademie Gender + AI Reporting Fellowship 2026: Apply Now for Women Journalists in Kenya

Artificial intelligence is changing how we live, from banking to healthcare. Yet, it can also deepen biases against women and gender-diverse groups. The AWJP x DW Akademie Gender + AI Reporting Fellowship 2026 offers women journalists in Kenya a chance to explore these issues through hands-on reporting.

This program helps journalists create stories on how AI affects women and gender-diverse communities. It also teaches skills to use AI tools for better journalism. No tech background is needed. Fellows will learn gender-sensitive reporting, AI basics, and investigative methods while producing publishable work.

What the Fellowship Covers

The fellowship focuses on the overlap of gender and AI. AI shapes decisions in areas like finance, health, government, schools, and online services. These tools bring chances for progress but can widen gaps, spread bias, and limit access to info and resources.

This is the second group after the first successful cohort. That group helped women journalists report on gender and new tech. Now, 10 fellows will join online training and mentorship. They will pitch and produce original stories for media outlets.

Priority goes to journalists from Nyanza, Western, Rift Valley (including Turkana), Central, and Coastal regions. The goal is to boost reporting from these areas.

Key Benefits for Fellows

Fellows get real support to succeed. Here is what selected participants receive:

Story production microgrants: Small funds to help cover reporting costs.
Access to AI tools: Selected software made for journalism tasks.
Editorial mentorship: Guidance from seasoned journalists.
Data analysis and visual help: Support to handle data and create strong visuals.
Networking chances: Events for career growth and connections.

These perks make it easier to turn ideas into published stories. Fellows build skills that last beyond the program.

Who Can Apply

This fellowship targets women journalists in Kenya. You must meet these basics:

Work in print, radio, TV, or digital media.
Join online training and mentorship sessions.
Own a laptop and have steady internet.
Show interest in gender, tech, or digital topics.
Freelancers are welcome.

One key need stands out: a signed letter from a newsroom or outlet. It must promise to publish your fellowship stories. This ensures your work reaches readers.

How Selection Works

Judges review applications on clear points:

Strength and fresh ideas in your story pitches.
Your past journalism work.
Your drive and promise to finish the program.
Passion for gender and tech topics.
Mix of regions and media types for balance.

Top applicants may face a virtual interview. They pick 10 fellows based on these factors.

Steps to Apply

The deadline is April 15, 2026. Act fast to submit. Fill the online form and attach:

CV (up to 2 pages).
Three samples of your published stories.
Four story pitches (total under 800 words).
Motivational statement (under 500 words).
Signed letter of intent to publish.

Visit the official site for full details. Prepare strong pitches on AI’s real-world effects on women and gender-diverse people. Show how your stories fill gaps in current coverage.

This fellowship equips journalists to tackle timely issues. It turns curiosity into skills and stories that matter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for the AWJP x DW Akademie Gender + AI Fellowship?

Women journalists in Kenya working in print, radio, TV, or digital media, with a laptop, steady internet, and a signed letter from a media outlet promising to publish stories.

What benefits do selected fellows get?

Fellows receive story production microgrants, access to AI tools, editorial mentorship, data analysis help, visual support, and networking events.

How does the selection process work?

Judges review story pitches, past work, commitment, passion for gender and tech, and regional balance; top applicants may have a virtual interview.

What is the application deadline and what to submit?

The deadline is April 15, 2026; submit an online form with your CV, three story samples, four pitches under 800 words, a motivational statement under 500 words, and a signed publication letter.