Internet Society Fellowship Program 2027 for Internet Changemakers and Emerging Leaders Worldwide

Internet Society Fellowship Program 2027 for Internet Changemakers and Emerging Leaders Worldwide

Organisation: Internet Society
Programme: Internet Society Fellowship Program
Duration: 10 Months
Eligible Countries: Worldwide
Funding: Project Stipend of up to USD $5,000
Benefits: Mentorship, Project Funding, Travel Support and Leadership Development
Pre-Fellowship Training Deadline: 22 November 2026
Fellowship Application Deadline: 18 December 2026

Programme Overview

The Internet Society invites applications from experienced Internet changemakers and emerging leaders worldwide for its Fellowship Program.

The 10-month fellowship is designed to empower individuals with the knowledge, skills, resources and networks needed to develop practical solutions that strengthen the Internet and create lasting impact in their communities.

The programme combines pre-fellowship training, foundational learning, mentorship, practical project implementation, expert engagement and participation in relevant Internet community events.

Selected fellows will have the opportunity to transform locally grounded ideas into practical projects that contribute to a stronger, more open, inclusive, secure and globally connected Internet.

Fellowship Benefits

Successful fellows will receive the following benefits:

• Dedicated mentorship aligned with their selected project area and fellowship track.
• Project funding of up to USD $5,000, subject to submission and approval of the project budget.
• Travel support to attend a relevant global or regional Internet event, such as the Internet Governance Forum (IGF), AfPIF, NDSS Symposium or other approved events.
• Access to a global network of Internet leaders and professionals.
• Membership opportunities within the Internet Society Alumni Network.
• Leadership development, expert guidance and professional networking opportunities.

Fellowship Tracks and Sub-Tracks

The fellowship programme is organised into three major tracks:

1. Internet Policy and Mobilization

This track focuses on developing advocates who can influence Internet policies and mobilize communities for meaningful local impact.

Sub-Tracks:

• Internet Policy
• Community Mobilization

2. Internet Connectivity

This track develops technical champions working in Internet infrastructure, peering and community-based connectivity.

Sub-Tracks:

• Peering
• Community-Centered Connectivity

3. Internet Safety and Security

This track supports cybersecurity researchers and advocates working to improve online safety and security.

Sub-Tracks:

• Systems Security
• Online Trust and Safety

Fellowship Project

Every fellow is expected to design and implement a practical project that advances Internet development within their community, country, region or area of expertise.

The project will be implemented over six months and must address a real-world challenge.

Projects may involve:

• Policy briefs and research reports.
• Community engagement initiatives.
• Training programmes and workshops.
• Technical resources and implementation plans.
• Online safety and cybersecurity awareness campaigns.
• Toolkits and operational guides.
• Internet advocacy and community development initiatives.

Fellows will receive mentorship, expert guidance, structured reporting support and project funding to implement their proposed initiatives.

Programme Modules

The fellowship includes structured learning and professional development activities covering:

• Introduction to the Internet Society.
• Understanding the Internet Ecosystem.
• Leadership.
• Project Management.
• Advocacy.
• Communications.
• Sub-track-specific expert sessions.
• Mentor check-ins.

Eligibility Requirements

Interested applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Select a fellowship track and sub-track and enrol in the required pre-fellowship training.
• Complete all mandatory training modules before submitting a fellowship application.
• Develop a realistic project proposal aligned with the Internet Society’s mission.
• Demonstrate strong English reading, speaking and writing skills.
• Have reliable Internet access and appropriate equipment for virtual training sessions.
• Be available to participate in weekly programme sessions.
• Commit at least four hours per week throughout the 10-month programme.
• Hold a valid international passport that remains valid for at least six months beyond anticipated fellowship-related travel dates.
• Must not currently be participating in the 2026 Internet Society Fellowship.

Who Should Apply?

The programme is particularly suitable for individuals who:

• Understand local Internet challenges and their connection to global issues.
• Are passionate about Internet governance, connectivity, cybersecurity and online safety.
• Have experience in advocacy, technical projects, community organising, research, training or outreach.
• Can work collaboratively with government institutions, civil society organisations, industry professionals and technical communities.
• Possess strong communication, analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Are committed to promoting an open, secure, inclusive and trustworthy Internet.

Important Application Information and Deadlines

The application process begins with mandatory pre-fellowship training.

Pre-Fellowship Training Registration Opens: 23 September 2026.

Pre-Fellowship Training Period: 23 September – 22 November 2026.

Training Completion Deadline: 22 November 2026.

Fellowship Application Deadline: 18 December 2026.

Applications are processed on a rolling basis. Eligible participants will receive the fellowship application link by email within 24 hours after completing the required training modules.

Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as they receive the application link.

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How to Apply

Interested applicants should visit the official Internet Society Fellowship Program webpage to enrol in the mandatory pre-fellowship training.

Applicants must select their preferred track and sub-track, complete the required training and develop a practical project proposal before proceeding to the fellowship application.

Official Application and Programme Information

Applicants are advised to review the programme requirements, training schedule and application guidelines carefully before applying.

Important Note on AI Usage

Applicants may use generative AI tools for brainstorming and structural editing. However, all application essays and project proposals must reflect their authentic personal experiences, original insights and individual perspectives. Plagiarism and uncredited AI-generated submissions may affect application eligibility.