The Pulitzer Center has opened applications for the second cohort of Lavwa Lenpak, a programme designed for content creators across Africa who are passionate about forest governance, human rights and public-interest storytelling.
The 2026 edition focuses specifically on governance and human rights in the forestry sector, with particular attention to the Congo Basin. The programme seeks African content creators who can use digital storytelling and investigative journalism approaches to strengthen public understanding of important issues and encourage informed discussion within their communities.
Applications are open until August 26, 2026.
About the Lavwa Lenpak Programme
Lavwa Lenpak aims to strengthen the role of African content creators as trusted voices within their communities. The programme draws inspiration from investigative journalism and provides participants with tools to understand complex public-interest issues, evaluate information critically and produce reliable, engaging digital content.
The initiative also seeks to establish a stronger connection between Pulitzer Center-supported journalism and audiences across Africa. Participants will learn how to transform complex investigative reporting into accessible content that is suitable for social media and relevant to local audiences.
The second cohort places particular emphasis on forestry-sector governance and human rights, creating an opportunity for creators to explore issues affecting forests, communities, accountability and sustainable governance.
Who the Programme Is For
Lavwa Lenpak is intended for African content creators who are interested in using their platforms to promote critical thinking, public awareness and open debate.
Applicants should have an interest in:
- Forest governance and environmental issues.
- Human rights and community interests.
- Investigative journalism and public-interest reporting.
- Critical thinking and responsible information sharing.
- Digital storytelling and social media content.
- Accountability and governance.
- Issues affecting communities in Africa, particularly those connected to the Congo Basin.
The programme is particularly relevant to creators who want to strengthen their ability to communicate complex issues accurately while maintaining engaging and accessible storytelling formats.
Learning and Development Opportunities
Selected participants will gain access to a range of resources and professional development opportunities through the Pulitzer Center.
The programme includes access to Pulitzer Center-supported reporting and journalistic resources, enabling participants to engage with investigative journalism and develop a deeper understanding of public-interest topics.
Participants will also have opportunities to collaborate with journalists and receive personalised feedback on their content. This practical engagement can help creators improve the quality, credibility and effectiveness of their storytelling.
Masterclasses and Training
The Lavwa Lenpak programme includes masterclasses covering several important areas of modern digital communication and journalism.
Training opportunities will focus on:
- Disinformation and how it affects public understanding.
- The role of trusted voices in communities.
- Creative storytelling techniques.
- Scriptwriting for digital content.
- Critical thinking and responsible communication.
- Making complex investigations accessible to social media audiences.
These sessions are intended to help content creators become more effective communicators while strengthening their ability to identify, understand and explain issues of public interest.
Participation Stipend
Selected participants will receive a $500 participation stipend.
The stipend will be paid at the end of the programme, subject to the approval and completion of all required deliverables. Participants should therefore be prepared to meet the programme’s expectations and complete the assigned activities and content requirements.
Focus on Forest Governance and Human Rights
The 2026 cohort’s focus on forestry governance and human rights is particularly significant for African communities affected by environmental, economic and governance challenges.
With a special focus on the Congo Basin, the programme provides an opportunity for content creators to contribute to broader conversations around accountability, forest management, human rights and the interests of communities connected to forest ecosystems.
By improving creators’ understanding of investigative reporting and strengthening their ability to communicate reliable information, Lavwa Lenpak aims to support more informed public dialogue across Africa.
Why Content Creators Should Apply
The programme offers more than technical storytelling training. It provides participants with opportunities to engage with professional journalists, access high-quality reporting resources and receive direct feedback on their work.
For African creators seeking to build credibility around public-interest issues, Lavwa Lenpak can provide valuable exposure to investigative journalism practices and new approaches to communicating complex subjects through digital platforms.
Participants will also become part of a broader effort to encourage critical thinking, accountability and open debate on issues affecting African communities.
Application Deadline and Further Information
The deadline for applications is August 26, 2026. Interested African content creators should review the official programme guidelines carefully before submitting an application.
The Pulitzer Center encourages creators who are committed to fostering critical thinking and promoting informed discussion about forest governance and human rights to consider joining the second cohort of Lavwa Lenpak.
The programme represents an opportunity for African digital storytellers to strengthen their professional skills, connect with journalists and contribute to meaningful conversations about governance, rights and environmental issues.
