Deadline: April 15, 2026
Applications are open for the AWJP x DW Akademie Gender + AI Reporting Fellowship 2026. Artificial intelligence is increasingly shaping decisions in finance, healthcare, governance, education, and digital services. While these technologies offer new opportunities, they can also reproduce existing inequalities, amplify bias, and reshape access to information and resources.
This fellowship supports journalists to investigate how AI and digital technologies are affecting women and gender-diverse communities, while also learning how AI tools can support stronger reporting. This fellowship builds on the first cohort of the Gender + AI Reporting Fellowship, which supported women journalists in producing original reporting on the intersection of gender and emerging technologies.
Participants will gain practical skills in gender-sensitive journalism, AI literacy, and investigative storytelling, while producing original stories for publication. You do not need to be a technology reporter or already know how to use AI tools to apply. The fellowship includes training on how AI tools can support responsible and impactful journalism. They are looking for 10 women journalists who are curious, critical, and motivated to explore the intersection of gender, technology, and society.
Priority will be given to journalists reporting from the following regions:
- Nyanza
- Western
- Rift Valley (including Turkana)
- Central
- Coastal
Benefits
Selected fellows will receive:
- Story production microgrants
- Access to selected AI tools for journalism
- Editorial mentorship from experienced journalists
- Support with data analysis and visual storytelling
- Opportunities for networking and professional development
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Women journalists based in Kenya
- Work in print, radio, television, or digital media
- Be able to participate in online training and mentorship
- Have access to a laptop and a reliable internet connection
- Demonstrate interest in reporting on gender, technology, or digital issues
- Freelance journalists are welcome to apply.
Applicants must submit a letter of intent to publish from a newsroom or media outlet committing to publish fellowship stories.
Selection Criteria
Applications will be assessed based on:
- Quality and originality of the proposed story ideas
- Demonstrated journalism experience
- Motivation and commitment to the fellowship
- Interest in exploring gender and technology issues
- Diversity of applicants across regions and media sectors
Shortlisted applicants may be invited to participate in a virtual interview.
Application
To apply, complete the online application form and upload the following:
- Curriculum Vitae (maximum 2 pages)
- Three samples of published work
- Four story pitches ( maximum 800 words total)
- Motivational statement (maximum 500 words)
- Signed letter of intent to publish
For more information, visit Gender + AI Reporting Fellowship.
