Artificial intelligence is changing how we live, from banking to healthcare. But 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 ways to use AI tools for better journalism. Fellows do not need prior tech skills. The fellowship follows a successful first group and picks 10 curious journalists ready to connect gender, tech, and society.
Fellowship Focus and Goals
The AWJP x DW Akademie Gender + AI Reporting Fellowship 2026 trains participants in key areas. These include gender-sensitive reporting, understanding AI, and strong investigative techniques. Fellows produce original stories for publication in their media outlets.
Priority goes to journalists from certain Kenyan regions. These are Nyanza, Western, Rift Valley (including Turkana), Central, and Coastal areas. The program runs online, so participants need a laptop and steady internet.
Benefits for Selected Fellows
Fellows receive real support to succeed. This includes story production microgrants to cover costs. They get access to AI tools made for journalism. Editorial mentorship comes from seasoned pros.
Other perks cover data analysis and visual storytelling help. Fellows also join networking events for career growth. These resources help create impactful reports on AI’s role in gender issues.
Who Can Apply
Women journalists based in Kenya qualify. They must work in print, radio, TV, or digital media. Freelancers are welcome. Applicants need to join online training and have a laptop with reliable internet.
Interest in gender, tech, or digital topics is key. Each applicant must submit a signed letter from a newsroom or outlet. This letter promises to publish the fellowship stories.
Selection Criteria
Judges review applications on several points. They look at the quality and fresh ideas in proposed stories. Journalism experience matters, along with motivation for the program.
Commitment to gender and tech topics weighs in. Diversity across regions and media types helps. Shortlisted candidates may face a virtual interview.
How to Apply
The deadline is April 15, 2026. Fill out the online form and upload these items:
- Curriculum vitae, up to 2 pages
- Three samples of published work
- Four story pitches, total under 800 words
- Motivational statement, up to 500 words
- Signed letter of intent to publish
Apply here. For details, check the Gender + AI Reporting Fellowship page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the fellowship?
Women journalists based in Kenya working in print, radio, TV, or digital media, including freelancers, with interest in gender and tech topics.
What benefits do selected fellows receive?
Fellows get story production microgrants, access to AI journalism tools, editorial mentorship, data analysis help, and networking events.
What are the selection criteria?
Judges look at story pitch quality, journalism experience, motivation, commitment to gender and tech, plus regional and media diversity.
How do I apply and what is the deadline?
Fill the online form with CV, three work samples, four pitches, motivational statement, and signed publication letter by April 15, 2026.
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