Internet Society Youth Ambassador Program 2026: Applications are Open to Young People from Around the World

Internet Society Youth Ambassador Program 2026: Applications Now Open

The Internet Society’s Youth Ambassador Program is now accepting applications from motivated young leaders who want to shape the future of the Internet. Designed to empower the next generation of Internet advocates, this prestigious 12-month program selects 15 exceptional young people from around the world and equips them with the skills, network, and platform needed to influence Internet governance and defend a free, open, globally connected Internet.

If you want to make a meaningful impact on digital policy, connect with global experts, and participate in high-level Internet governance discussions, this program offers an unparalleled opportunity.

Why Become a Youth Ambassador?

The Youth Ambassador Program provides a transformational experience for young leaders who want to make a difference in their communities and contribute to a healthier Internet ecosystem. Successful applicants gain access to a range of developmental benefits designed to build both technical expertise and leadership capacity.

Key Advantages of the Program

• Join a global community of Internet leaders. Ambassadors become part of an active network of advocates who champion Internet Society’s mission and work collaboratively to advance digital rights.
• Strengthen Internet governance expertise. Participants receive targeted training covering core concepts, emerging issues, and global Internet policy processes.
• Grow leadership and project skills. The program emphasizes communication, advocacy, project management, and collaboration—skills essential for impactful digital leadership.
• Attend a major Internet governance event. Each ambassador is matched with a regional or international conference tailored to their background, professional goals, and geographic location.
• Engage with global stakeholders. The program creates opportunities to interact with policy leaders, organizations, and experts shaping the Internet’s future.
• Benefit from mentorship. Each participant is paired with an experienced Internet leader who provides guidance, coaching, and professional support.
• Amplify your voice. Ambassadors receive platforms to speak on critical issues, raise awareness locally and globally, and contribute to a more trustworthy and inclusive Internet.

Beyond individual growth, the program fosters collaboration among participants—strengthening networks, encouraging knowledge exchange, and cultivating future leaders who will influence Internet policy in their communities and beyond.

Who Can Apply?

Applications are open to young people from around the world who are passionate about Internet governance and eager to contribute to global digital policy discussions.

Eligibility Requirements

All applicants must:

• Be 18–30 years old at the time of application.
• Demonstrate strong English reading, writing, and speaking skills.
• Feel comfortable with public speaking, advocacy, and communicating complex ideas.
• Have reliable Internet access and the necessary equipment to participate online.
• Be able to dedicate at least 4 hours per week throughout the 12-month program.
• Be available for weekly meetings and webinars held between 11:00–16:00 UTC.
• Be able to travel internationally and hold a valid passport.
• Have not been previously selected as an Internet Society:
  • IGF Ambassador
  • IGF Youth Ambassador
  • Youth@IGF Fellow
  • Youth Ambassador

The program encourages applicants from diverse regions and backgrounds, especially those who are active in community initiatives, digital rights advocacy, Internet governance work, or local technology-driven projects.

How the Selection Process Works

The selection process is competitive and takes place annually. It includes two main stages designed to identify the most committed and promising candidates.

1. Online Application

All submitted applications are reviewed by a selection committee composed of Internet Society staff, program alumni, and leaders from Chapters, Special Interest Groups, and Standing Groups. The evaluation is conducted blindly, without demographic identifiers, to ensure fairness and impartiality.

Applicants are assessed on:

• Alignment with the Internet Society’s mission
• Demonstrated experience in promoting an open, global, secure Internet
• Community involvement and leadership potential

Top applicants are invited to proceed to the next phase.

2. Online Internet Governance Course

Shortlisted candidates complete an online training course in Internet governance. Participants are divided into small classes, each guided by a dedicated tutor. After the course, the top 15 performers are selected as Youth Ambassadors.

Program Experience

Once selected, Youth Ambassadors embark on a 12-month journey of training, mentorship, collaboration, and impact. They receive ongoing support, attend a major Internet event curated to their interests, and build the expertise needed to influence Internet policy at both local and global levels.

Timeline for the 2026 Cohort

• 18 November 2025: Applications open
• 2 December 2025: Applications close
• January 2026: Final selection and official program launch

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the awarding organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.