Internet Society Fellowship Program
The program empowers experienced Internet changemakers and emerging leaders alike to take the next step in their careers and make a real impact.
The 10-month program gives fellows the opportunity and resources to turn locally grounded ideas into tangible results and lead lasting change in their communities and across the Internet ecosystem.
Internet Society Fellowship Program
The program empowers experienced Internet changemakers and emerging leaders alike to take the next step in their careers and make a real impact.
The 10-month program gives fellows the opportunity and resources to turn locally grounded ideas into tangible results and lead lasting change in their communities and across the Internet ecosystem.
About the Internet Society Fellowship Program
The Internet Society Fellowship Program is a structured learning and leadership experience that combines pre-fellowship training, foundational learning, mentorship, a practical project, expert engagement opportunities, and participation in relevant Internet community events.
Fellows build knowledge, skills, capabilities, and networks while working on projects that strengthen and expand the Internet in their communities.
Benefits for Selected Fellows
Acceptance into the Internet Society Fellowship Program provides fellows with:
- A dedicated mentor aligned with their project area and fellowship track/sub-track.
- A project stipend of up to USD $5,000 (upon submission and approval of the project budget).
- Travel support to attend a global or regional Internet event (e.g., IGF, AfPIF, NDSS Symposium, or another program-relevant event).
- The opportunity to join a global network of Internet leaders and gain access to the Internet Society Alumni Network.
The benefits are available to participants who successfully complete the application and selection process and are offered a place in the Fellowship. Enrolment in the Pre-Fellowship Training does not automatically provide access to these benefits.
The program is divided into three main tracks: Internet Policy and Mobilization, Internet Connectivity, and Internet Safety and Security.
01
Internet Policy and Mobilization
Develops advocates who influence Internet policies and mobilize communities for local impact.
Sub-Tracks:
Internet Policy
Community Mobilization
02
Internet Connectivity
Builds technical champions in peering, community networks, and Internet infrastructure.
Sub-Tracks:
Peering
Community‑Centered Connectivity
03
Internet Safety and Security
Develops cybersecurity researchers and online safety champions.
Sub-Tracks:
Systems Security
Online Trust and Safety
Every fellow is expected to design and implement a practical project that advances the Internet in their community, country, region, or area of expertise.
The project, implemented over six months, serves as the key component of the fellowship and enables fellows to apply the knowledge, skills, and networks developed throughout the program to a real-world challenge.
Fellows receive support for their projects through mentorship, expert guidance, structured reporting, and project funding. They are expected to define clear objectives, activities, deliverables, and intended outcomes, and to demonstrate the project’s impact through regular progress reporting and final outputs.
Outputs may include, but are not limited to, policy briefs, research reports, training programs, community engagement initiatives, workshops, technical resources, implementation plans, awareness campaigns, toolkits, operational guides, or other tangible deliverables that contribute to a stronger, more open, globally connected, and secure Internet.
Applicants should select the project category that best aligns with their proposed project. Learn more about the project categories for each track.
- Foundational Leadership Core Module
- Introduction to the Internet Society
- The Internet Ecosystem
- Leadership
- Project Management
- Advocacy
- Communications
- Sub-Track-Specific Expert Sessions
- Mentor Check-Ins
About the Internet Society Fellowship Program
The Internet Society Fellowship Program is a structured learning and leadership experience that combines pre-fellowship training, foundational learning, mentorship, a practical project, expert engagement opportunities, and participation in relevant Internet community events.
Fellows build knowledge, skills, capabilities, and networks while working on projects that strengthen and expand the Internet in their communities.
Program Benefits
Acceptance into the Internet Society Fellowship Program provides fellows with:
- A dedicated mentor aligned with their project area and fellowship track/sub-track.
- A project stipend of up to USD $5,000 (upon submission and approval of the project budget).
- Travel support to attend a global or regional Internet event (e.g., IGF, AfPIF, NDSS Symposium, or another program-relevant event).
- The opportunity to join a global network of Internet leaders and gain access to the Internet Society Alumni Network.
Program Tracks and Sub-Tracks
The program is divided into three main tracks: Internet Policy and Mobilization, Internet Connectivity, and Internet Safety and Security.
01
Internet Policy and Mobilization
Develops advocates who influence Internet policies and mobilize communities for local impact.
Sub-Tracks:
Internet Policy
Community Mobilization
02
Internet Connectivity
Builds technical champions in peering, community networks, and Internet infrastructure.
Sub-Tracks:
Peering
Community‑Centered Connectivity
03
Internet Safety and Security
Develops cybersecurity researchers and online safety champions.
Sub-Tracks:
Systems Security
Online Trust and Safety
Fellowship Project
Every fellow is expected to design and implement a practical project that advances the Internet in their community, country, region, or area of expertise.
The project, implemented over six months, serves as the key component of the fellowship and enables fellows to apply the knowledge, skills, and networks developed throughout the program to a real-world challenge.
Fellows receive support for their projects through mentorship, expert guidance, structured reporting, and project funding. They are expected to define clear objectives, activities, deliverables, and intended outcomes, and to demonstrate the project’s impact through regular progress reporting and final outputs.
Outputs may include, but are not limited to, policy briefs, research reports, training programs, community engagement initiatives, workshops, technical resources, implementation plans, awareness campaigns, toolkits, operational guides, or other tangible deliverables that contribute to a stronger, more open, globally connected, and secure Internet.
Applicants should select the project category that best aligns with their proposed project.
Learn more about the project categories for each track.
Program Modules
- Foundational Leadership Core Module
- Introduction to the Internet Society
- The Internet Ecosystem
- Leadership
- Project Management
- Advocacy
- Communications
- Sub-Track-Specific Expert Sessions
- Mentor Check-Ins
Becoming an Internet Society Fellow
How the Application Process Works
To become eligible to apply for the fellowship program, participants must enroll in and complete all required Pre-Fellowship Training modules before 22 November 2026. Once completion is confirmed, eligible participants will receive the Fellowship Program application link via email within 24 hours.
The application process operates on a rolling basis. Eligible participants may submit their application as soon as they receive the application link and no later than 18 December 2026.
Applicant Journey
- Step 1: Enroll in Pre-Fellowship Training
- Step 2: Complete all required modules
- Step 3: Receive the fellowship application link
- Step 4: Submit the fellowship application
- Step 5: Fellowship applications review and selection process
- Step 6: Fellowship outcome offer
- Step 7: Begin the fellowship
Timeline
- 23 September 2026–22 November 2026: Open enrollment period for pre-fellowship training (self-paced)
- 18 December 2026: Fellowship applications close. Open on a rolling basis as soon as a trainee completes their modules.
- 21 December 2026–29 January 2027: Fellowship application review and selection
- 19 February 2027: Fellowship notifications and acceptance
- 22 February 2027: Kick-off and onboarding
- 1 June 2027–30 November 2027: Mentored project execution
- 3 December 2027: Final project delivery
- Early December 2027: Graduation ceremony
Application Requirements
- Pre-requisite training: Applicants must select a track and sub-track and enroll in the training and project development experience. The training must be completed before the applicant can apply for the fellowship.
- Project plan: During the 2.5-month training period, prospective applicants will build relevant knowledge and develop a realistic, locally grounded project plan aligned with the Internet Society’s mission. The proposed project must be achievable within the duration of the fellowship residency.
- Proficiency in English: Applicants must have a high level of reading, speaking, and writing skills in English.
- Reliable Internet access: Applicants will need continuous access to the Internet during all the phases of the program as well as the appropriate equipment to join virtual training sessions and calls.
- Weekly program dedication: Applicants must have the availability to take part in weekly sessions and be able to dedicate a minimum of four hours per week during the 10-month program.
- Valid passport: Applicants must hold a valid passport that remains valid for at least six months beyond anticipated fellowship-related travel dates.
- Not a current fellow: Applicants cannot be currently taking part in a 2026 Internet Society fellowship.
Who Should Apply
We are looking for individuals who are:
- Locally rooted and globally aware: You understand local challenges while connecting them to broader Internet governance, connectivity, security, or trust and safety issues.
- Action-oriented and impact-driven: You focus on creating real-world change through concrete projects, advocacy, training, or community initiatives rather than purely academic or theoretical work.
- Collaborative and multistakeholder-minded: You work effectively across communities, civil society, government, industry, and technical groups to achieve sustainable outcomes.
- Strong communicators: You can explain complex technical, policy, or security concepts in accessible language and tailor messages to diverse audiences.
- Evidence-based and strategic: You use data, analysis, and clear reasoning to identify opportunities, influence decision-makers, and guide action.
- Committed to long-term public benefit: You see the fellowship as the start of sustained engagement, advancing an open, trustworthy, and inclusive Internet while aligning with the Internet Society’s mission and values.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Focus on a clearly defined problem and a practical response. Describe a specific challenge you want to address and explain the concrete change you hope to achieve.
- Show that you have relevant experience and are ready to deliver. Show evidence of past work, whether through advocacy, technical projects, community organizing, training, research, or outreach.
- Highlight your community connections. Explain who you work with, who will benefit from your project, and why you are trusted or well-positioned to make a difference in that community.
- Show how you collaborate with others. Strong fellows work across sectors and stakeholders. Emphasize partnerships, coalition building, mentoring, or experience working with governments, civil society, industry, academia, or technical communities.
- Think beyond the fellowship. Describe how your project will continue after the program ends. Show long-term commitment, sustainability, and a plan to multiply impact through training, networks, or ongoing advocacy.
- Connect your goals to the Internet Society’s mission. Demonstrate your commitment to an open, secure, trustworthy, and trustworthy Internet. If you have engaged with Internet Society chapters, programs, communities, or related initiatives, be sure to highlight that experience.
AI Content Use Policy. While generative AI tools may be used for brainstorming or structural editing, all short-answer essays and project proposals must reflect the applicant’s unique insights and authentic personal experience. The Internet Society reserves the right to run submissions through algorithmic text verification systems. Plagiarism or uncredited AI-generated narratives will result in disqualification.
More Information
Looking for more information about the Internet Society Fellowship Program? Check out our FAQs or contact us.
Ready to take the required training courses to become an Internet Society fellow?
Courses must be completed before you can start your fellowship application.
- How the Application Process Works
- Timeline
- Application Requirements
- Who Should Apply
- Tips for a Strong Application
- More Information
To become eligible to apply for the fellowship program, participants must enroll in and complete all required Pre-Fellowship Training modules before 22 November 2026. Once completion is confirmed, eligible participants will receive the Fellowship Program application link via email within 24 hours.
The application process operates on a rolling basis. Eligible participants may submit their application as soon as they receive the application link and no later than 18 December 2026.
Applicant Journey
- Step 1: Enroll in Pre-Fellowship Training
- Step 2: Complete all required modules
- Step 3: Receive the fellowship application link
- Step 4: Submit the fellowship application
- Step 5: Fellowship applications review and selection process
- Step 6: Fellowship outcome offer
- Step 7: Begin the fellowship
- 23 September 2026–22 November 2026: Open enrollment period for pre-fellowship training (self-paced)
- 18 December 2026: Fellowship applications close. Open on a rolling basis as soon as a trainee completes their modules.
- 21 December 2026–29 January 2027: Fellowship application review and selection
- 19 February 2027: Fellowship notifications and acceptance
- 22 February 2027: Kick-off and onboarding
- 1 June 2027–30 November 2027: Mentored project execution
- 3 December 2027: Final project delivery
- Early December 2027: Graduation ceremony
Throughout the year, fellows will attend conferences and/or events that are relevant to their tracks and sub-tracks. These will take place at various times, depending on the track the fellow selects.
- Pre-requisite training: Applicants must select a track and sub-track and enroll in the training and project development experience. The training must be completed before the applicant can apply for the fellowship.
- Project plan: During the 2.5-month training period, prospective applicants will build relevant knowledge and develop a realistic, locally grounded project plan aligned with the Internet Society’s mission. The proposed project must be achievable within the duration of the fellowship residency.
- Proficiency in English: Applicants must have a high level of reading, speaking, and writing skills in English.
- Reliable Internet access: Applicants will need continuous access to the Internet during all the phases of the program as well as the appropriate equipment to join virtual training sessions and calls.
- Weekly program dedication: Applicants must have the availability to take part in weekly sessions and be able to dedicate a minimum of four hours per week during the 10-month program.
- Valid passport: Applicants must hold a valid passport that remains valid for at least six months beyond anticipated fellowship-related travel dates.
- Not a current fellow: Applicants cannot be currently taking part in a 2026 Internet Society fellowship.
We are looking for individuals who are:
- Locally rooted and globally aware: You understand local challenges while connecting them to broader Internet governance, connectivity, security, or trust and safety issues.
- Action-oriented and impact-driven: You focus on creating real-world change through concrete projects, advocacy, training, or community initiatives rather than purely academic or theoretical work.
- Collaborative and multistakeholder-minded: You work effectively across communities, civil society, government, industry, and technical groups to achieve sustainable outcomes.
- Strong communicators: You can explain complex technical, policy, or security concepts in accessible language and tailor messages to diverse audiences.
- Evidence-based and strategic: You use data, analysis, and clear reasoning to identify opportunities, influence decision-makers, and guide action.
- Committed to long-term public benefit: You see the fellowship as the start of sustained engagement, advancing an open, trustworthy, and inclusive Internet while aligning with the Internet Society’s mission and values.
- Focus on a clearly defined problem and a practical response. Describe a specific challenge you want to address and explain the concrete change you hope to achieve.
- Show that you have relevant experience and are ready to deliver. Show evidence of past work, whether through advocacy, technical projects, community organizing, training, research, or outreach.
- Highlight your community connections. Explain who you work with, who will benefit from your project, and why you are trusted or well-positioned to make a difference in that community.
- Show how you collaborate with others. Strong fellows work across sectors and stakeholders. Emphasize partnerships, coalition building, mentoring, or experience working with governments, civil society, industry, academia, or technical communities.
- Think beyond the fellowship. Describe how your project will continue after the program ends. Show long-term commitment, sustainability, and a plan to multiply impact through training, networks, or ongoing advocacy.
- Connect your goals to the Internet Society’s mission. Demonstrate your commitment to an open, secure, trustworthy, and trustworthy Internet. If you have engaged with Internet Society chapters, programs, communities, or related initiatives, be sure to highlight that experience.
AI Content Use Policy. While generative AI tools may be used for brainstorming or structural editing, all short-answer essays and project proposals must reflect the applicant’s unique insights and authentic personal experience. The Internet Society reserves the right to run submissions through algorithmic text verification systems. Plagiarism or uncredited AI-generated narratives will result in disqualification.
Looking for more information about the Internet Society Fellowship Program? Check out our FAQs or contact us.
Ready to take the required training courses to become an Internet Society fellow?
Courses must be completed before you can start your fellowship application.
Meet Some Fellows from Past Programs
I undertook the fellowship to push myself and to truly understand how the Internet I use actually works. I’m not just studying technology; I’m learning how to shape how it can inspire, include, and empower the next generation. Technology evolves fast, but human potential evolves faster; we just need to give people the tools to imagine what they can become and what they can create. There is nothing greater than seeing the faces of people doing remarkable things they never realised they had inside them. I’ve made incredible connections through my Early Career Fellowship, travelling the world with my fellow ‘Baby Sharks’ to many events such as UN summits in Japan, Norway, the UK, China…etc.. It’s unlocked a whole new world of opportunities.”
The Mid Career Fellowship program is a transformative, applied learning experience for technologists and technology enthusiasts. The opportunity to learn with and from fellow colleagues working in different geographies and across diverse disciplines was invaluable and directly applicable to my full-time work in EdTech. […] I’d highly recommend this program to develop leadership skills and knowledge of new technologies, reinvigorate your current career, and build a foundation for future work.”
Being selected for the Youth Ambassador Program has been an enriching experience. The program allowed me to delve deeper into key topics such as Internet governance, digital inclusion, and cybersecurity while connecting with inspiring peers and mentors from across the globe.
This fellowship strengthened my skills in advocating for equitable digital policies and inclusive governance frameworks.”
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All the images are courtesy of the fellows from the past programs.