Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Deadline: December 2, 2025
The Internet Society Youth Ambassadors Program 2026 is a prestigious global initiative that empowers young leaders passionate about shaping the future of the internet. This programme brings together talented individuals from around the world and equips them with knowledge, mentorship, and opportunities to influence internet governance, digital rights, connectivity, and policy development. Youth Ambassadors participate in exclusive training, engage with international internet governance communities, and contribute to discussions on building an open, secure, and inclusive internet for all. The programme is ideal for young innovators, digital advocates, and emerging policymakers who aspire to drive meaningful change within the digital ecosystem.
Benefits
Youth Ambassadors selected for the 2026 cohort receive a range of valuable opportunities, including:
- Comprehensive training and capacity-building workshops
- Mentoring from global experts in internet governance, cybersecurity, and digital inclusion
- Opportunities to participate in high-level global internet events, forums, and policy discussions
- Access to a worldwide network of Internet Society leaders, alumni, and partners
- Support in strengthening advocacy skills, leadership abilities, and community impact
- Engagement in collaborative projects and community-driven initiatives
These benefits empower ambassadors to play influential roles within their local and global digital communities.
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Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet core requirements such as:
- Being a young leader, typically within a specified age range (often 18–30)
- Demonstrating strong interest or experience in internet governance, digital rights, cybersecurity, connectivity, or online community development
- Showing a history of community engagement or advocacy work
- Possessing strong communication and leadership skills
- Having the ability to participate actively in online training and programme activities
- Commitment to contributing to the Internet Society’s mission of an open and trusted internet
Applicants from all countries are encouraged to apply.
Application Process and Documents Required
The application process involves completing an online form and submitting supporting documents. These typically include:
- A detailed CV or résumé
- A motivation statement explaining interest in the programme
- Evidence of previous advocacy or internet-related work
- A short video or written responses to programme questions (if required)
- Contact information for reference persons
There is an annual selection process, with applications for each intake opening in the fall. There are two phases to the selection process.
1. Online Application
A selection committee reviews all applications without identifying any demographic information to select the best candidates to move to the next round. The selection committee, composed of Internet Society staff, alumni and Chapter/Special Interest Group/Standing Group leaders, scores candidates on their alignment with Internet Society’s mission and vision, as well as the work they’ve done building, promoting, and defending an open, globally connected, secure, and trustworthy Internet.
2. Online Internet Governance Course
The highest-scoring applicants take an online course on Internet Governance. All participants will be divided into three classes, each with a dedicated tutor to facilitate learning.
The 15 top-rated students are chosen for this program.
Deadline: Submit your application by 2nd December 2025.
