Voices from the South: Storytelling for Impact | A CNN Academy Program

This program is open to young storytellers from the Global South who are eager to make a difference through journalism.

The world is facing an era of unprecedented health challenges, from epidemics and disease outbreaks to the far-reaching impacts of humanitarian crises. In this landscape, we need a new generation of storytellers equipped to report facts and tell urgent, human-centered stories that can drive awareness, accountability, and action.

These stories aren’t just global – they’re deeply local. They demand storytellers who understand the cultural, political and systemic factors shaping health outcomes on the ground.

That’s why this program is investing in emerging journalism from the Global South across regions often at the epicenter of global health emergencies, yet underrepresented in coverage. From reporting on vaccine equity in Sub-Saharan Africa to humanitarian crises in conflict zones, to the resilience of frontline workers, this program will train you to find the stories that matter and tell them in depth, context and impact.

Phase One: Virtual Training

From July to October 1st, 2025

Phase Two: In-Person Training and Simulation 

November 2025, Abu Dhabi

Application deadline: 23 June 2025

Apply Here