Call for Entries: Young Media Makers Fellowship Program

Deadline: 15-Mar-2026

The Young Media Makers Fellowship by DW Akademie in the Western Balkans provides fully funded training, mentoring, and project development for 12 young media professionals. Participants develop innovative media products targeting young audiences, especially in rural areas, through workshops, study visits, and expert-led sessions from mid-2026 to 2028.

Program Overview

The DW Akademie Young Media Makers Fellowship aims to strengthen the professional skills of media practitioners in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia. The program supports:

• Innovative media formats and strategies

• Engagement with young audiences under 30, particularly in rural areas

• Mobile journalism, TikTok and Instagram reporting, and podcasting

• Media literacy, AI in media, and sustainable media business models

• Project management, media consulting, and train-the-trainer approaches

• Peer exchange, mentoring, and study visits to EU media organisations

Fellows gain practical skills, leadership experience, and mentorship to implement an original media project in their home country.

Fellowship Structure

• Duration: Mid-2026 to end of 2028

• Modules: 12 modules combining online and in-person sessions

• Activities include: Seminars, workshops, mentoring sessions, professional trips, and study visits

• Locations: In-person modules in Western Balkan and European Union countries

• Certification: Participants who complete the program receive a certificate

Funding and Support

• Fully funded participation – no cost to fellows

• Covers travel, accommodation, meals, and program-related expenses

• Visa support provided through official invitation letters for selected participants

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be aged 25–35 (born between 1 June 1991 and 1 June 2001)

• Reside in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, or Serbia

• Have work experience in journalism, media projects, project management, or related fields

• Demonstrate good English language skills (program conducted in English)

• Show strong motivation to create media content for young audiences under 30

• Propose an original media project connecting young people in rural areas with media

• Be available for all 12 modules and the kick-off meeting in Belgrade (30 May – 3 June 2026)

How to Apply

1. Complete the Official Application Form

2. Motivation Letter – Up to 3,000 characters detailing professional background and reasons for applying

3. Project Proposal – Up to 4,000 characters describing a media product idea for young rural audiences

4. Curriculum Vitae (CV) – In English, including:

   • Personal details

   • Media work experience

   • English language skills

   • Other relevant qualifications

5. Submission: Via email by 15 March 2026

Program Benefits

• Hands-on training: Interactive workshops and seminars

• Mentoring support: Guidance for implementing a media project in your country

• Networking opportunities: Connections with regional and EU media organisations

• Professional growth: Skills in media production, project management, and innovative reporting

• Recognition: Certificate of completion upon finishing all program modules

Tips for Applicants

• Propose a clear, original media project idea that targets rural youth

• Highlight relevant experience in journalism, media, or project management

• Ensure availability for all program modules and travel dates

• Use concise language in your motivation letter and project proposal

• Demonstrate understanding of youth media engagement strategies

FAQs

1. Who can apply?
Young media professionals aged 25–35 from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, or Serbia.

2. How many participants will be selected?
12 participants will be chosen for the fellowship.

3. Is the fellowship fully funded?
Yes, all travel, accommodation, meals, and program costs are covered.

4. What is the focus of the projects?
Projects must aim to engage young people under 30, particularly in rural areas, through innovative media content.

5. Can non-English speakers apply?
Applicants must have good English language skills, as the program is conducted in English.

6. Are participants required to attend in-person modules?
Yes, selected fellows must participate in both online and in-person modules, including the kick-off meeting in Belgrade.

7. What is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted via email by 15 March 2026.

Conclusion

The DW Akademie Young Media Makers Fellowship provides an exceptional opportunity for young media professionals in the Western Balkans to develop innovative media skills, engage rural youth audiences, and create impactful projects. Fully funded training, mentorship, and networking ensure participants leave with practical experience and the capability to contribute meaningfully to the media landscape in their home countries.

For more information, visit DW Akademie.