Earth Journalism Network Fully Funded Our Ocean Conference 2026 Fellowship @Unknown

The Our Ocean Conference 2026 Fellowship presents a unique opportunity for journalists to report on some of the most urgent environmental challenges affecting the world’s oceans.

Organized by the Earth Journalism Network (EJN), this fully funded fellowship supports selected journalists to attend and cover the global Our Ocean Conference 2026, which will take place in Mombasa from June 16–18, 2026.

This fellowship is part of EJN’s broader mission to strengthen environmental journalism by equipping reporters with the tools, knowledge, and access needed to inform the public on critical global issues.

About the Our Ocean Conference

The Our Ocean Conference is a high-level international gathering that brings together governments, civil society, researchers, and private sector actors to advance solutions for ocean sustainability.

The 2026 conference marks a significant milestone as it will be the first edition hosted in Africa, focusing on the theme:
“Our Ocean, Our Heritage, Our Future.”

Key focus areas of the conference include:

• Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)
• Sustainable fisheries
• Marine pollution
• Climate change
• Sustainable blue economy
• Maritime security

The event aims to build on global progress, including commitments made at previous conferences and international agreements such as the High Seas Treaty, which seeks to protect biodiversity in international waters.

About the Fellowship Program

The fellowship will support five selected journalists to attend the full conference and report on its outcomes. Fellows will travel to Mombasa, arriving on June 14 and departing on June 19, 2026.

The program includes a comprehensive schedule designed to enhance reporting quality and impact, including:

• A pre-conference virtual workshop
• An in-person Orientation Day with expert briefings and field visits
• Daily on-site briefings during the conference
• Interviews with high-level policymakers and stakeholders
• Editorial mentorship and feedback from experienced media trainers

Fellows will also collaborate with a diverse cohort of journalists, enabling knowledge exchange and networking across regions and media platforms.

Fellowship Benefits

EJN provides full financial and logistical support to ensure fellows can focus entirely on reporting. This includes:

• Round-trip economy-class airfare
• Accommodation and meals
• Travel medical insurance
• Ground transportation
• Visa cost reimbursement
• Daily per diem for expenses
• Assistance with press accreditation

In addition, fellows receive access to technical resources, editorial support, and training, helping them produce high-quality, impactful stories.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the fellowship, applicants must:

• Be a professional journalist affiliated with an established media outlet
• Report from a coastal country
• Have prior experience covering ocean or environmental issues
• Provide recent published work (within the last 12 months)
• Submit a letter of support from an editor or media organization
• Demonstrate strong English language proficiency
• Be available to attend the full program in Mombasa

Freelancers are eligible but must secure a letter confirming publication or broadcast of their stories.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on:

• Proven experience in environmental or ocean reporting
• Commitment to journalism and continued coverage of these topics
• Quality and relevance of submitted work samples
• Strength of the proposed story ideas for the conference
• Support from a recognized media outlet

EJN also prioritizes building a diverse cohort, representing different regions, media formats, and perspectives.

Reporting Expectations

Selected fellows are required to produce at least two in-depth stories or analyses during or shortly after the fellowship. These stories should:

• Be published or broadcast by their affiliated media outlet
• Focus on key issues discussed at the conference
• Adhere to professional editorial standards

Fellows are encouraged to produce additional content, including daily updates or social media posts, to expand the reach and impact of their reporting.

All published work must acknowledge EJN’s support and may be republished or shared by EJN and its partners.

Why This Fellowship Matters

Oceans play a critical role in sustaining life on Earth, providing over half of the world’s oxygen and supporting the livelihoods of more than three billion people. Despite their importance, ocean issues often receive limited media coverage, particularly in regions most affected by environmental challenges.

This fellowship aims to bridge that gap by empowering journalists to:

• Report on complex environmental issues with accuracy and depth
• Increase public awareness of ocean conservation
• Hold decision-makers accountable
• Amplify voices from affected communities

By supporting informed and impactful storytelling, EJN contributes to global efforts to protect marine ecosystems and promote sustainable development.

Application Details

• Deadline: April 7, 2026 (11:59 PM Pacific/Niue time)
• Location: Mombasa, Kenya
• Conference Dates: June 16–18, 2026

Applicants must submit their applications through the official EJN portal and ensure all required documents are included before the deadline. Late applications will not be considered.

Final Thoughts

The Our Ocean Conference 2026 Fellowship is a valuable opportunity for journalists dedicated to environmental reporting. By combining financial support, expert training, and access to a major global event, the fellowship enables participants to produce impactful stories that inform and inspire action.

For journalists passionate about ocean conservation and global sustainability, this program offers a chance to elevate their reporting, expand their networks, and contribute to meaningful change on a global scale.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization that is hiring. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs 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.

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