Program

The AU Media Fellowship Programme is a unique opportunity for African media professionals to enhance their skills, knowledge, and professional growth. Apply now . The AU Media Fellowship empowers African media pros, journalists, and creators to tell development stories using emerging tech. Launched in 2022 by the AU's Information and Communication Directorate, this program equips African storytellers and journalists to use media for citizen education and empowerment. It fills knowledge gaps and advances Africa's development vision, Agenda 2063. Eligibility Criteria Candidates for the AU Media Fellowship programme must be nationals of the African Union Member States. The Significance of Mentorship Central to the AU Media Fellowship is connecting fellows with industry experts who mentor and guide them throughout the program. This document outlines the roles and responsibilities of these mentors in the fellowship. Scope of Work Mentors will be paired with individual fellows or groups of fellows, contingent on their expertise and the focus areas of the fellows. The mentorship period will coincide with the duration of the fellowship, typically extending for 12 months. The specific duties of the mentors encompass: Guiding the assigned fellow(s) based on their areas of expertise and experience. Assisting the fellows in formulating clear goals and objectives for their fellowship projects. Conducting regular virtual or face-to-face meetings with the fellows to discuss their progress, challenges, and provide feedback. Sharing industry insights, best practices, and practical advice for media landscape navigation. Offering constructive feedback on project deliverables to ensure quality and relevance. Facilitating networking and connections with industry professionals and stakeholders. Enhancing professional skills like research, storytelling, technology use, and communication. Monitoring progress and giving timely improvement recommendations. Participating in mentorship training and workshops organized by the AU Media Fellowship program, as needed. Qualifications and Experience A minimum of 10 years of experience and expertise in the media industry, journalism, or content creation. Profound knowledge of emerging media technologies and trends. Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills. Demonstrated ability to mentor and guide budding professionals. Familiarity with African media, related sectors, and development matters. Commitment to consistent mentorship meetings and supporting fellows during the program. Ability to provide practical insights and industry expertise – an added advantage wherein practical knowledge and expertise can be offered to Fellows on topics including, but not limited to, business planning, financial planning, resource management for effective operations (on-site/in the field), research undertaking (for content creation, news, etc.), critical thinking, effective grant writing and applications, digital asset management for profitability, personal/business brand management, understanding your audience/market as a content creator/media player, effective public sector/development communication, technology and its impact on communication, partnering for success, journalism/content creation in the age of Artificial Intelligence (A.I), scriptwriting/copywriting, and disinformation/misinformation in the digital age. Reporting and Coordination Mentors report to AU Media Fellowship coordinators, engaging in routine reviews and evaluations. They offer progress updates and feedback on fellows’ performance and mentoring experience. Duration Mentoring coincides with the 12-month AU Media Fellowship. Mentors receive a stipend as agreed, and travel expenses, including accommodation, follow AU Media Fellowship guidelines. This applies to both the African Union and program partners. Application Process To apply, submit a CV and a concise statement of interest showcasing relevant expertise and experience. Mentors chosen for alignment with AU Media Fellowship goals, qualifications, and expertise. Submit applications via email with subject "Mentor Application: AU Media Fellowship 2.0" to AUMediaFellowship@africa-union.org. for more info do follow / piggybank.ng FAQs Who is eligible to apply for the AU Media Fellowship Programme?Candidates for the AU Media Fellowship programme must be nationals of the African Union Member States.What is the duration of the mentorship engagement?Mentoring coincides with the 12-month AU Media Fellowship duration.What are the qualifications required to be a mentor in the AU Media Fellowship Programme?Mentors should have a minimum of 10 years of experience in the media industry, journalism, or content creation, profound knowledge of emerging media technologies and trends, exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, and a demonstrated ability to mentor and guide emerging professionals.How can I apply to be a mentor in the AU Media Fellowship Programme?Interested individuals should submit their applications, including a CV and a brief statement of interest, via email with the subject line “Mentor Application: AU Media Fellowship 2.0” to AUMediaFellowship@africa-union.org.What are the responsibilities of the mentors in the AU Media Fellowship Programme?Mentors are responsible for guiding the assigned fellow(s), assisting in setting clear goals and objectives, conducting regular meetings, sharing industry insights, offering constructive feedback, encouraging networking opportunities, supporting the development of professional skills, monitoring progress, and participating in mentorship training and workshops.