Africa Uncensored and DW Akademie are excited to announce the call for mentors and trainers to take part in the AI in the Newsroom Fellowship, a six-month intensive program designed to bridge the gap between journalism and emerging technologies.
We are looking for mentors and trainers who don’t just talk about the “future of AI,” but who can roll up their sleeves and help fellows solve real-world problems.
The Role
We are looking for individuals to fill two primary roles:
- Technical Trainers: Lead hands-on, deep-dive workshops on specific modules focusing on applying AI tools towards problem-solving in journalistic contexts, underpinned by product development to build practical solutions for newsrooms. The initial training will take place from 9 to 12 June 2026, and further training sessions are planned monthly from July to November 2026.
- Project Mentors: Provide 1-on-1 guidance to fellows as they develop their projects, helping them navigate technical roadblocks and ensure journalistic rigour, practicality and applicability in the Kenyan newsroom. Mentors are expected to meet with fellows once a week as needed, and to submit monthly progress reports.
What We Are Looking For
We need practitioners with proven expertise in:
- Data Extraction: Automated scraping of complex websites and handling “unfriendly” data formats.
- Document Intelligence: Using AI to process thousands of documents for data and insights.
- Verification & OSINT: Advanced geolocation, reverse image search, and digital footprint analysis.
- Editorial AI: Implementing AI to automate newsroom workflows without compromising ethical standards.
- Investigation Management: Guiding large-scale, data-heavy investigative projects from conception to publication.
Why Join Us?
- Shape the Industry: Directly influence how AI is integrated into regional newsrooms.
- Collaborative Network: Connect with a high-level cohort of investigative editors and tech-forward journalists.
- Honorarium: Trainers and mentors will be compensated for their time and expertise.
How to Express Interest
If you have a track record of using technology to break stories or build newsroom tools, we want to hear from you. Please fill this form with your details, including a brief portfolio or a summary of your technical expertise. Submit your application by 17 April 2026.
Please include:
- Your professional portfolio.
- A training/mentorship plan
- 2–3 specific technical areas you are qualified to lead.
- Your availability for remote or in-person sessions between April and December 2026.
Your data will only be used for the selection process of the AI in the Newsroom fellowship and will not be shared with third parties without your consent.
For inquiries, contact info [at] africauncensored.net. Please note that applications sent to this email address instead of through the form will not be considered.