Voices of Our Future is an online training program in new media, citizen journalism, and empowerment for emerging grassroots women leaders. At the end of the application process, thirty applicants will be selected to become Correspondents and take part in the full five-month long program where they will gain the tools and knowledge to vocalize and actualize their visions for change. Specifically, Correspondents will learn about the principles of practicing ethical citizen journalism; how to write compelling frontline journals, profiles, feature stories, and op-eds; how to use new media to amplify their voices; and the basics of digital storytelling.
Benefits of the program include:
- New media and citizen journalism training via phone and Internet by renowned experts, including program partners The Press Institute and The Op-Ed Project
- Personal coaching sessions and support via phone and Internet from a Vision Mentor
- Opportunities for publication through World Pulse and partner media organizations
- Opportunities to connect with grassroots women leaders from around the globe
- Personal development, including increased self-awareness, confidence, and empowered leadership
- Professional development, including improved skills in new media, citizen journalism, and networking
- Nurturing and collaborative relationships with women, and our allies, across the globe
- Increased visibility for issues and challenges faced by you and your community
- Technology stipend to offset communication costs*
Selection Criteria
During the course of the application process, you will be given a set of learning materials each week (for a total of four (4) weeks) through the Voices of Our Future Applicants Classroom, and asked to complete an associated writing assignment. A panel of staff and selected volunteers, called Listeners, will choose 30 applicants based on the following criteria:
- Completion of all assignments
- Expression of a positive vision for the future and solutions-oriented writing
- Commitment to promote global issues through the eyes of women
- Communication of personal experience as an underrepresented voice in your community, nation, or world; living in a developing country or conflict zone; or facing discrimination on the basis of gender, sexual orientation, race, or social class
- Demonstration of leadership on a personal, community, national, or global level
You will have the opportunity to demonstrate the above criteria through your writing assignments and through your interaction with staff, other applicants, and our online community on PulseWire. We encourage you to reach out during this process and begin to build (or expand!) your own online community and discover the amazing women who are active on PulseWire every day.
How to Apply
The application embodies the spirit of new media. You will need regular and reliable access to the Internet throughout.
Step 1: Go to their website and join the group by September 5, 2011. This group serves as a space where you can ask questions and receive feedback and support from World Pulse staff and other applicants.
Step 2: The actual registration for the evnt begins on September 6, 2011. But make sure you join the group by September 5, 2011.
For more information, and to apply, visit their website by clicking here.
To join the PulseWire group, click here.