By Nneka Nwogwugwu
The Internet Society has opened applications for its Peering Fellowship Program to support individuals making Internet access affordable, reliable, and resilient by improving local Internet interconnection infrastructure and advocating for an enabling policy environment that supports a thriving Internet ecosystem.
This inclusive six-month program will equip 15 professionals with the knowledge and skillset to tackle interconnection and peering challenges while maximising opportunities that grow the Internet and develop the community at peering events. This fellowship is one of the ways that the Internet Society is supporting affordable and reliable access efforts.
Programme Benefits
- Join a network of knowledgeable Internet leaders who continue to develop their skills and competencies, actively support Internet Society’s mission, and advocate for an open, globally connected, secure, and trustworthy Internet.
- Deepen your subject expertise through training from experienced peering professionals
- Benefit from sharing networks, learning from each other’s approaches, working together, and forging relationships that will significantly enhance peering and interconnection efforts in your community, country, and region during relevant peering events.
- Contribute to making Internet access affordable, reliable, and resilient by improving local Internet interconnection infrastructure and advocating for an enabling policy environment that supports a thriving Internet ecosystem.
- Travel support for one peering event:
- A round-trip air ticket to one peering event.
- Hotel accommodation for the duration of the event.
- A fixed stipend for additional needs.
Program Specifications
- Virtual content coverage: Participate in online sessions and collaborative forums.
- Attend an in-person peering event: Engage firsthand with the global peering community.
- Technical and advocacy-based training: Grow expertise in routing, IXPs, and Internet policy.
- Engagement with industry professionals: Forge connections that broaden your regional and global impact.
- Drive local impact: Deliver work that supports peering and interconnection advancements in your country or region.
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates who meet the following are welcome to apply:
- Based in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), Africa, or the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region.
- Have a passport valid until June 2026 to be able to travel to the events:
LAC, valid until April 2026
APAC, valid until June 2026
Africa, valid until February 2026
Are able to attend sessions and travel to one of these events:
AfPIF, 19-21 August 2025
LACNOG, 6-10 October 2025
Peering Asia, 4-6 November 2025
- Have at least 3 years of experience in the Internet industry.
- Be available for virtual meetings between 11:00 and 15:00 UTC.
- Have reliable access to a broadband Internet connection and relevant devices.
- Have a working proficiency level in verbal and written English. (This fellowship will be delivered in English.)
- Be able to commit at least four hours weekly during the course of the six-month experience.
Selection Criteria
Only applicants who submit their applications will be considered for selection:
- Once the application period closes, all submissions will undergo two review stages, each conducted by separate review committees.
- Please note that the review committees will not have access to any applicant demographic information. This means they will not see names, gender, contact details, or any other personal identifiers.
- After the review process is complete, they will contact all candidates to inform them whether they have been selected to move forward with their application.
Apply via the official website.
The Internet Society has launched its Peering Fellowship Program to enhance affordable, reliable, and resilient Internet access through improved interconnection infrastructure and supportive policy advocacy. The six-month program will select 15 professionals for training in tackling interconnection and peering challenges, increasing opportunities for Internet growth. Participants will join a network of Internet leaders, engage in virtual and in-person events, and receive travel support for attending peering events.
Applicants must be based in Latin America, the Caribbean, Africa, or the Asia-Pacific region, have at least three years of Internet industry experience, and proficiency in English. The program requires a weekly commitment of at least four hours and will be delivered in English. Selection involves a two-stage review process without access to applicant demographic information, ensuring privacy and impartiality. Applications can be submitted via the Internet Society's official website.
