Doha Debates Ambassador Program

What is the Doha Debates Ambassador Program?

The Doha Debates Ambassador Program is an expertly mentored virtual convening of young leaders from across the globe who are eager to change how we conduct public discourse, solve problems and build a healthy, equitable future through majlis-style debate. 

Our ambassadors are a highly selective cohort of truth-seeking, intellectually curious young change-makers from diverse backgrounds. They are each committed to engaging in challenging conversations about critical global issues in an attempt to find common ground and generate sustainable solutions that benefit everyone. They are the trailblazers who will bring about much-needed global change through skilled dialogue, critical thinking and inclusive, flexible mindsets.

Through the program, participants cultivate a systems-thinking approach to understanding the current global problems that are most important to them, gaining the ability to see interconnections and analyze complex dynamics. They learn to value and embrace diverse worldviews, especially those at the margins, which play a critical role in seeking inclusive, fair solutions.

Why did we create the Doha Debates Ambassador Program?

In order to accelerate positive global change, we need all hands on deck. Youth from all around the world need to collaborate and think differently than prior generations. They need a brave space like the Majlis, where they can cultivate community, advance consensus-building skills, leverage the power and intelligence of intercultural perspectives and ignite our capacity for collective action.

What do ambassadors gain from participating?

Throughout the course of the program, participants interact weekly with expert facilitators, mentors and each other to practice the skills they are learning. A combination of systems thinking, majlis-style discussion, storytelling and consensus building helps participants learn how to:

• facilitate and participate in discussions of complex global issues
• effectively navigate intercultural communication
• articulate and understand their own worldview and those of others
• effectively tell their own story to engage people with an issue
• develop and explore personal connections to global issues
• better understand people and the motivations behind their positions
• cultivate lifelong relationships with a diverse international peer group and learning circle 
• engage with Doha Debates staff and events, making connections for continued work
• learn how to hold open, productive community discussion events at home, school and work (in person and virtually)

Follow us at @DohaDebates on all social platforms to be the first to learn how to apply for future cohorts.