Doha Debates Ambassador Program

The application for Cohort 9 of the Doha Debates Ambassador Program is now open!

The deadline to apply is August 24, 2026. Please see below for more details.

Key dates for Doha Debates Ambassador Program, Cohort 9

• July 1 – August 24: Applications open
• September 8 – 11: Candidate interviews
• September 15: Acceptance notifications
• September 22 – December 1: Ambassador program
• December 8: World Majlis virtual event

What is the Doha Debates Ambassador Program?

The Doha Debates Ambassador Program is a virtual convening of young leaders from across the globe who are eager to change how we conduct public discourse.

Over the course of 12 weeks, participants from around the world will develop intercultural communication, systems thinking and debate skills through expert-led training, mentored collaboration and an emphasis on personal storytelling and cross-cultural understanding.

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—and they need a brave, safe space in which to do so. 

At Doha Debates, this space is inspired by the Majlis, a traditional social gathering place to openly discuss important issues. In the Majlis, our ambassadors cultivate community, harness the power and intelligence of intercultural perspectives and ignite their capacity for collective action.

What do participants gain from the program?

Throughout the course of the 12-week program, participants interact with expert facilitators, mentors and each other to practice the skills they’re learning, including:

• facilitating and participating in discussions of complex global issues
• effectively navigating intercultural communication
• articulating and understanding their own worldview and those of others
• effectively telling their own story to engage and motivate people
• developing and exploring personal connections to global issues
• better understanding others and the motivations behind their positions
• cultivating lifelong relationships with an international peer group and learning circle 
• engaging with Doha Debates staff and events, making connections for continued work
• learning how to hold open, productive community discussions at home, school and work

How does the program work?

Ambassadors should expect to devote a total of 4–5 hours each week of the program. They will attend the program synchronously via 90-minute weekly Zoom meetings, and engage asynchronously via the Doha Debates Learning Community. 

The program culminates in a special two-hour event called the World Majlis, in which small groups of ambassadors will apply their new skills to conduct virtual dialogues.

Upon successful completion of the program, ambassadors will receive an official certificate from Doha Debates.

Alumni of the program are invited to stay engaged with Doha Debates through events, conversations, workshops, debates and more. They may also be selected to serve as mentors for future cohorts.

Am I eligible?

Eligible candidates for the Doha Debates Ambassador Program must:

• complete the three-step application process by August 24, 2026.
• be between the ages of 18–26 at the start of the program on September 22, 2026.
• be able to access reliable internet for videoconferencing.
• be a fluent English speaker.
• be available for all Zoom meetings every Tuesday at 6:00 p.m. AST from September 22 – December 1, 2026.

How do I apply?

The application is rigorous because the program is in high demand! All applicants must complete the steps below to be considered.

• STEP ONE: Complete the Introduction to the Majlis Course in our Doha Debates Learning Community to earn your Majlis Master badge. NOTE: Applicants who have already completed the course in previous years must retake it to be considered for Cohort 9.
  
• STEP TWO: Complete the short application form by August 24, 2026 at 12:00 a.m. AST. You will receive an email with your official badge, and the link to the application form. This happens only after you complete the Introduction to the Majlis course. In the form, you will be asked for some basic information, as well as to upload a personal video introducing yourself and reflecting on the course.
  NOTE: You may not officially apply until you complete the course and earn your badge.
• STEP THREE: Finalists will be invited to a virtual group interview between September 8–11, 2026. All finalists will be notified of their acceptance status by September 15, 2026.

Begin by joining the Doha Debates Learning Community. 

Questions? Please contact us at [email protected].

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