Doha Debates Ambassador Program

Key Dates for Doha Debates Ambassador Cohort 5

Applications open: June 15 – July 25, 2024 at 12:00 a.m. (applicant’s local time)
Acceptance notifications: On or around August 5, 2024
Program dates: September 3 – November 27, 2024

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, ambassadors 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, ambassadors 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)

How does the program work?

Our fifth cohort of ambassadors will meet weekly for 90-minute virtual sessions from September 3 to November 27, 2024. These sessions are guided by facilitation and intercultural communication expert Dr. Brandon Ferderer and systems-thinking specialist Jennifer Geist, along with various international guest speakers.

In addition to these 12 synchronous sessions, ambassadors form an asynchronous community of practice through the online platform Participate. In total, ambassadors should expect to spend three to five hours each week engaging with the program and each other. 

Upon completion of the program, ambassadors earn a certificate from Doha Debates. Alumni are invited to stay engaged with Doha Debates through events, conversations, workshops, debates and more, and may also serve as mentors for future cohorts.

Am I eligible for the program?

Eligible candidates for the Doha Debates Ambassador Program must be:

• Between the ages of 18-26 at the start of the program, September 3, 2024
• Able to access reliable internet for videoconferencing
• Fluent in English

How do I apply?

There is a two-step application process:

1. Complete the Introduction to the Majlis course on Participate. Create a (free) account on Participate, our community platform, and earn your Majlis Master credential before applying to the program. 
2. Complete the application by July 25, 2024 at 12:00 a.m. (your local time).* 

*No deadline exceptions and no AI assistance permitted.

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