The Internet Society Peering Fellowship 2025 offers a transformative opportunity for mid-career professionals committed to advancing inclusive and reliable internet ecosystems. Designed to foster technical expertise and regional collaboration, this Fully Funded Fellowship brings together 15 selected individuals from across Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America & the Caribbean (LAC) to gain in-depth exposure to internet interconnection and peering practices.

Organized by the Internet Society, a globally recognized nonprofit headquartered in Geneva, this prestigious Technology Fellowship spans six months and includes participation in regional events, virtual learning sessions, and hands-on mentorship by industry experts. The program is structured to equip professionals with actionable knowledge to strengthen internet infrastructure and contribute to sustainable digital development in their regions.

This opportunity is tailored for applicants who are actively working in internet policy, network engineering, or business development within the internet sector and seek Professional Development Opportunities and cross-regional peer learning.

Fellowship Details

Host Organization:
Internet Society, Geneva, Switzerland

Program Locations:

• Nigeria (Africa Peering and Interconnection Forum – AfPIF)

• Philippines (Peering Asia)

• Latin America (LACNOG – location to be confirmed)

Program Duration:
Six months

Fellowship Event Dates:

• AfPIF: 19–21 August 2025

• LACNOG: 6–10 October 2025

• Peering Asia: 4–6 November 2025

Each fellow will be assigned to attend one of these regional peering forums in person.

Program Components

The fellowship offers a blend of in-person experiences and virtual engagements aimed at deepening understanding and strengthening action on peering and internet exchange. Selected fellows will:

• Attend one of the regional peering events hosted in Africa, Asia, or Latin America

• Participate in virtual learning meetings throughout the six-month duration

• Receive mentorship from globally renowned experts in internet infrastructure

• Contribute to regional efforts in promoting accessible, affordable, and high-quality internet

• Join a global alumni network committed to open and inclusive internet development

This program is part of the Internet Society’s broader mission to support sustainable and equitable internet access across the world.

Benefits of the Fellowship

• Fully Funded Fellowship covering all program participation costs

• Round-trip airfare to the assigned regional peering event

• Hotel accommodation for the full duration of the event

• Fixed stipend to cover meals and additional needs

• Certificate of completion upon successful participation

• Access to a global peer network of internet professionals

• One-on-one mentorship with senior experts from the Internet Society

• Professional development in internet policy, interconnection, and infrastructure strategy

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the Internet Society Peering Fellowship 2025, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be actively engaged in internet-related work, particularly in peering, transit, or interconnection

• Be a resident or citizen of a country within the Africa, Asia-Pacific (APAC), or Latin America & Caribbean (LAC) regions

• Possess a valid passport valid until at least June 2026

• Be available to attend one of the designated regional events (AfPIF, LACNOG, or Peering Asia)

• Have at least three years of professional experience in the internet ecosystem (policy, technical, or business)

• Be committed to full engagement throughout the six-month fellowship period

• Have access to reliable internet and necessary digital communication tools

• Proficiency in English is required (as all learning activities and events are conducted in English)

• Applicants from Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States are strongly encouraged to apply

How to Apply

All applications must be submitted online via the official Internet Society Peering Fellowship application portal. The process involves the following steps:

1. Visit the official application page hosted by the Internet Society

2. Complete the online form with accurate personal, academic, and professional details

3. Upload a valid passport and any additional supporting documents

4. Provide at least one professional reference with contact details

5. Respond to short-answer questions on your knowledge and engagement with peering, interconnection, and internet infrastructure

6. Review and agree to the consent and declaration sections

7. Submit your application by the stated deadline

Required Documents

• Valid passport

• Updated resume or CV (with emphasis on internet industry experience)

• Any relevant supporting documentation (e.g., technical certifications, organizational support letters)

Please ensure that all uploaded files are legible and submitted in standard formats such as PDF or DOCX.

Application Deadline

May 2, 2025
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Why Apply?

The Internet Society Peering Fellowship 2025 is more than just an educational opportunity—it’s a gateway to impactful regional leadership in the evolving digital era. As countries increasingly depend on efficient, affordable, and inclusive internet infrastructure, this fellowship builds the technical and strategic capacity of regional experts who are committed to improving connectivity.

Fellows gain access to world-class peering events, professional guidance from international experts, and collaborative learning environments that allow for knowledge exchange, mentorship, and strategic innovation. This is a unique chance to contribute to regional leadership development, strengthen your professional credentials, and shape the future of the internet in your community.

Whether your goal is to influence policy, optimize network performance, or design equitable internet solutions, this program will support your journey and amplify your impact.