IOC Dakar 2026 Young Reporters Programme

The next edition of the Young Reporters Programme, which will run during the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games (YOG). Sixteen aspiring sports journalists from around the world will be selected to take part in this immersive training experience, and develop their skills in a real Games-time environment.

The IOC Young Reporters Programme is a long-standing initiative by the International Olympic Committee aimed at developing the next generation of sports journalists. It was first introduced at the inaugural Youth Olympic Games (YOG) in Singapore in 2010 and since then it has been a successful feature of each YOG edition. The programme is run by IOC Media Operations.

For each edition the IOC Young Reporters Programme selects young professionals (aged 18 to 24 years old) from around the world and provides them with hands-on training and mentorship and equips them with the skills needed to cover major sporting events, including the Olympic Games. During the YOG all participants receive intensive training in sports journalism, including writing, photography, broadcasting and social media. The participants are mentored by leading professionals in the sports media industry. The course programme looks at what makes a good human interest story, how to produce news stories under tight deadlines, when to look for background detail and why accuracy and fairness remain the cornerstones of reporting.

Summary

1. Application Deadline: 30 November 2025
2. Value: Fully funded (Airfare, accommodation, meals, tuition, uniform)
3. Type: Entrepreneurs
4. Sponsor: International Olympic Committee (IOC)
5. Eligible Countries: All countries

Eligibility Criteria for IOC Dakar 2026 Young Reporters Programme

Apply if you are:

1. Aged between 21 and 25 at the time of the programme (born from 2001 to 2005).
2. Proficient in English language.
3. A student or a young professional in journalism/photography.

Documents Required for Application

1. Applicants are required to complete the following on the online portal
2. CV (Resume)
3. Motivation Letter (1 page, font size 12, double-spaced)
4. Copy of Passport
5. Certificate of Enrollment (Only Applicable to Student)
6. Two Reference letters with contact details of the reference (professional references only)
7. Portfolio
8. Proof of Published Work (Only if Applicable)
9. Photo of Applicant (The photo should be of the applicant only, not with a group)

Benefits of IOC Dakar 2026 Young Reporters Programme

1. The IOC will cover the cost of economy airfares, all meals, twin-share accommodation and full tuition from experienced mentors and coached.
2. Participants will also receive uniform from the IOC.

How to Apply

For more details, visit IOC Dakar Youth Olympic Games (YOG) Young Reporters Programme webpage.

Application Deadline

November 30, 2025

Application Link(s)

• Apply for IOC Dakar 2026 Young Reporters Programme