In a region shaped by both challenge and change, voices like yours matter more than ever. The YaLa Academy for Citizen Journalism empowers young people across the Middle East and North Africa to become digital storytellers, media activists, and advocates for a better future. Through hands-on training and meaningful cross-cultural dialogue, we’re building a powerful network of citizen journalists who are tech-savvy, socially aware, and ready to lead.

At YaLa, we believe in the power of stories—and in the people who tell them. Social media and digital platforms have transformed how we connect, offering everyday citizens the chance to raise their voices and shine a light on the issues that matter. But with that power comes responsibility.

That’s why we created the YaLa Citizen Journalism Program—to give you the tools, confidence, and ethical grounding to tell your story with clarity, purpose, and impact.

Over the course of three months, you’ll take part in an exciting and interactive online journey hosted by the Aileen Getty School of Citizen Journalism. The core of the program is a series of video lectures from top international journalists and media experts—from outlets like Al Jazeera, CNN, AP, National Geographic, and more—covering essential topics in the world of journalism and digital media.

These expert sessions are supplemented by live Zoom meetings and workshops led by the YaLa Young Leaders team, where you’ll dive deeper into each topic, take part in group discussions, and develop your practical skills in a supportive, diverse learning environment.

Topics include; Storytelling and journalistic writing, podcasting, fake news, media literacy, and critical thinking, social media strategy and digital activism, Peace, gender, identity, and culture in the MENA region.

But the course is about more than media skills—it’s about people and the meaningful connections they foster. You’ll join a diverse group of peers from Palestine, Israel, and across the MENA region. Together, you’ll explore each other’s cultures, share experiences, and build lasting friendships rooted in respect, openness, and shared purpose.

Each week includes one expert video lecture and one live Zoom session with the YaLa team. You’ll also complete weekly assignments and collaborate on creative storytelling projects. To complete the course, you must attend sessions regularly, participate actively, and submit a final project—a written article, podcast, or video

documentary—which we’ll help you publish and promote. Outstanding projects will be featured on YaLa Press, our official media platform.

Are You Ready to Tell Your Story?

This is your chance to develop your voice, build your skills, and be part of something bigger. Join us and become a part of a regional movement using media to promote peace, understanding, and social change.

📩 For more information: youngleadersyala@gmail.com
⚠️ Please note: Due to high interest, only selected participants will be notified by mid-May.