Doha Debates Ambassador Program – Applications Open for the Eighth Cohort The Doha Debates Ambassador Program is now accepting applications for its 2026 cohort, offering an exceptional opportunity for young global leaders to strengthen their dialogue, systems-thinking, and consensus-building skills. The program invites applicants from around the world to join a highly selective group of emerging changemakers committed to fostering healthier, more equitable public discourse. The application deadline is December 15, 2025, and selected participants will take part in a fully virtual, expertly mentored program centered around Majlis-style debate and intercultural engagement. About the Program The Ambassador Program is a flagship initiative of Doha Debates, designed to cultivate a new generation of leaders capable of advancing meaningful dialogue on complex global issues. Participants are individuals aged 18–26 who demonstrate curiosity, courage, and a commitment to engaging with diverse worldviews. Through the Majlis model—an approach emphasizing openness, listening, and collective problem-solving—the program nurtures a culture of dialogue capable of bridging divides and generating inclusive solutions. Ambassadors work closely with Dr. Brandon Ferderer, an expert in facilitation and intercultural communication, and Jennifer Geist, a specialist in systems thinking. Together, they guide participants through processes that uncover interconnections, confront assumptions, and illuminate the deeper dynamics shaping global challenges. Why the Program Exists Doha Debates created this initiative to empower youth to think differently, collaborate courageously, and challenge polarized forms of discourse that hinder collective action. The program provides a rare “brave space” where young leaders can practice new forms of communication and community-building. It supports an environment where emerging changemakers can engage in hard conversations, embrace diverse perspectives, and cultivate the skills needed to build consensus across ideological, cultural, and political differences. What Ambassadors Gain Throughout the program, participants engage in weekly sessions, small-group collaboration, and reflective practice. The experience equips them to: Facilitate and participate in nuanced discussions on complex global issues Navigate intercultural communication with empathy and clarity Articulate their own worldviews and understand others’ perspectives Use storytelling to motivate and mobilize communities Build deep personal connections to global issues and analyze their root causes Form lasting relationships with a diverse, international cohort Engage with Doha Debates staff and access future opportunities Learn how to organize inclusive community dialogue events in their own local contexts These skills prepare ambassadors for leadership in civic engagement, international relations, community organizing, policy work, and social innovation. Program Format and Time Commitment The Ambassador Program consists of two interconnected parts: Part One: Community of Practice (January 20 – February 10, 2026) Successful applicants begin in a four-week Community of Practice (CoP) focused on Majlis-style debate, communication, and consensus-building. Participants engage through: Weekly Zoom meetings (4 sessions, Tuesdays, 7–8:30 p.m. Doha time) Weekly discussion forums on the Participate platform Email and WhatsApp communication Time commitment: 3–4 hours per weekUpon completion, participants earn a Doha Debates CoP credential. Part Two: Ambassador Program (February 17 – April 7, 2026) Participants who fully complete the CoP advance to an eight-week applied learning program. Activities include: Weekly Zoom meetings (8 sessions) Weekly Participate platform discussions Ongoing communication and collaboration Time commitment: 4–5 hours per weekAt the end, ambassadors receive an official certificate and access to expanded opportunities with Doha Debates. Eligibility Requirements Candidates must be: 18–26 years old by January 20, 2026 Fluent in English Able to access reliable internet Fully committed to attending all 12 virtual meetings Preference is given to applicants who complete the “Introduction to the Majlis” course on the Participate platform. Important Application Details The application includes general questions and three short essays. All submissions must be complete upon submission. Applicants must confirm availability for Tuesday sessions at 7:00–8:30 p.m. Doha time. AI assistance is not permitted for application responses. Deadline: December 15, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. (local time). Key Dates December 15, 2025 – Application deadline January 6–8, 2026 – Interviews January 13, 2026 – Notifications January 20–February 10, 2026 – Community of Practice February 17–April 7, 2026 – Ambassador Program Apply Now Interested applicants should submit their materials before the deadline: APPLY HERE (by December 15, 2025) For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hiring organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.