EJN Our Ocean Conference 2026 Fellowships: Fully Funded for Ocean Journalists

Are you a journalist passionate about ocean conservation? The Internews’ Earth Journalism Network (EJN) Our Ocean Conference 2026 Fellowships offer a fully funded chance to cover a major global event in Mombasa, Kenya. This opportunity lets experienced reporters dive into key ocean issues and connect with leaders from around the world.

What Is the EJN Our Ocean Conference Fellowship?

The fellowship targets professional journalists who cover ocean topics. It supports coverage of the 11th Our Ocean Conference, set for June 16-18, 2026, in Mombasa. This marks the first time the event happens in Africa, with the theme “Our Ocean, Our Heritage, Our Future.”

The conference spotlights six main areas: Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), sustainable fisheries, marine pollution, sustainable blue economy, climate change, and maritime security. Kenya will highlight its goals, like boosting youth ocean leaders and fighting illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. Fellows will report on these talks and build skills through training.

Key Dates and Schedule

Plan to arrive in Mombasa on June 14 and leave on June 19. The main conference runs June 16-18. On June 15, join an EJN orientation day with training on conference topics, guest speakers, and a field trip. Before the event, attend a virtual workshop to meet others, plan stories, and get resources.

Who Can Apply? Eligibility Rules

You must meet these criteria to qualify:

• Work as a professional journalist from or for a media house in a coastal country.
• Show past reporting on ocean issues, such as IUU fishing, MPAs, blue economy, or sustainable fisheries.
• Explain the stories you plan to chase at the conference.
• Speak English well.
• Share a current CV or resume.
• Get a support letter from an editor, producer, or supervisor confirming your work will air or publish in an established outlet. Freelancers need a letter from their target media.
• Submit recent work samples on ocean topics, published in the last 12 months. Include bylines and English summaries if not in English. Upload files or links.

Benefits and Support Provided

EJN covers almost everything to let you focus on reporting:

• Economy-class round-trip airfare.
• Hotel stay, all meals, and ground transport.
• Travel medical insurance.
• Help with press accreditation and logistics.
• Visa fee reimbursement (you handle the application).
• Daily per diem for extra costs.

You also get pre-event tools like info packs and expert advice to sharpen your coverage.

How to Apply

Submit your application by April 7, 2026. Check the official EJN webpage for the form and full details. Learn more about the conference at Our Ocean Kenya. This is your shot to report from the front lines of ocean action.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the EJN Our Ocean Conference Fellowship?

It is a fully funded program for professional journalists to cover the 11th Our Ocean Conference in Mombasa, Kenya, from June 16-18, 2026, focusing on ocean issues like marine protected areas and sustainable fisheries.

Who can apply for the fellowship?

Professional journalists from coastal countries with experience reporting on ocean topics, good English skills, and support from a media outlet qualify.

What benefits does the fellowship provide?

EJN covers economy-class flights, hotel, meals, transport, insurance, visa fees, and per diem, plus training and resources for reporting.

How and when do I apply?

Submit your application by April 7, 2026, via the official EJN webpage with your CV, work samples, story plans, and a support letter.