The Internet Society Peering Fellowship 2025 is a groundbreaking opportunity for Internet professionals across Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), and the Asia-Pacific (APAC) regions. Designed to bridge gaps in connectivity and infrastructure, this six-month, hybrid fellowship aims to create a network of skilled peering advocates and technical experts who can lead the charge in transforming local and regional Internet infrastructure.
Peering, which refers to the exchange of data directly between Internet networks, is a critical element in making the Internet faster, more reliable, and more affordable. In many parts of the world, particularly in developing countries, weak peering arrangements contribute to expensive and unstable Internet access. By improving peering arrangements through collaboration, training, and advocacy, the Internet Society is taking a practical step toward its broader mission: to ensure that the Internet is open, globally connected, secure, and trustworthy for everyone.
The fellowship combines technical and policy-related content with real-world networking opportunities. Through a combination of virtual learning and in-person participation in a major regional peering forum, fellows gain in-depth insights into how Internet infrastructure works and how it can be improved for the public good. The program is built for change-makers—those who are passionate about reshaping digital access and strengthening the Internet’s resilience in their regions.
This unique blend of practical learning, professional networking, and policy development positions the fellowship as one of the most comprehensive and influential programs available to Internet professionals from developing and emerging markets.
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Requirements/Eligibility
Applicants to the Internet Society Peering Fellowship must meet a set of well-defined criteria, designed to ensure the program reaches professionals best positioned to make an impact. Here are the requirements:
Geographic Eligibility
Must be a resident of one of the following regions:
- Africa
- Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC)
- Asia-Pacific (APAC)
Experience and Background
Must have a minimum of three years of experience in the Internet sector. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Network engineering
- Internet Exchange Point (IXP) operations
- Internet Service Provider (ISP) management
- Network architecture
- Public policy and digital infrastructure
Language and Communication
Must be proficient in English, as all program materials, sessions, and events will be conducted in English.
Availability
Must be available for:
- Weekly online learning sessions (approximately 4 hours/week)
- Live virtual meetings between 11:00 and 15:00 UTC
- One in-person peering event in either Africa, Latin America, or Asia
Technical Requirements
Must have reliable broadband Internet access and the necessary hardware to fully participate in virtual activities.
Travel Eligibility
Must possess a valid passport (expiring no earlier than June 2026) to attend the in-person component.
Special Consideration
Candidates from Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States are strongly encouraged to apply.
This is not just a program for those in technical roles—professionals involved in Internet governance, infrastructure advocacy, and digital policy development are also welcome to apply.
Duration / Stipend
The Peering Fellowship lasts six months, from June to November 2025. It includes a balance of virtual learning, project collaboration, and in-person exposure. Here’s how it’s structured:
Virtual Component
Weekly webinars, mentorship sessions, and technical workshops
Interactive modules on topics like:
- Peering and interconnection fundamentals
- Internet routing
- IXP design and sustainability
- Policy advocacy strategies
- Regional case studies
In-Person Peering Event
Each fellow will attend one major regional peering event:
- AfPIF (Africa Peering and Interconnection Forum) – 19–21 August 2025
- LACNOG (Latin America and Caribbean Network Operators Group) – 6–10 October 2025
- Peering Asia – 4–6 November 2025
All travel-related expenses including airfare, accommodation, meals, and registration fees will be fully covered by the Internet Society. Fellows will also receive a modest stipend to support incidental expenses related to participation.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the Internet Society Peering Fellowship 2025 is 2 May 2025.
Late applications will not be considered. Since this is a highly competitive program, applicants are encouraged to submit early and ensure all required documentation is accurate and complete.
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