Climate Page - CNN Academy

Global South Climate
Storytelling Program

2023 was the hottest year ever recorded. Devastating heatwaves, extreme weather events, and crippling droughts leave no corner of the globe untouched. However, it is the global south that bears the brunt of these catastrophic impacts.

In a groundbreaking collaboration, CNN Academy and the Rockefeller Foundation united to act. After an extensive application process, CNN Academy selected 16 journalists from across the global south dedicated to shedding light on the profound effects of the climate crisis within their home countries.

The CNN Academy Global South cohort took part in the 2023 Climate Storytelling Simulation in Abu Dhabi before heading back to their home countries where they will produce a compelling short documentary spotlighting the impact of the climate crisis. The documentaries will be entirely shot and edited by the participants.

The Rockefeller program has been an incredible experience! I truly appreciated getting to connect with everyone in the group and learn from all the amazing lecturers. Transitioning into the simulation was a bit of an adjustment. I had gotten comfortable with the slower pace and dynamics of the group setting, but the simulation threw me into a whole new world. It taught me so much that I will be taking with me into real life. It gave me a safe space to practice and try new things without the fear of making mistakes. I'm confident that the skills I learned will help me navigate the challenges of the real world.

Pamela Elizarrarás Acitores

Mexico

At CNN Academy, we learned to hone the art of storytelling and journalism, recognizing its pivotal role as the guardian of truth in our ever-evolving world.

Ben Pama

South Africa

In the CNN Academy simulation, I was not only challenged to push my boundaries but inspired to inspire others, recognizing the imperative to champion diversity and representation, breaking free from blanket narratives in the dynamic field of media.

Ledama Masidza

Kenya

It was enlightening, challenging and immersive. I really enjoyed the immersive learning experience.

Sarah Sapsanamma Rai

Nepal

A wake up call on how important soft skills are, a chance to meet people from all around the world who could be future colleagues/collaborators, the chance to put lessons into practice with advice from CNN journalists.

Salomé Saldarriaga

Colombia

I have gained world class skills and knowledge of how journalism systems work at a global scale.

Wendy Omanga

Kenya

The Rockefeller Foundation and
CNN Academy Collaboration

The purpose of this initiative is to empower journalists, content creators, and communicators with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively report on climate-related issues affecting their regions. This project is part of the Rockefeller Foundation and CNN Academy’s commitment to amplifying diverse voices and promoting accurate and impactful climate reporting.

The Rockefeller Foundation provided $200k in funding for this program. The money, which can only be used by CNN Academy for this program, will fund expenses related to the development and delivery of the program, associated staffing costs and funding travel and accommodation costs for the 15 selected participants.

Global South Climate Storytelling Program

The Rockefeller Foundation and CNN Academy Collaboration

The CNN Academy Global South Storytellers

CNN academy

More than forty years ago, CNN reinvented modern journalism. Now, your organization can benefit from decades of experience and innovation from the world’s news leader.

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Global South Climate
Storytelling Program

The Rockefeller Foundation and
CNN Academy Collaboration