2026 Internet Society Peering Fellowship
Job Description
2026 Internet Society Peering Fellowship
In today’s world, where challenges are intertwined, navigating the complexities of the Internet requires a deep understanding of the dynamics of peering and traffic exchange.
The Peering Fellowship supports individuals making Internet access affordable, reliable, and resilient by improving local Internet interconnection infrastructure and advocating for an enabling policy environment that supports a thriving Internet ecosystem.
This engaging six-month program is designed to equip 20 peering and interconnection professionals with skills, knowledge, and tools to address interconnection and peering challenges while maximizing opportunities that grow the Internet and develop the community at peering events.
This fellowship is one of the ways that the Internet Society is supporting affordable and reliable access efforts.
Summary of the 2026 Internet Society Peering Fellowship
- Type: Fellowship
- Locations: Kigali (Rwanda), Mendoza (Argentina), Osaka (Japan)
- Duration: 6 months (in-person event)
- Eligible Countries: Africa, Asia-Pacific (APAC), Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), or the Middle East regions.
- Benefits: Round-trip air ticket, Stipend for additional needs, Hotel accommodation
- Deadline: 17th May, 2026
Requirement for the 2026 Internet Society Peering Fellowship
- Be based or living in Africa, Asia-Pacific (APAC), Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), or the Middle East regions.
- Participants from Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States are encouraged to apply.
- Have at least 3 years of experience
- You’re interested in how the internet connects globally
- You want to grow in technical + policy spaces
Why You Should Consider It
- It’s run by a globally recognized organization
- Focuses on a high-demand technical field
- Offers real-world exposure (not just theory)
- Helps you build a powerful international network
Through the Peering Fellowship, you’ll:
- Learn how Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) operate
- Understand global internet connectivity and peering
- Connect with engineers, policymakers, and industry leaders
- Attend major global networking events
What You Get
- A round-trip air ticket to one peering event.
- Hotel accommodation for the duration of the event.
- A fixed stipend for additional needs for the duration of the event
Peering Events, Location & Dates
- Selected fellows residing in Africa will participate in AfPIF, 18-21 August, Kigali, Rwanda.
- Selected fellows residing in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) will participate in LACNIC/LACNOG, 19-22 October, Mendoza, Argentina
- Selected fellows residing in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) will participate in Peering Asia, 2-6 November, Osaka, Japan.
- Selected fellows residing in the Middle East – TBC