About NextGen@ICANN Program

Shape the Future of the Internet: NextGen@ICANN Program for Young Leaders.

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) is actively seeking the next generation of global Internet policy shapers through its renowned NextGen@ICANN program. This initiative offers a unique opportunity for young, passionate students to dive into the world of Internet governance, contribute to crucial discussions, and potentially become future leaders in the digital landscape.

ICANN, a multi-stakeholder organization responsible for coordinating the Internet’s unique identifiers, emphasizes its commitment to increasing accessibility and encouraging participation among youth who are not yet engaged in the Internet governance ecosystem. The NextGen program serves as a vital pipeline for identifying future community members, empowering them to understand ICANN’s mission and its unique bottom-up, multi-stakeholder model.

“Important work is happening every day at ICANN, and we believe it’s our responsibility to ensure young voices are heard and included,” stated an ICANN spokesperson. “The NextGen program is designed to provide a step-by-step journey into the ICANN ecosystem, equipping students with the knowledge and connections to influence the future of the global Internet.”

Your Gateway to Global Internet Policy:

For students ready to embark on this journey, attending an ICANN Public Meeting as a NextGen@ICANN participant is an ideal starting point. The program offers invaluable support, including:

• Coaching: Guidance and mentorship from experienced individuals within the ICANN community.
• Travel Assistance: Financial support covering economy class airfare, hotel accommodation, and a stipend for expenses during the meeting. (Note: Participants are responsible for their own visa costs and optional travel/health insurance.)

Who Can Apply? Eligibility at a Glance:

The NextGen@ICANN program targets a specific demographic to ensure focused engagement:

• Students: Must be currently enrolled in an undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral program.
• Age: Between 18 and 30 years old at the time of the ICANN meeting. (Students outside this age range may explore the ICANN Fellowship program).
• Location: Must be living and studying in the geographic region where the respective ICANN meeting is being held. ICANN meetings rotate through five regions: Africa, Europe, North America, Latin America, and Asia Pacific.
• Interest: A genuine interest in Internet Governance, the future of the Internet, and topics discussed at ICANN meetings is essential.
• Commitment: Selected participants must be able to attend the entire ICANN meeting and required events, actively participate, and be willing to present a 5-10 minute project related to their studies or ICANN’s work.

NextGen participants come from diverse academic and professional backgrounds, bringing fresh perspectives to critical discussions that shape the Internet.

About Author

Dr. Adebunmi Adeola Akinbo

Dr. Adebunmi Akinbo is a Researcher, Media Psychologist, Brand and Content Expert. He is an Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) Fellow, Member of Association of Cyber Forensics and Threat Investigators (ACFTI), Associate Member of the Computer Professional Registration Council of Nigeria (CPN), and a Senior Member of Chartered Institute of Public Diplomacy & Management (CIPDM), He is passionate for information and solutions for ICT Challenges by the media for the global village.

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