CNN Academy returns to further boost training and development of UAE and Emirati journalists

Program supported by the Creative Lab, Talent Development Unit, Creative Media Authority

Abu Dhabi, May 25: Applications open today (25 May) for the third CNN Academy Abu Dhabi, an initiative supported by the Creative Media Authority (CMA) to empower and train future journalists.

With COP28, the 2023 United Nations climate change conference, taking place in the United Arab Emirates this December, the 12-week CNN Academy Abu Dhabi program will focus on climate storytelling. Fellows will learn from CNN’s top reporters how to engage audiences with one of the world’s most pressing issues.

CNN is working with Creative Labs, part of the talent development arm of the Creative Media Authority, Content Champions Abu Dhabi, to help identify talented applicants from across the UAE for the programme.

HE Khalfan Al Mazrouei, Acting Director General of the Creative Media Authority, said: “CNN Academy Abu Dhabi plays a vital role in combining technical and hands-on training with renowned media companies – creating a unique A coveted opportunity.The goal of training programs such as CNN Academy Abu Dhabi is to develop individuals capable of full-time employment.As part of the CMA’s mandate to develop media industry skills and Well-known and respected news organizations have come together to support this incredible opportunity.”

Building on the success of the inaugural industry-first newsroom simulation last December, participants will apply the skills acquired throughout the course in an intensive competitive challenge to investigate and report on an ongoing climate catastrophe in a fictional country.

Becky Anderson, CNN Abu Dhabi editor-in-chief and host of Connect the World, said: “Climate change is one of the biggest events of our time and as the United The newsroom simulation focuses on how to cover the climate crisis as a reporter and storyteller. It’s a great opportunity to learn new skills and increase career opportunities, and I look forward to seeing applications from this year’s students.”

Successful applicants will learn essential journalistic skills, including how CNN gathers information, verifies sources and produces content for multiple platforms through live workshops and webinars, the community hub is part of twofour54’s Yas Creative Center in Abu Dhabi , as well as CNN and more than 600 other media and entertainment companies. The Community Center, which also houses CMA’s Creative Lab, will provide facilities and infrastructure, including equipment, learning resources, student liaison and outreach, and graduation ceremonies.

With guidance and knowledge sharing from senior CNN journalists, production experts and renowned content creators within the Abu Dhabi ecosystem, as well as the support of a creative lab, participants will complete ten core courses on topics including journalistic ethics, breaking news reporting and Script writing broadcast.

CNN Academy Abu Dhabi is open to UAE nationals and residents aged 21+ with a background and/or interest in media and multi-platform storytelling.

For more information and to apply, visit academy.cnn.com/abudhabi