Doha Debates Ambassador Program 2026 (Cohort 8): Applications Now Open

Applications are officially open for the 8th cohort of the Doha Debates Ambassador Program, a global leadership initiative designed to equip young people with the skills to engage in constructive dialogue, navigate conflict, and approach complex global challenges with empathy and intelligence. The program runs virtually and welcomes participants from around the world.

The deadline to apply is December 15, 2025.

About the Doha Debates Ambassador Program

The Doha Debates Ambassador Program is a competitive, mentor-guided leadership experience that trains emerging global leaders in Majlis-style dialogue — a centuries-old model of inclusive discussion rooted in cooperation, truth-seeking, and shared problem-solving.

The program brings together intellectually curious young people who are committed to engaging deeply with global issues and bridging divides through open, honest, and nuanced conversations. Ambassadors learn to debate collaboratively rather than confrontationally, focusing on dialogue that leads to solutions rather than polarization.

Participants learn from internationally recognised experts, including:

Dr. Brandon Ferderer, specialist in facilitation and intercultural communication
Jennifer Geist, expert in systems thinking and complex problem analysis

Together, they guide ambassadors through a rigorous examination of global issues, encouraging cross-cultural understanding and the inclusion of marginalized perspectives.

Why the Program Was Created

Doha Debates designed this program to cultivate a new generation of leaders who can:

Think critically and systemically
Understand diverse cultural perspectives
Take a collaborative approach to conflict
Develop solutions that balance multiple worldviews
Foster productive, community-focused dialogue

At a time when public conversation is increasingly polarized, the Majlis framework offers a structured environment where young leaders can engage bravely, respectfully, and creatively.

What Participants Gain

Over the course of the program, ambassadors engage in weekly sessions and collaborative activities that strengthen both their intellectual and interpersonal skills. By the end of the program, participants will be able to:

Engage in advanced discussions on global challenges
Navigate intercultural communication with clarity and empathy
Understand and communicate opposing viewpoints thoughtfully
Build persuasive narratives that inspire constructive action
Connect personal experiences to broader global systems
Facilitate community-oriented Majlis-style discussions
Build meaningful professional relationships with peers worldwide
Access continued opportunities through the Doha Debates network

Graduates emerge as more informed, collaborative, and confident leaders.

Program Structure

The Ambassador Program is delivered in two structured phases:

Part One: Community of Practice (CoP)

January 20 – February 10, 2026

All selected applicants begin with this four-week introductory phase. Participation is required to continue to the full program.

Commitments include:

Weekly Zoom sessions (Tuesdays, 7–8:30 p.m. Doha time)
Weekly discussions on the Participate learning platform
Additional communication via email and WhatsApp

Participants typically spend 3–4 hours per week.
Upon completion, they earn a Community of Practice credential suitable for LinkedIn.

Part Two: Ambassador Program

February 17 – April 7, 2026

Those who complete the CoP move into an eight-week intensive Ambassador experience, including small-group work and a final capstone project.

Commitments include:

Weekly Zoom sessions
Forum discussions
Regular communication on email and WhatsApp

Participants spend 4–5 hours per week and receive an official Doha Debates Ambassador Program Certificate at completion.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

Age 18–26 by January 20, 2026
Have reliable internet access suitable for video meetings
Fluent in English
Fully available for all program dates
Able to attend all 12 live Zoom sessions

Preference is given to applicants who complete the Introduction to the Majlis course on the Doha Debates Learning Community platform.

Application Requirements

The application includes:

Personal information
Confirmation of availability
Three short-answer essay responses
Agreement to follow the program’s guidelines
A commitment not to use AI tools for any written responses

Applicants should answer all questions thoughtfully and completely.

Key Dates

December 15, 2025 – Application deadline
January 6–8, 2026 – Interviews
January 13, 2026 – Acceptance notifications
January 20 – February 10, 2026 – Community of Practice
February 17 – April 7, 2026 – Ambassador Program

How to Apply

Students and young professionals who are ready to join a global network of collaborative, solutions-driven leaders should submit their application before the deadline.

Apply Here (Deadline: December 15, 2025)
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