Virtually Safe
Programs

Young African Internet Safety Fellows (YAISF)

A one-year program designed to equip young people in Nigeria (ages 13–18) with the skills, knowledge, and resources to address pressing internet safety challenges.

YAISF fellows
YAISF fellowship activities

About the Fellowship

The Young African Internet Safety (YAIS) Fellowship is a one-year program designed to equip young people in Nigeria (ages 13–18) with the skills, knowledge, and resources to address pressing internet safety challenges.

As Africa's youth increasingly engage in digital spaces, they face significant risks such as cyberbullying, online exploitation, misinformation, and digital addiction. The YAIS Fellowship empowers the next generation to become leaders in online safety, ensuring a safer digital future for all.

Through curated training, workshops, mentorship, and hands-on community projects, fellows develop the expertise needed to drive change within their communities and advocate for responsible digital engagement.

2,000+

Youth reached through community projects

16+

Hours of training in online safety & cybersecurity

8

Fellows trained, empowered, and equipped to drive change

13–18

Age range of fellows

Fellowship Program Structure

The YAISF is structured around six key programs, each aimed at building fellows' expertise in online safety, cybersecurity, advocacy, and community engagement.

🎤

Cyber Space Conference

Fellows are officially announced and participate in the Cyber Space Conference, engaging with industry experts, policymakers, and cybersecurity professionals.

Fellows gained real-world exposure to cybersecurity discussions and contributed to key conversations about online safety policy for young people.

🛡️

Online Safety Training

Interactive workshops covering cyber threats, digital literacy, misinformation, privacy, and online safety best practices.

Topics: Cyberbullying Prevention, Online Privacy & Digital Footprints, Recognising & Reporting Online Exploitation, Safe Social Media Practices.

🏘️

Community Project Implementation

Each fellow receives a stipend to develop and implement an online safety project in their community — book readings, workshops, or online campaigns.

Over 2,000+ students reached through community-led projects, fostering a ripple effect of online safety awareness.

💻

Virtual Cybersecurity Training

Technical training covering cyber threats & protection, AI in cybersecurity, and ethical hacking & digital forensics basics.

Fellows gained technical skills and a deeper understanding of AI-driven security solutions, preparing them for future careers in cybersecurity.

📢

Advocacy Training

Training in digital citizenship, combating online hate speech & misinformation, and how to report and respond to digital harassment.

Fellows developed advocacy skills to engage policymakers, school leaders, and online platforms in strengthening online safety measures.

🎉

Virtual Closing Party

A celebration event bringing together fellows and program coordinators to reflect on achievements and foster connections for future collaborations.

Fellows expressed renewed commitment to online safety advocacy, with many planning to continue their work beyond the fellowship.

Eligibility

  • Young Nigerian aged 13–18
  • Passionate about online safety and digital rights
  • Ability to commit to fellowship activities throughout the year
  • Willing to design and execute a community online safety project
  • Open to training sessions, workshops, and mentorship meetings

How to Apply

  1. 1Visit the application portal and complete the online form
  2. 2Submit a brief statement of interest and your community project idea
  3. 3Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview
  4. 4Successful applicants will receive an offer to join the fellowship

Supported by

Impact Amplifier, Google.org, and key stakeholders in the internet safety community

📄

Download YAISF Program Report

Read the full program report documenting YAISF activities, milestones, and impact from the fellowship year.

Download PDF

Applications Open Soon!

Together, we are building a safer internet for the next generation. Express your interest to be notified when applications open.

Express Interest