2025 IPI-IMS World Press Freedom Hero Award Ceremony
October 11, 2025
A prominent journalism training opportunity has been launched: Deutsche Welle’s (DW) paid traineeship program is now accepting applications starting 13 October 2025 at 12:00 PM (Central European Summer Time).
This initiative—often referred to as the DW-Volontariat—aims to cultivate the next generation of multimedia journalists by offering an immersive, bilingual 18-month training track. Participants will train across radio, television, and digital media formats, gaining hands-on newsroom experience under mentorship and editorial rotations at DW’s headquarters in Bonn and Berlin.
Key details & schedule
- Application window: Opens 13 October 2025, 12:00 PM CEST and closes 17 November 2025, 12:00 PM CET
- Program duration & dates: 18 months, starting 4 January 2027 and concluding mid-2028
- Number of slots: Approximately 12 positions are available
- Coverage & benefits: Fully paid traineeship; participants will receive remuneration, mentorship, editorial placements, and technical training across formats
The program is designed for individuals who have completed higher education (or equivalent professional qualifications) and who demonstrate interest, aptitude, or early experience in journalism or media. Fluency in English and a working knowledge of German are often expected, though the program accommodates diverse linguistic backgrounds given its bilingual format. Applicants will be selected via a multistage evaluation process, which may include creative submissions, assessments, and interviews.
By participating in DW’s traineeship, individuals gain a rare opportunity to build journalism skills in a major international media organization, with exposure to global news systems, digital storytelling, editorial workflows, and professional networks. This event marks the opening of an accessible avenue for aspiring journalists from around the world to engage directly with European media.
Reference –
DW Traineeship 2027–2028: Applications Open for Aspiring International Journalists