Young people in Qatar and across the globe, between the ages of 18-26, are encouraged to apply for the seventh cohort of the Doha Debates Ambassador Program, offered by Qatar Foundation’s Doha Debates.

The program equips participants with critical intercultural discussion, communication, and consensus-building skills to address global problems and find collaborative solutions for a healthy, equitable future.

Successful applicants will be invited to join a five week online community of practice from 2 to 30 September 2025 where they will explore majlis-style debate, communication skills and consensus building with global peers.

The program is open to fluent English speakers who have access to an internet-enabled computer for video conferencing. The deadline for application is 20 July 2025. Interested candidates can learn more and apply at DohaDebates.com/Ambassador.

Participants will engage in weekly virtual learning sessions guided by facilitation and intercultural communication expert Dr. Brandon Ferderer and systems-thinking specialist Jennifer Geist, along with various international guest speakers. They will hone their skills through the lens of Doha Debates’ video series Better Conversations.

Upon successful completion of the community of practice, cohort members will be invited to engage in eight additional weeks of the program from 14 October to 2 December 2025. They will learn to use systems thinking to deepen their understanding of complex global issues, conflict negotiation and to practice majlis-style debate.

Launched in 2021 with partner organization Shared_Studios, the program has engaged hundreds of emerging leaders, representing 70 countries on six continents. Participants learn from one another and from expert international leaders and activists, harnessing the power of dialogue and storytelling to understand and value the diverse worldviews and beliefs of their global peers.

Amjad Atallah, Doha Debates’ Managing Director, said: “With each new cycle of the Ambassador Program, young leaders from around the world come together to engage in the kind of thoughtful, respectful truth-seeking dialogue inspired by the majlis tradition. Through challenging conversations and global exchange, participants strengthen their ability to listen, communicate, and navigate complex issues with openness and empathy. We are proud to help equip the next generation of leaders with the skills to engage constructively across cultures and perspectives.”

Alumni of the ambassador program stay actively engaged with Doha Debates, representing the organization at high-profile events and projects, and serving as mentors to other cohorts. Several ambassadors recently facilitated a series of dialogues on Sustainable Development Goal 10: Reducing Inequality between students at the Swiss International School in Doha and Escola Americana do Rio de Janeiro.

“Diversity in perspective is crucial for solving the problems we face today. Not only does it help bring in all stakeholders, but it also contributes to personal and professional development,” said Ambassador Mentor Fatima Nazar, a graduate of Qatar University. “This is more than just a program, a session call per week. It’s about fostering amazing global connections, learning from each other and reaching new levels in your development.”