ICYF International Media Training Camp 2025 in Turkey: Applications Extended

Young, aspiring journalists and media professionals now have an extended opportunity to hone their skills at the ICYF International Media Training Camp 2025 in Antalya, Türkiye. Organized by the Islamic Cooperation Youth Forum (ICYF) in partnership with TRT, Türkiye's national public broadcaster, this fully funded camp aims to equip young individuals with essential journalistic skills and ethical values. The deadline for applications has been extended to July 24, 2025.

Empowering Future Media Leaders

The six-day immersive program targets youth from Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Member States and Muslim minorities from non-OIC countries, fostering a new generation of journalists capable of critically assessing digital media and positively impacting their communities. The camp focuses on developing ethical values and core principles of journalism.

"In today's media landscape, it's crucial to equip young journalists with the tools and ethical frameworks necessary to navigate the complexities of digital storytelling," says Dr. Elif Kaya, a Professor of Media Ethics at Istanbul University, who specializes in the impact of social media on journalistic practices. "Programs like the ICYF Media Training Camp play a vital role in fostering responsible and impactful media professionals."

Comprehensive Training and Cultural Immersion

Participants will engage in comprehensive training covering various aspects of journalism, including digital storytelling, mobile journalism, and media ethics. The program also offers a unique opportunity to network with peers from diverse countries and cultures, fostering international collaboration and understanding. A final media project, evaluated by a jury from TRT, provides practical experience and valuable feedback.

The training camp offers an immersive experience in Antalya, with local transportation, accommodation, meals, and a cultural city tour covered by the organizers. International participants will receive reimbursement for flight costs up to $250, while participants residing in Türkiye can receive up to 3500₺ for domestic travel. Furthermore, participants receive an official confirmation letter to support their visa application process.

A Historical Context: Investing in Future Journalists

Scholarship programs and training camps focused on journalism, particularly those targeting young people from diverse backgrounds, have a long and important history. These initiatives have been instrumental in diversifying the media landscape and ensuring that a wider range of voices and perspectives are represented. The ICYF Media Training Camp builds upon this legacy by specifically targeting youth from OIC member states and Muslim minorities, often underrepresented in global media.

According to a 2023 UNESCO report on global media trends, there remains a significant disparity in media representation across different regions and communities. Initiatives like the ICYF camp are crucial for addressing this imbalance and fostering a more inclusive and equitable media ecosystem.

Benefits of Participation

Local transportation covered. Travel insurance provided. Domestic transportation expenses covered for Turkish residents (up to 3500 liras). International flight tickets reimbursed (up to $250). Accommodation, food, and city tour expenses covered. Visa application support. Joint certificate from ICYF and TRT upon full attendance.

Eligibility Criteria

Aged between 18 and 25. Strong command of English. Citizens of 56 OIC Member States, Muslim youth from OIC Member States, or Muslim minorities from non-OIC Member States. Strong interest in media-related projects. Eagerness to learn about media issues and topics. Passion and responsibility to attend the entire training program.

How to Apply

Submit an online application through the official website. Register and fill out the application form with personal and educational information. Provide links to social media profiles. Enter emergency contact details. Answer experience and motivation questions, describing previous media experience and reasons for applying. Read and accept the ICYF International Media Training Camp for Journalism for Juniors Code of Conduct. Submit the application form.

Applications will be evaluated based on eligibility and criteria, and shortlisted candidates may be invited for an online interview. Selected participants will receive an email confirmation with camp program details.

Key Dates and Locations

Host Country: Türkiye Location: Alaaddin Keykubat Gençlik Kampı Antalya, Türkiye Training Program for Young Men: September 8-13, 2025 Training Program for Young Women: September 15-20, 2025 Extended Deadline: July 24, 2025

Seizing the Opportunity

The ICYF International Media Training Camp 2025 represents a significant opportunity for young individuals passionate about journalism and media to develop their skills, expand their networks, and contribute to a more informed and ethical media landscape. With the deadline extended, aspiring journalists are encouraged to apply and embark on this transformative experience.

Professor Ahmet Demir, a media consultant and former editor at a leading Turkish newspaper, emphasizes the importance of practical training in journalism. "While academic knowledge is essential, hands-on experience and mentorship from industry professionals are invaluable for aspiring journalists," he notes. "The ICYF camp's focus on practical skills and networking opportunities will undoubtedly benefit participants in their future careers."