Applications Open for MANRS Mentors and Ambassadors Program

We’re happy to announce that applications are now open for this year’s MANRS Mentors and Ambassadors Program. Applications will close on 19 April, and the program will run for six months from 1 June until 1 December. Applications are available in the Internet Society Foundation’s online platform, which will require an account.

What are Mentors and Ambassadors?

Mentors are well-respected routing security professionals who help guide Ambassadors and advise the community.

Ambassadors are emerging leaders who work to improve their own skills and collaborate to improve routing security in their regions and industries.

What do they do?

Mentors work in one of three tracks – training, research, or policy. They train communities on good routing practices, analyze routing incidents, research ways to secure routing, and survey the global policy landscape. They may provide hands-on assistance to potential MANRS participants or help local policymakers understand routing security better. Mentors may advise the MANRS community or the Steering Committee on current topics.

What’s the timeline?

• Applications open: 4-19 April
• Review period: 20-28 April
• Notifications: 5 May
• Program Dates: 1 June – 1 December

What are the requirements?

MANRS Mentors must be able to allocate approximately four (4) hours per week to MANRS activities. MANRS Ambassadors must be able to allocate approximately two (2) hours per week to MANRS activities.

They must commit to the entire length of the six-month program, including monthly meetings, regular online discussions, and a program-end symposium. They must have reliable broadband Internet access, including videoconferencing capabilities and be proficient in verbal and written English. There is no age requirement or employment requirement.

How do I apply?

Applicants must create an account and apply through the Internet Society Foundation’s portal. Once you’ve logged in, select the MANRS Mentors and Ambassadors Program.

Applications close on 19 April.

What’s new this year?

We’ve got some exciting new changes this year as we continue to grow and refine the program.

1. MANRS Participation Requirements. In the past, Mentors were required to be representatives from a MANRS participant in good standing. This year, that’s no longer mandatory. However, preference will be given to applicants from MANRS participants.
2. Simultaneous Program Application Selection. We’ve streamlined into a single application form and selection timeframe for both Mentors and Ambassadors. You’ll choose which position you’re applying for and which track—training, research, or policy—from within the application form. The selection team will review all applications at once.
3. New Name. You may have noticed we changed the name of the program slightly. Previous cohorts were called Ambassadors and Fellows. Ambassadors are now called Mentors, and Fellows are now called Ambassadors. This is to align program terminology better across the Internet Society’s leadership programs.
4. New Application System. Applications are now run through the Internet Society Foundation’s online system, so you’ll have to create an account if you don’t already have one.
5. Shortened Duration. The program takes place from 1 June to 1 December. Each Mentor and Ambassador will develop a six-month work plan and work together to accomplish their deliverables.
6. MANRS Symposium. At the end of the program, our Mentors and Ambassadors will share what they’ve learned with the whole MANRS community in an online event.

What else should I know?

The Internet Society supports this program as part of its work to reduce common routing threats and establish norms for network operations. We’re proud to announce the APNIC Foundation is also sponsoring the program again this year. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available; contact us if you’re interested.

Any Questions?

If you have any questions about this program or the application process, email [email protected].