Dakar Beckons: 15 Young Journalists Join IOC’s Elite Program

Global Talent Converges for Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games Young Reporters Programme

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced the selection of fifteen promising sports journalists from around the globe to participate in its prestigious Young Reporters Programme during the upcoming Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games. This highly anticipated event signifies a significant opportunity for emerging talent to hone their skills and gain invaluable experience at one of the world’s premier multi-sport spectacles for young athletes.

The programme, which underwent a significant revamp and relaunch in September 2025, attracted an overwhelming response, with 271 applications pouring in from 32 countries worldwide. This strong interest underscores the global appeal and impact of the IOC’s initiative to nurture the next generation of sports media professionals.

The fifteen selected participants, all aged between 21 and 25, are poised to embark on an intensive training regimen. This hands-on experience will see them actively covering the competitions and diverse cultural activities unfolding across Dakar, Diamniadio, and Saly. Their reporting efforts will be instrumental in bringing the spirit and excitement of the Games to a global audience.

A key feature of this year’s cohort is its remarkable diversity and broad geographical representation. The programme proudly includes six participants from the African continent, with a notable three hailing from the host nation, Senegal. This commitment to inclusivity ensures a rich tapestry of perspectives and voices contributing to the Games’ narrative.

Beyond Africa, the selected young journalists represent a wide array of regions, including Europe, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas. Furthermore, the inclusion of individuals from countries slated to host future Olympic and Youth Olympic Games highlights the programme’s long-term vision and its role in fostering a global network of sports journalism expertise.

The fifteen individuals chosen for this transformative experience are:

• Oumou Koulsoum Balde (Senegal)
• Boubacar Diop (Senegal)
• Aissatou Ka (Senegal)
• Nathan Goddard-McCarthy (Barbados)
• Flavie Kazmierczak (France)
• Yue Liu (China)
• Simone Longo (Italy)
• Nkele Martin (Canada)
• Mahbubat Salahudeen (Nigeria)
• Hawa Sow Tall (Mauritania)
• Aina Vall (Spain)
• Joh Vonne Roberts (USA)
• Abigael Wafula (Kenya)
• Jack Young (Australia)
• Evelyn Younger (Australia)

Immersive Training and Real-World Application

Central to the Young Reporters Programme is the comprehensive training provided at the Main Press Centre. Here, under the expert mentorship of seasoned Olympic media professionals, participants will immerse themselves in various facets of sports journalism. The curriculum is designed to equip them with practical skills in:

• Print Journalism: Developing compelling written narratives and insightful analyses of sporting events.
• Sports Photography: Capturing the drama, emotion, and athleticism of the Games through powerful imagery.
• Broadcasting: Gaining experience in live reporting, interviews, and producing engaging audio-visual content.
• Social Media Reporting: Mastering the art of digital storytelling and engaging with audiences across various online platforms.

Beyond structured training, the young reporters will gain invaluable real-time experience in dynamic press conference settings, navigate the bustling mixed zones for athlete interviews, and contribute to live event coverage. Their published stories and multimedia content will be featured on the programme’s dedicated platforms, offering them a significant professional portfolio.

A Legacy of Nurturing Talent

The IOC Young Reporters Programme boasts a rich history, having been launched in tandem with the inaugural Youth Olympic Games in Singapore in 2010. Since its inception, the programme has successfully trained 125 young journalists from 68 countries. The impact of this initiative is evident in the numerous alumni who have forged successful and impactful careers within the competitive world of sports media.

The Dakar 2026 edition builds upon this established legacy, incorporating crucial updates to align with the ever-evolving media landscape. These enhancements are informed by a comprehensive independent review conducted in 2025 by Dr. Jessie Wilkie from the University of Canberra, ensuring the programme remains at the forefront of journalistic education.

The Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games are scheduled to take place from October 31 to November 13, 2026. The event is anticipated to bring together approximately 2,700 athletes, all under the age of 17, from across the globe, competing in a spirit of friendship and excellence. The Young Reporters Programme will undoubtedly play a vital role in documenting and celebrating their achievements.