The U.S. Department of State and the National Geographic Society have announced the five young professionals selected as the first Fulbright-National Geographic Digital Storytelling Fellows. This new component of the Fulbright Program provides a unique platform for U.S. Fulbright awardees to build awareness of transnational challenges, comparing and contrasting cross-border issues.

Fellows will share their stories on nationalgeographic.com, using a variety of digital storytelling tools, including text, photography, video, audio, graphic illustrations and/or social media, the two institutions said in a news statement. Over a nine-month period, the five Fellows will create stories on globally significant social or environmental topics, including cities, cultures and energy.

"We are thrilled to partner with the U.S. Department of State for the first Fulbright-National Geographic Digital Storytelling Fellowship," said Keith Jenkins, National Geographic's executive director, digital. "This platform is exactly in line with our mission of inspiring people to care about the planet. Our editors are excited to work closely with the five Fellows on their projects throughout the coming year."

Fellows will receive funding for travel, living expenses and health/accident insurance as well as a materials and reporting allowance from the U.S. Department of State. Editors from National Geographic will mentor the Fellows, helping them tell their stories to a wider global audience. IIE is administering these fellowships in partnership with the U.S. Department of State and the National Geographic Society.