Announcing the BASE Fellowship: Empowering the Black Diaspora in AI Safety and Ethics

Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to shape nearly every aspect of modern life — from global governance and economic systems to healthcare and education. Yet, as the technology rapidly advances, so do the challenges related to its safety, ethics, and equitable use. Recognizing the urgent need for diverse voices in this critical field, the Black in AI Safety and Ethics (BASE) Fellowship has launched to empower members of the Black Diaspora to engage deeply with and influence the future of AI.

The BASE Fellowship is a 12-week, part-time remote program tentatively set to begin in April 2026. It combines immersive training, mentorship, and hands-on project experience to prepare participants to contribute meaningfully to the global conversation on AI safety, governance, and security.

About the BASE Fellowship

The fellowship begins with four weeks of intensive, immersive training, introducing participants to key concepts in AI safety and ethics. Fellows will explore critical topics such as AI governance frameworks, algorithmic bias, data privacy, risk management, and the societal impacts of emerging technologies.

Following this foundational phase, participants will spend eight weeks working on mentored projects, applying their new knowledge to real-world challenges. These projects will focus on advancing ethical and secure AI development while ensuring that underrepresented communities have a voice in shaping technology’s trajectory.

Through expert guidance and collaboration, the BASE Fellowship aims to create a network of leaders equipped to address the complex intersections between AI innovation and social responsibility.

Mentorship and Expert Guidance

The program’s mentorship component is central to its design. Fellows will have the opportunity to work closely with experienced professionals who are leaders in AI safety and governance. The 2026 cohort will be guided by an inspiring team of mentors, including Krystal Jackson, Heramb Podar, and others who bring a wealth of experience in technology, ethics, and global policy.

These mentors will support participants in refining their research, expanding their professional networks, and exploring career pathways in the field of responsible AI. The mentorship experience is intended to not only build technical knowledge but also to foster a sense of belonging and confidence among fellows navigating the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

Why This Fellowship Matters

AI is transforming the world at an unprecedented pace, influencing everything from national security to climate response. However, the development and governance of AI have often lacked diversity — particularly the inclusion of Black professionals and researchers. This imbalance limits the scope of perspectives shaping the future of technology and can inadvertently reinforce existing inequalities.

The BASE Fellowship seeks to change that by empowering Black voices to lead in the global AI conversation. By investing in education, mentorship, and applied learning, BASE is helping to ensure that future advancements in artificial intelligence are ethical, inclusive, and socially responsible.

This initiative aligns with a growing movement toward greater representation in tech ethics and safety, recognizing that a diverse pool of experts is essential for identifying risks, designing fair systems, and ensuring that technology benefits all communities equitably.

Join the BASE Community

The Spring 2026 Call for Fellows is now open to individuals across the Black Diaspora who are passionate about AI ethics, safety, and governance. The program is also inviting mentors who are eager to guide the next generation of innovators in responsible AI.

Interested participants can express their interest through the official form available on the BASE Fellowship website.

By building a global community of scholars, practitioners, and mentors, the BASE Fellowship is helping to shape an AI ecosystem that values diversity, safeguards humanity, and drives ethical innovation for a sustainable future.

Tentative Launch: April 2026
Program Duration: 12 weeks (part-time, remote)
Application Information: Interest forms for both mentors and fellows are open on the BASE Fellowship website.

Learn more and apply HERE.

Click here for more opportunities.

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