What is Voices of the Future?
Voices of the Future (VOTF), presented by the Effie LIONS Foundation, is an eight-month global fellowship designed to spotlight and support rising marketing talent.
Through virtual learning, an in-person experience at the Cannes Lions Festival, and paid placements with global brands, fellows gain hands-on experience and prepare to shape the future of marketing. This opportunity is fully funded by the Effie LIONS Foundation, and generous supporters!
Applications open February 4 and close March 16, 2026.
Apply Today
Why apply to join VOTF?
Breaking into the marketing industry is harder than ever. Entry-level roles are harder to come by while expectations continue to rise, with many employers now requiring prior experience, digital fluency, and comfort with AI tools.
As access shrinks, the industry risks becoming more exclusive—at the very moment when fresh voices and diverse perspectives are most needed. Voices of the Future was created to meet this challenge.
The Fellowship closes a critical access gap, providing skills, networks, mentorship, and real industry experience to emerging talent. We prepare Fellows not just for their first role, but for durable, future-ready careers as the next generation of marketing leaders.
GET STARTEDWho is the fellowship for?
Students who are:
- Enrolled in a college or university program – expected to graduate between December 2025 – December 2028
- Interested in marketing, advertising, brand strategy, communications, or market research/analytics and can demonstrate their interest
- Proficient in written and spoken English
- Available to attend the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity (June 22-26, 2026)
- Able to commit approximately
four hours per week to required program activities (virtual)
- Eligible to travel internationally and have a valid passport
- 18-years-old or older
When is the fellowship delivered?
The fellowship runs annually:
- February – Applications open
- March – Applications close
- April – June – Virtual learning sessions
- June – In-person experience at the Cannes Lions Festival
- July – December –Paid work placements,
insights sharing, virtual learning sessions, and networking
Fellows commit approximately four hours per week to virtual program activities, as well as additional time
to attend the Cannes Lions Festival and complete a paid placement.
FAQs
What is the Voices of the Future fellowship?
A fully funded, eight-month global fellowship presented by the Effie LIONS Foundation that supports emerging marketing talent through learning, mentorship, industry access, and paid placements.
Who is eligible to apply?
Students currently enrolled in a college or university program with an expected graduation between Winter 2025 – Winter 2028 who are interested in marketing or related fields and meet the program’s availability requirements.
Is there a cost to participate?
No. The fellowship is fully funded by the Effie LIONS Foundation, including learning, mentorship, and the Cannes Lions Festival experience.
When does the program run?
The program runs from mid-April through to mid-December.
How many Fellows are selected?
Up to 12 students will be selected globally for the 2026 cohort.
How do I apply?
Applications are completed online and include written responses, short video responses, and a letter of recommendation. Optional work samples may also be submitted. In 2026, applications open February 4 and close March 16.
Click here to apply.
What does the selection process look like?
Applications are reviewed in multiple stages including application review, shortlisting, and final panel interviews with global industry leaders.
What are reviewers looking for?
Reviewers prioritize curiosity, growth potential, strategic thinking, and lived experience over prior access, polish, or internships.
Do I need prior marketing experience to apply?
No. Prior experience is not required. The fellowship is designed for students who can demonstrate interest in the marketing industry, including advertising, brand strategy, communications, or market research/analytics.
How much time does the fellowship require?
Fellows should expect to commit approximately four hours per week of virtual work, with increased time during key moments such as in-person at the Cannes Lions Festival and during work placements.
What is the Cannes Lions Festival?
Held annually in the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès in Cannes, France, the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity is home to the world’s biggest celebration of history-making creativity. The event celebrates effectiveness, innovation and creativity in the global advertising, marketing, and communication industries.
What happens at the Cannes Lions Festival?
Fellows attend the festival as part of a curated program that includes workshops, mentorship sessions, content creation, and industry exposure.
Will I receive mentorship?
Yes. Fellows receive guidance from industry professionals throughout the program.
What kind of work will I produce?
Fellows create portfolio-ready work including strategic thinking, cultural insights, content experiments, and applied learning outputs.
Are work placements paid?
Yes. Fellows complete paid work placements with partner organizations as part of the program. Please note fellowship work outside of paid work placements is unpaid.
Where do placements take place?
Placements may be remote or in-person, depending on the partner organization and location.
Do I need to be fluent in English?
Yes. All program sessions and materials are delivered in English.
Can I apply if I’ve participated in other Effie programs?
Yes. We encourage past participants of Effie Collegiate competitions to apply!
What happens if I’m selected but can’t attend Cannes Lions Festival?
Attendance at Cannes Lions Festival is a core part of the program; finalists must confirm availability.
What if my plans change after I apply?
Applicants should notify the program team as soon as possible, so appropriate guidance can be provided. Email VOTF@effielions.org.
If I have additional questions who can I reach out to?
Applicants with additional questions can email us at VOTF@effielions.org