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Karen Allen InternationalKaren Allen International

Training

Real-world learning for real-world challenges.

At Karen Allen International (KAI), we deliver journalism-inspired training that empowers individuals and organisations to navigate complexity, communicate clearly, and act strategically.

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How we train

Our training is:

  • Journalism-led: grounded in real-world experience, reporting techniques, and ethical inquiry
  • Scenario-based: designed around case studies and practical exercises
  • Customisable: tailored to sector, skill level, and strategic priorities
  • Global in outlook: informed by international norms and cross-cultural awareness

 

We’ve delivered training for:

  • Corporates and foreign missions
  • International NGOs and think tanks
  • Multilateral organisations and UN agencies
  • Academic institutions and research bodies

Comms Picture KAI

What we offer

Our programmes are grounded in decades of international reporting, open-source intelligence (OSINT), and deep subject-matter expertise.

We work across sectors, including government, multilateral organisations, civil society, and the private sector, offering bespoke, scenario-based training that’s relevant, rigorous, and globally informed.

Our training spans three interlinked areas:

Strategic communications and writing

We help individuals and teams craft impactful messages, build communication strategies, and strengthen their voice in the global arena.

  • Executive coaching and public speaking
  • High-level speechwriting
  • Crisis communications and scenario planning
  • Writing for policy and global audiences

Media and digital literacy

We build critical awareness in a fast-changing information environment, helping participants navigate influence, risk, and reputation.

  • Media literacy for policymakers and practitioners
  • Training on digital security and online threats
  • Managing influence operations and narrative control (disinformation)
  • Understanding the global communication and information landscape

OSINT and investigative training

We train participants to use open-source tools and techniques to generate intelligence, verify information, and investigate global issues.

  • OSINT for journalists, analysts, and researchers
  • Misinformation and disinformation detection and narrative analysis
  • Human rights and cyber policy case studies
  • Data-informed storytelling techniques

Our training is trusted by governments, multilateral organisations, universities, NGOs and corporates operating in sensitive and fast-changing environments.

Media Training by Karen Allen International. Press Scrum

Why choose KIA

Our edge is lived experience bringing together the top talent across the global media industry. Our founder, Karen Allen, is a former BBC TV and radio and digital news correspondent, both industry and academic affiliations, trusted by both the public and private sectors.

Our team brings field-tested insight, clarity of communication, and deep understanding of international systems.

We’ve trained leaders in diplomacy, crisis response, media strategy, and investigative research, building capacity for a world that demands agility and credibility.

Our Vision:

“To bridge the divide between international policy and practical delivery by offering powerful communications tools to help our clients explain some of the most pressing global issues of our time.”

— Karen Allen, Founder and Director

 

Get in touch: info@karenalleninternational.com

 

Locations: Johannesburg | London | Washington | Nairobi

Get in touch

Whether you’re tackling a disinformation crisis, upskilling your team in OSINT, or need help communicating your latest research to a global audience—we’re ready to help.

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