Apply Now: CJF-CP News Creator Fellowship (Canada)

This six-week fellowship is designed to provide aspiring news creators with comprehensive training and mentorship from The Canadian Press’s editors and journalists, focusing on the creation of engaging local news videos.

Supported by YouTube Canada and the Google News Initiative, the CJF-CP News Creator Fellowship is dedicated to nurturing the growth of emerging video storytelling talent. Fellows will also receive valuable training on compelling video content creation from YouTube Canada’s news team.

Funding Information

• Stipend: $5,500
• Duration: A six consecutive week period determined between May and August 2024

Eligibility Criteria

• Open to Canadian journalism students graduating from post-secondary journalism programs in Spring 2024.
• Fellowship candidates must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
• They strongly encourage people of colour, LGBT individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, and foreign-born residents to apply.

Award Criteria

• Creativity: Applicants should demonstrate an innovative and creative approach to news video production, showcasing their ability to generate fresh and engaging content.
• Technical Proficiency: Candidates must exhibit proficiency in video and audio editing, displaying a grasp of technical skills necessary for producing and editing high-quality news videos.
• Equipment: Applicants must own a smartphone in working condition that can record audio and video (front and rear facing) with one of the following models: iPhone, Samsung Galaxy or Google Pixel no older than 2021.
• Communication Skills: Applicants must demonstrate strong verbal and written communication skills, as well as the ability to convey information clearly and concisely through video storytelling.
• Journalistic Integrity: Fellows should uphold the standards of journalistic ethics and integrity, presenting well-researched and fact-based news stories that adhere to industry standards.
• Potential for Growth: The selection committee will assess each applicant’s potential for growth and development, looking for individuals who show promise and dedication to advancing their careers in the field of video journalism.

Application Requirements

• Fluency in either English or French.
• Applicants must submit a proposal letter outlining their goals for the fellowship experience.
• Applicants should include their resume, and one sample of their video journalism for the jury’s consideration.
• Video Submission Requirements:
  • 1x 9:16 (vertical) video that ranges between 60 seconds to 3 minutes
  • Video should be POV and include visual cues to help guide the watcher along
  • They’re looking for a quick news report style video that gets applicants outside in your cities
• Here are some tips:
  • Start with a compelling hook to immediately grab viewer attention.
  • Use high-quality visuals, such as footage, images, and graphics, to enhance the narrative and engage viewers.
  • Deliver key information (the ‘5 Ws and H’) upfront, using clear, direct language and short, impactful soundbites.
  • Maintain a brisk pace with quick cuts and ensure the video is optimized for mobile viewing, including vertical or square formats and readable text.
  • Include captions for accessibility and conclude with a strong statement or call to action for further engagement.

For more information, visit CJF.