Open Call: Training Program for Aspiring Journalists and Editors

This 30-hour program is crafted to address the current challenges and disparities within the media industry and to reshape the landscape of newsrooms, with a particular emphasis on promoting inclusiveness and representation by fostering diversity, expanding collaboration networks and equipping underrepresented groups with essential professional skills.

The primary objective of the program is to reshape the landscape of newsrooms by fostering diversity, expanding collaboration networks, and equipping underrepresented groups with essential professional skills. By doing so, the initiative aims to ensure a more comprehensive and accurate portrayal of the world in media.

The program is directed at aspiring journalists and less-represented journalists/editors in the newsrooms. Participation is free of charge, and there are 25 available spots for this cycle.

Beyond the training course, participants have the opportunity to propose and work on their journalistic and editorial projects. Selected projects will receive financial support and mentoring, allowing participants to contribute meaningful media pieces with guidance from experienced editors.

The Come Together project is co-funded by the European Commission through the Creative Europe program.

What are the objectives of this program?

• Foster diversity within newsrooms and expand the network of collaborators for media organizations.
• Enhance the professional skills of aspiring journalists and editors who are underrepresented in the field.
• Create a platform for collaborative educational programs, bringing together young and aspiring journalists from diverse communities to strengthen trust in media among various audiences.

What they offer?

• Comprehensive training: Participants in the Come Together Training Program can expect a well-structured curriculum spread across three modules, totaling 15 classes and 30 hours of learning. The expert trainers will guide you through essential topics, providing a robust foundation for your journey in journalism.
• Inclusive and diverse content: The program is meticulously designed to address current challenges and disparities within the journalism industry.
• Collaboration and Networking: The program aims to establish a collaborative community among participants. They look forward to your active involvement in building connections with fellow journalists and editors, fostering a supportive network that extends beyond the training period.
• Free of charge participation.
• A certificate of completion will be awarded to those who attend and successfully fulfill the training objectives.
• Fellowship program: Beyond the training course, participants have the opportunity to propose and work on their journalistic and editorial projects. Selected projects will receive financial support and mentoring, allowing participants to contribute meaningful media pieces with guidance from experienced editors.

What they expect?

• Active participation: They anticipate selected participants to actively engage in all scheduled sessions of the training program.
• Commitment to objectives: Participants should align with the overarching goals of the Come Together project. As the success of the initiative relies on the dedication and contribution of each participant, they encourage you to actively support the project’s mission in promoting inclusivity, diversity, and professional excellence in journalism.
• Application of learnings: They expect participants to apply the acquired knowledge and skills beyond the training sessions. The goal is to see the impact of the program reflected in your journalistic work and contributions to the media landscape.
• Fulfillment of commitments: For participants selected for the Fellowship Program, they anticipate a commitment to the development and execution of your journalistic and/or editorial projects.

Who is eligible?

• Aspiring and entry-level journalists from any age group; applicants that are legal residents in the countries within the Creative Europe framework (encompassing EU member states, Overseas Countries and Territories, Outermost Regions of the European Union, and non-EU Participating Countries).
• Priority can be given to people from groups that are underrepresented in the media.
• After the selection, proof of residency in the countries within the Creative Europe framework may be requested.

For more information, visit Eurozine.