Request for Applications: CJF Black Journalism Fellowship Program (Canada)

The Canadian Journalism Foundation (CJF) Black Journalism Fellowship Program supports emerging Black journalists through paid, in-person fellowships at leading Canadian newsrooms. The program aims to strengthen Black representation in media, improve coverage of Black communities, and develop the next generation of Black media leaders.

Overview

The Canadian Journalism Foundation (CJF) is accepting applications for its Black Journalism Fellowship Program, a prestigious paid opportunity designed to amplify Black voices in Canadian media.

The program places fellows in major national news organizations for six months, providing hands-on newsroom experience, professional mentorship, and exposure to high-impact journalism focused on business, investigative reporting, broadcast journalism, and public-interest reporting.

This initiative directly addresses representation gaps in Canadian media while supporting career advancement for Black journalists.

Fellowship Categories

Applicants may apply to one of the following fellowship streams:

• CJF–Globe and Mail Black Business Journalism Fellowship
  Focuses on business, economics, entrepreneurship, and financial reporting from a Black perspective.

• CJF–IJB Black Investigative Journalism Fellowship
  Hosted by the Investigative Journalism Bureau (IJB) at the University of Toronto’s Dalla Lana School of Public Health, with a focus on data-driven and public-interest investigations.

• CJF–CBC/Radio-Canada Black Journalism Fellowship
  Offers reporting experience in English or French across digital, radio, and television platforms.

• CJF–CBC/Radio-Canada Black Women’s Journalism Fellowship
  Specifically supports Black women journalists working across CBC or Radio-Canada newsrooms.

• CJF–CTV News Black Journalism Fellowship
  Provides experience in national broadcast journalism and digital news production.

Each fellowship has a distinct editorial focus but shares the same core structure, duration, and funding.

Fellowship Structure and Benefits

Host Organizations

Fellows are hosted by one of the following institutions:

• CBC or Radio-Canada (English or French services)

• The Globe and Mail

• CTV News

• Investigative Journalism Bureau (University of Toronto)

Duration and Format

• Length: 6 months

• Start Date: September 2025

• End Date: February 2026

• Format: Fully in-person at the host newsroom

Fellows are expected to work onsite and integrate fully into editorial teams.

Financial Support

• Stipend: CAD 35,000 total

• Payment Schedule: Paid in installments on the 15th and last day of each month

Please note that fellows must arrange and cover their own accommodation and living expenses in the host city.

Who Is Eligible?

While specific eligibility criteria are defined by CJF, the program is generally intended for:

• Black journalists based in Canada

• Early-career or emerging media professionals

• Individuals with demonstrated interest in journalism, storytelling, or investigative reporting

• Applicants who can commit to full-time, in-person participation for six months

Candidates should review the official CJF application guidelines carefully before applying.

Why This Fellowship Matters

The CJF Black Journalism Fellowship Program plays a critical role in strengthening Canada’s media ecosystem.

Key impacts include:

• Increasing accurate and nuanced coverage of Black communities

• Addressing systemic underrepresentation in newsrooms

• Building long-term leadership pathways for Black journalists

• Supporting investigative and public-interest journalism

By investing in talent development, CJF helps ensure Canadian journalism better reflects the diversity of its audiences.

How the Fellowship Works

1. Applicants submit an online application through CJF’s official platform.

2. Candidates are reviewed based on journalistic potential, motivation, and alignment with the selected fellowship stream.

3. Selected fellows are matched with host organizations.

4. Fellows complete a six-month paid placement beginning in September.

5. After completion, fellows submit a reflective post-fellowship report.

The final report highlights newsroom contributions, learning outcomes, and professional growth and is published on the CJF website and shared through CJF communications.

Application Timeline

• Applications Open: Now

• Application Deadline: January 23, 2026

• Deadline Time: 11:59 PM Eastern Time

• Fellowship Period: September 2025 to February 2026

Late submissions are not accepted.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying without clearly selecting a fellowship stream

• Submitting generic statements not tailored to the host organization

• Missing the application deadline or required documents

• Underestimating the need to relocate temporarily for in-person participation

Applicants are encouraged to prepare early and review all instructions carefully.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is the fellowship open to international applicants?

The program is primarily intended for Black journalists based in Canada. Applicants should consult CJF’s official guidelines for residency requirements.

2. Can I apply to more than one fellowship category?

Application rules may vary. Applicants should check whether multiple applications are permitted or if a single preferred stream must be selected.

3. Is the fellowship remote or hybrid?

No. All fellowships are fully in-person at the host organization.

4. Does the stipend cover housing and relocation?

The CAD 35,000 stipend is provided, but fellows are responsible for securing and paying for their own accommodation and living expenses.

5. What happens after the fellowship ends?

Fellows submit a post-fellowship report, which is published by CJF, and gain alumni status within the CJF professional network.

6. Is the fellowship considered employment?

The fellowship is a paid training and professional development opportunity rather than a permanent employment contract.

Conclusion

The Canadian Journalism Foundation Black Journalism Fellowship Program offers a high-impact pathway for Black journalists to gain newsroom experience, build professional credibility, and contribute to more inclusive Canadian media.

With competitive funding, placements at leading news organizations, and a strong focus on representation and leadership, this fellowship is a valuable opportunity for aspiring Black media professionals ready to shape the future of journalism in Canada.