Could your journalism reach an international stage? The Thomson Foundation Young Journalist Award brings international recognition and opportunities to meet international editors.
Application Deadline:
- 9 August 2026
Tell Me About The Award:
The Young Journalist Award is one of the most prestigious global competitions for emerging reporters, organised by the Thomson Foundation. It recognises powerful journalism from countries with limited resources, giving young journalists an international platform to showcase their work.
Three finalists will be flown to London to attend the Foreign Press Association Media Awards on 30 November 2026, where the winner will be announced. Finalists also visit major newsrooms and take part in bespoke training sessions to strengthen their reporting skills and networks.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Entries can be in:
- Print Journalism
- Audio Reporting
- Video Journalism
- Multimedia Storytelling
Type:
- Global Competition | Journalism | Emerging Talent
Who can apply?
Applicants must:
- Be 30 years old or under on 30 November 2026.
- Be from, or reporting in, a country with GNI per capita ≤ USD 20,000.
- Submit three pieces of published or broadcast work (produced between August 2025 and August 2026).
- Provide a verification letter from an editor or commissioning editor confirming authorship.
How are applicants selected?
Judges assess entries based on:
- Originality and courage.
- Investigative depth and accountability.
- Human‑centred storytelling.
- Impact and relevance.
- Professionalism and clarity.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- All countries worldwide with GNI per capita ≤ USD 20,000.
Where will the competition be held?
- London, United Kingdom (Foreign Press Association Media Awards).
How Many Awards?
- Three finalists invited to London.
- One overall winner announced at the awards ceremony.
What is the benefit of the award?
- All‑expenses‑paid trip to London for finalists.
- Training sessions with leading journalists.
- Networking opportunities in major newsrooms.
- International recognition and career advancement.
How Long Will the Award Last?
- Entries open until 9 August 2026.
- Finalists announced in November 2026.
- Awards ceremony on 30 November 2026.
Required Documents:
- Three published/broadcast works.
- Verification letter from editor/commissioning editor.
- Personal details (age, country, contact info).
How to Apply:
- Prepare three pieces of published/broadcast work.
- Obtain verification letter from editor.
- Submit online application before 9 August 2026.
