Do you love news media and aim to make it a career, yet lack enough on-the-job training and practical education? The Africa Elevate Scholarship programme is specifically designed to provide a leg-up for talented people – to elevate careers with a spark that INMA is uniquely in a position to provide. Apply below:
Application Deadline:
April 17, 2026 (11:59 p.m. in your time zone).
Tell Me About The Award:
The Elevate Africa Initiative, organized by the International News Media Association (INMA), is designed to elevate news media professionals in Africa through regional training, mentorship, and leadership development. The Africa Elevate Scholarship specifically focuses on empowering young professionals by providing mentorship, exposure to global best practices, and training on the business side of journalism.
Which Fields are Eligible?
- News media professionals working in:
- Audience development
- Product & technology
- Advertising & marketing
- Data & subscriptions
- Newsroom innovation (business of journalism focus)
Type:
- Professional Mentorship & Training Scholarship
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be employed by a news media organization in Africa.
- Be under 35 years old.
- Have less than 5 years of experience in the news industry.
- Be physically based full-time in Africa.
- Be below senior management level.
- Demonstrate a need for on-the-job training and education.
- Aspire to a long-term career in news media and leadership.
- Commit to participating in all four modules.
How are Applicants Selected?
- Selection is based on eligibility criteria and demonstrated need for training.
- Preference given to professionals lacking sufficient on-the-job training or formal education.
- Up to 50 professionals will be chosen from diverse news media companies across Africa.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- All African countries.
Where will the Award be Taken?
- Conducted virtually through INMA’s online platforms.
- Includes access to global master classes and mentorship-focused modules.
How Many Awards?
- Up to 50 scholarships available.
What is the Benefit of the Award?
- Registration to two global master classes (topics include subscriber retention, AI in newsrooms, product & tech, digital advertising, young audiences).
- Two Africa-focused mentorship modules:
- Navigating the corridors of power in media.
- Understanding the business of media.
- Access to livestream modules and recordings.
- Private WhatsApp group for peer networking.
- Recognition of selection and certification upon completion.
- One year of INMA individual membership.
How Long Will the Award Last?
- Runs across multiple modules and master classes from June 2026 to April 2027.
How to Apply:
- Confirm eligibility (African news media professional, under 35, less than 5 years in industry).
- Complete the online application form via INMA’s portal.
- Submit before April 17, 2026.
- Successful applicants will be announced on May 28, 2026.
Visit the Application Webpage for Details
