About the opportunity
The MWP Emerging Women Journalists Fellowship 2026–27 is a professional development programme designed to support women from migrant and adversely racialised backgrounds who are based in Scotland. Running from October 2026 to April 2027, the Fellowship provides professional training, one-to-one mentoring, editorial support to research and produce an original feature story, an industry placement, networking opportunities, print publication, and a £600 participation stipend.
Funding and benefits
- £600 Fellowship stipend to support participation in the programme.
- Professional training led by journalists, editors, and media professionals covering multimedia storytelling, fact-checking, media law, AI, and investigative reporting.
- One-to-one mentoring with an experienced journalist or media professional.
- Editorial support to research, report, and produce an original feature story.
- Industry placement with a media organisation, newsroom, or communications team.
- Publication in the Fellowship's print magazine and participation in the final event in Glasgow.
Who can apply?
- Must be based in Scotland.
- Must identify as being from a migrant and/or adversely racialised background (trans-inclusive).
- Must be currently studying journalism, media, communications, or a related subject, or have graduated within the last three years.
- Must be interested in developing skills and experience in journalism, media, or communications.
- Must be able to participate in the programme between October 2026 and April 2027.
- Open to diverse migration experiences including international students, refugees, asylum seekers, and 1st, 2nd, or 3rd generation migrants.
Required documents
- Completed online application form.
- A pitch for one original feature story idea connecting to Scotland or communities in Scotland.
- One example of previous work (can be academic, student, independent, community, or published).
When to apply
- Applications close on Sunday, 13 September 2026.
- Successful applicants will be contacted by the end of September 2026.
- The Fellowship programme runs from October 2026 through April 2027.
How to apply
- Review the Fellowship Concept Note, Applicant Guide & Q&A, and Programme at a Glance resources.
- Prepare a feature story pitch that connects to Scotland or communities living in Scotland.
- Select one work sample to showcase your curiosity and interests.
- Complete and submit the online application form before Sunday, 13 September 2026.
- Contact migrantwomenpress@gmail.com if reasonable adjustments or accessibility support are needed.
Additional information
- There are 8 Fellowship places available.
- Most training and mentoring take place online, with select in-person activities in Scotland.
- Applications are evaluated on potential, motivation, curiosity, and ideas rather than prior professional publishing experience.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Women from migrant or adversely racialised backgrounds based in Scotland.
- Recent graduates (within three years) or current students of journalism, media, or communications.
- Individuals with a strong curiosity and a compelling pitch for a feature story connected to Scotland.
What should you think carefully about?
- The program is highly competitive with only 8 available places.
- The £600 stipend is a participation support payment, not a full salary.
- Applicants must be based in Scotland and meet specific identity and background requirements.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This fellowship is designed for those looking to break into the media industry through structured training, one-to-one mentoring, and an industry placement. It is a perfect stepping stone for those wanting to produce a published original feature story and expand their professional network in Scotland.
Our take
An excellent professional development opportunity for emerging women journalists from migrant backgrounds based in Scotland.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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