The Problem  

Indigenous journalists are significantly underrepresented in Canadian newsrooms, which limits the perspectives and stories that are shared with the public. This lack of representation can contribute to a media landscape that fails to fully capture the diversity of experiences within Indigenous communities.

Statistical Support

According to the 2023 CAJ Newsroom Diversity Survey, only 6% of journalists in participating Canadian newsrooms are Indigenous. This highlights the ongoing need for targeted initiatives that support and elevate Indigenous voices in the media industry.

The Program

Since its inception in 2014, the CJF-CBC Indigenous Journalism Fellowships program has aimed to address this gap by providing Indigenous journalists with the opportunity to gain experience, mentorship, and professional development at leading news organizations across Canada. To date, 20 fellows have participated in the program, contributing to a richer, more inclusive media narrative.

The Result/Impact

The CJF Indigenous Journalism Fellowships have been instrumental in supporting the development of Indigenous journalists, with 80% of fellows currently working in Canadian journalism, and the remaining 20% in journalism-adjacent roles directly benefited by their fellowship experiences. This program is not only fostering individual career growth but also enriching the Canadian media landscape by ensuring that Indigenous perspectives and stories are more widely represented. Through their work, these fellows are helping to build a more accurate and inclusive portrayal of Indigenous communities in Canada.

The Problem

Since the onset of the “Post-Truth Era” and the rapid rise of social media, Canadians of all ages have been increasingly exposed to misinformation and disinformation, making it more challenging to distinguish credible news from falsehoods. This pervasive issue threatens to erode trust in journalism, undermine the foundation of an informed citizenry, and weaken the fabric of democracy.

Statistical Support 

CJF survey data from 2017 to 2023 consistently shows that Canadians are growing more concerned about the spread of misinformation. In recent years, more than 85% of Canadians have expressed significant worries about the impact of false information on society, highlighting the urgent need for robust news literacy initiatives.

The Program 

Since 2017, the CJF’s News Literacy Program has been dedicated to educating Canadians – from school-aged children to senior citizens – on how to critically evaluate news and identify trustworthy information. The program has evolved to meet the challenges of the digital age, launching national campaigns including NewsWise, Doubt It?, Keep Truth Well, and Keep Truth Human, all aimed at combating the spread of misinformation and disinformation, particularly in the context of the rising influence of AI in media.

The Result/Impact

The CJF News Literacy Program has played a crucial role in empowering Canadians across all age groups to become more discerning consumers of news. By continuously adapting to the shifting media landscape, the program has made significant strides in fostering a more informed public and strengthening democracy. These efforts have bolstered citizens’ ability to navigate the complexities of modern media, reinforcing trust in credible journalism and contributing to a more resilient and vibrant democratic society.

The Problem

In an era where professional development budgets are shrinking, many journalists, media professionals, and students face limited opportunities to engage with industry thought-leaders, explore current challenges, and develop their skills. As newsrooms continue to adapt to the rapidly evolving digital landscape, access to high-quality, relevant discussions and training is essential for maintaining the standards of journalism that serve democratic societies.

Statistical Support

According to a 2023 survey by the Canadian Association of Journalists (CAJ), 60% of Canadian journalists reported a reduction in professional development opportunities due to budget cuts. This decline threatens the ability of journalists to stay informed about emerging trends, technologies, and the evolving role of the media in society.

The Program

The CJF J-Talks public speakers’ series addresses this gap by providing a platform for dialogue among journalists, business leaders, academics, and students. Since theirinception, the J-Talks have attracted a diverse array of media thought-leaders from both Canada and abroad, fostering discussions on the most pressing issues facing the media today. Topics have included the impact of artificial intelligence on journalism, the role of media in shaping public discourse, and strategies for engaging audiences in the digital age.

The Result/Impact

CJF J-Talks have become an invaluable resource for media professionals seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills in an era of shrinking professional development budgets. In 2023 alone, the J-Talks series featured 36 speakers and attracted nearly 2,000 attendees, offering critical insights and sparking important conversations that help shape the future of journalism in Canada. By bringing together diverse voices and perspectives, CJF J-Talks contribute to a more informed and engaged media landscape, ensuring that journalists can continue to uphold the principles of accountability, ethics, and public service in their work.

The Problem 

For many journalism students in Canada, the financial burden of education, coupled with the costs of living expenses and gaining real-world experience, creates significant barriers to pursuing meaningful career development opportunities. These financial strains often limit access to the hands-on experiences that are crucial for entering the journalism profession and contributing to the future of media.

Statistical Support

According to Statistics Canada, in May 2024, the employment rate for returning students aged 20 to 24 years was 61.0%, indicating that many students must work while attending school. Recognizing these challenges, the Canadian Journalism Foundation (CJF), in partnership with J-Schools Canada-Écoles-J Canada (JSC-ÉJC) and supported by the Google News Initiative, launched a $200,000 bursary program aimed at reducing these barriers. The program provides funding for up to 100 bursaries, each offering financial support of up to $5,000 to journalism students across Canada.

The Program 

The Next-Generation Journalists Bursary Program was established to empower the next wave of Canadian journalists by alleviating the financial pressures that can impede their educational and professional growth. Open to full- or part-time students enrolled in journalism degree or diploma programs at JSC-ÉJC member institutions, this bursary helps students cover both educational costs and living expenses, enabling them to fully engage in valuable career development opportunities during the 2024 calendar year. These opportunities are carefully curated and approved by their respective institutions to ensure they are meaningful and aligned with the students’ professional aspirations.

The Result/Impact

By providing financial assistance to up to 100 journalism students, the Next-Generation Journalists Bursary Program is breaking down economic barriers that hinder access to essential career-building experiences. This initiative not only supports individual students but also contributes to the broader goal of fostering excellence in journalism. As these students gain the skills and experience needed to thrive in the media industry, they help create a more inclusive, dynamic, and diverse media landscape in Canada. Through this program, the CJF, JSC-ÉJC, and the Google News Initiative are investing in the future of journalism, ensuring that the next generation of journalists is well-equipped to advance the industry and uphold the values of quality reporting.