Hey Mzansi journalists! 👋 Ready to level up your career on an international stage? We’ve got something truly incredible for you today: the **Knight-Wallace Journalism Fellowship**!
Imagine spending an entire academic year at the prestigious University of Michigan in the USA, fully funded, just to sharpen your skills, dive deep into a passion project, and expand your global network. This isn’t just any old bursary; it’s a world-class fellowship specifically designed for mid-career journalists like you. It gives you the time, resources, and freedom to step away from daily deadlines and focus on a project that truly matters to your craft and the future of journalism.
Think of it as a professional sabbatical with serious perks, helping you grow personally and professionally, and bring fresh ideas back to the South African media landscape. Whether you want to master new skills, tackle a newsroom challenge, conduct in-depth research, or even launch a new journalism venture, this fellowship is your golden ticket!
Who Can Apply?
So, who’s eligible for this amazing opportunity? Listen up:
- You need a **minimum of five years of experience** in journalism.
- You must be currently working in journalism, either for a news organization or as an independent journalist.
- They’re looking for a diverse mix of journalists – think reporters, editors, data experts, visual journalists, audio producers, engagement specialists, designers, developers, and even change agents!
- **Important:** If you’re not a full-time journalist, the majority of your work must be in journalism. This isn’t for full-time academics, public relations professionals, lobbyists, or those solely focused on getting a degree.
- **For South African applicants:** You will apply as an **international applicant**.
What Does It Cover?
Get ready for some serious perks! This fellowship is designed to remove financial barriers so you can focus entirely on your growth. Here’s a snapshot of what’s included:
- An **eight-month immersive program** (from late August through April) away from the daily grind.
- Support for your **individual journalism project**, allowing you to gain depth, new skills, or explore a venture.
- Access to **specialized resources and world-class faculty** at the University of Michigan.
- **Private seminars** with top newsroom leaders and experts.
- **Workshops** to boost your professional skills and leadership abilities.
- **International travel** experiences to broaden your global perspective.
- A generous **$85,000 stipend**, plus an additional **$5,000 for relocation expenses** (distributed monthly).
- Costs for health insurance, auditing courses, and participation in fellowship activities are covered by Wallace House.
- **Individual relocation support** and assistance with finding housing.
- Your **spouse or partner** is also invited to participate in fellowship activities and audit university courses! How cool is that?
How to Apply?
Ready to jump in? Here’s what you need to know about applying for the 2026-2027 academic year:
- **Application Deadline for International Applicants (that’s you, Mzansi!):** **December 1, 2025.**
- Fellowship offers for international applicants are usually extended by mid-February 2026.
- Remember, if you’re awarded the fellowship, you’ll need to maintain residency in Ann Arbor, USA, for the entire program and make it your primary professional focus.
For more detailed information and to start your application, visit the official webpage:
**Visit the Official Knight-Wallace Journalism Fellowship Webpage Here!**
So, if you’re a passionate South African journalist with a hunger for growth and global experience, this Knight-Wallace Journalism Bursary is calling your name! Don’t let this incredible opportunity pass you by. Click that link, get your application ready, and remember to explore more amazing opportunities right here on Bursaries Room!
