Scholarship Overview
Overview
The Naija Feminists Media (NFM) 2026 Editorial Fellowship is a specialized training program for African journalists and media professionals focused on reproductive health and rights. Running from October 26 to December 11, 2026, the fellowship coincides with the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign.
The program selects 16 fellows who will produce original investigative stories examining reproductive healthcare access, safe abortion, policy barriers, and the lived realities of women and girls across Africa. Stories will be published on Naija Feminists Media platforms during the 16 Days of Activism to drive public education and policy accountability.
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What the Fellowship Covers
Fellows receive comprehensive professional development support including:
- Mentorship: Guidance from experienced media professionals, healthcare experts, and reproductive rights advocates
- Publication: Guaranteed placement on Naija Feminists Media, a leading Nigeria-based women-focused news platform
- Networking: Connections with journalists, activists, healthcare professionals, and media leaders across Africa
- Global Visibility: Contribution to an international campaign during #16DaysofActivism
- Certification: Certificate of Participation upon fellowship completion
The fellowship does not specify monetary stipends or travel funding in available materials.
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Program Structure and Dates
The fellowship spans approximately seven weeks:
- Start Date: October 26, 2026
- End Date: December 11, 2026
- Publication Window: During the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence
Each fellow produces one original investigative story addressing lived realities, contributing factors, barriers, and potential solutions related to reproductive rights.
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Who Can Apply
The fellowship is open to journalists and media professionals across Africa who demonstrate:
- Commitment to gender storytelling and feminist journalism
- Passion for social justice and challenging harmful narratives
- Professional background in media (reporters, editors, producers, or related roles)
- Innovative approaches to driving systemic change through storytelling
There are no restrictions based on years of experience, age, or specific educational qualifications. The program particularly values applicants committed to long-term impact in journalism and advocacy.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:
- A 200-word pitch outlining a specific story idea on reproductive rights they intend to pursue
- Application submitted through the official online portal
The pitch should demonstrate understanding of reproductive health issues, including potential angles on healthcare access, policy barriers, safe abortion, neonatal care, or cultural and economic obstacles facing women and girls.
How to Apply
Follow these steps to submit your application:
- Develop your story pitch (maximum 200 words) focusing on reproductive rights in your country or region
- Ensure your pitch addresses lived realities, barriers, and potential solutions or accountability angles
- Access the application through the official link provided by Naija Feminists Media
- Complete all required fields and upload your pitch
- Submit before the deadline
Selection Criteria
While not explicitly detailed, the fellowship emphasizes:
- Innovation in storytelling approaches
- Commitment to gender-inclusive and ethical reporting
- Potential for policy impact and public discourse contribution
- Alignment with feminist journalism principles
- Feasibility of proposed story within the fellowship timeframe
Why This Fellowship Matters for SADC Journalists
For journalists from Zimbabwe and other SADC nations, this fellowship offers strategic value:
- Regional Relevance: Reproductive health barriers—including limited abortion access, maternal mortality, and contraceptive challenges—are acute across Southern Africa
- Platform Amplification: Naija Feminists Media provides established readership for stories often underreported in mainstream outlets
- Network Building: Connections with West African and continental media professionals strengthen cross-regional reporting capacity
- Policy Impact: Published stories during 16 Days of Activism reach policymakers and advocacy networks when attention is focused on gender-based violence
About Naija Feminists Media
Naija Feminists Media is a Nigeria-based digital news platform dedicated to feminist journalism and gender reporting. The organization produces investigative content on women’s rights, gender-based violence, reproductive justice, and systemic inequality across Africa. The editorial fellowship represents part of its broader mission to build capacity for gender-sensitive reporting and challenge misinformation and stigma surrounding women’s health issues.
