Apply for the William Southam Journalism Fellowship 2027: Fully Funded Opportunity in Canada for African and Middle Eastern Journalists with 7+ Years’ Experience

Overview

The William Southam Journalism Fellowship is hosted at Massey College, a graduate residential college at the University of Toronto in Canada. This program provides established media professionals with an opportunity to advance their careers, engage with a multidisciplinary academic community, and explore new areas of study within an academic environment. One place is available for a journalist from Sub-Saharan Africa or the Middle East.

Who can apply

This opportunity is open to established journalists originating from Sub-Saharan Africa or the Middle East. Candidates must possess at least seven years of professional journalism experience and demonstrate fluency in both written and spoken English.

Requirements

Applicants must submit a current curriculum vitae in PDF format and a professional biography of no more than 500 words describing their past experience and future career plans. A statement of intent of up to 750 words is required to explain why the applicant wishes to be considered, which courses of study would support their professional development, how they would benefit from the multidisciplinary environment, and how they would contribute to the community. Additional written submissions include information on interests, clubs, hobbies, and volunteer activities up to 500 words, a description of up to 100 words detailing how the applicant discovered the fellowship, and up to 200 words of additional information for the admissions committee. Candidates must also provide three work samples in PDF format published or produced within the previous two years, along with the names, professional positions, and email addresses of two professional or academic referees who will be contacted automatically to upload confidential reference letters.

How to apply

Candidates must visit the official Massey College website to locate the William Southam Journalism Fellows information and the online application form. Applicants should review all eligibility requirements and instructions, prepare the required personal documents and recent journalism work samples, obtain agreement from two referees, and complete and submit the online application prior to the closing date.

Key dates

Applications open on October 1, 2026, and close on December 1, 2026.