Household names to inspire emerging Jewish journalists

An array of household names are set to inspire the next generation of Jewish writers as part of Jewish News and Jewish Renaissance (JR) magazine’s Emerging Journalists Programme.

Featuring masterclasses, expert panels, mentoring and publication opportunities, plus a writing competition with cash prizes, the scheme – launching today in conjunction with the UJS and sponsored by Dangoor Education – offers a solid base from which to launch a career in the media.

Jewish News’ Justin Cohen said: “A programme offering contact with and expertise from journalists at the very top of their game in print, broadcast and podcasting is a rarity. We are proud to be working with JR and Dangoor Education to bring this opportunity to young and not so young members of the community and hope to discover some of the stars of our industry in the process.”

Jewish Renaissance’s executive director Dr Aviva Dautch said: “In the current climate, strong clear voices reporting on what’s happening in the world are more necessary than ever. We want to develop a cohort of  journalists with the skills to investigate and articulate Jewish stories.” She added: “We’re looking for students trying to break into the field or those wanting a career change and willing to learn. Our programme is online and will be as accessible as possible.”

Editor Rebecca Taylor added: “In this age of fake truth and citizen journalism, it’s more crucial than ever that our media has journalists skilled in researching, sourcing and articulating stories that need to be told – in particular tackling issues around identity, antisemitism and the Middle East. Such a programme would have been invaluable when I was starting out in journalism. How inspiring to have access to so many experienced, impressive seasoned journalists. That’s something very special indeed.”

Danielle Goldstein, Jewish Renaissance’s deputy editor, added: “With the experts we have teaching, it’ll be like having a cheat sheet into journalism. This is an invaluable programme for a journalist entering the field for the first time. And a course like this would usually have a hefty fee, but ours is free, so we can ensure that anyone, of any age and from any background, can participate.”

Alongside masterclasses there will be a public programme of panel discussions with journalists at the BBC, The Guardian, Haaretz, The Jerusalem Post, The Times and more.

Emma Brand, programme producer, said: “The public talks series features a breadth of voices from some of the UK and Israel’s foremost publications and broadcasters. We hope to inspire our emerging journalists and offer them vital networking opportunities.”

The online programme is free of charge and open to emerging journalists around the world, but all events will be scheduled in UK time (GMT).

APPLICATIONS DUE: WEDNESDAY 18 OCTOBER

Click here for full programme details and to apply