Kyiv Independent launches an English-speaking journalism school

Credit: Kyiv Independent

Ukrainian news organisation Kyiv Independent has launched a journalism school to teach international reporting for foreign audiences.

The Kyiv Independent J-school consists of a 10-day training course covering the basics of its reporting, a chance to pitch stories to editors, and the possibility of a paid internship afterwards.

It starts on 1 December 2023 and can support up to 25 successful applicants working both in-person and from a distance. The school is free to attend because most of its funding comes from UNESCO.

It primarily aims to teach reporting in English for international audiences, which is central to Kyiv Independent's mission since launching two years ago in response to media capture in the country.

"We feel Kyiv Independent is a bridge between Ukraine and the rest of the world," says CEO Daryna Shevchenko.

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Ukrainians have quite a few options to enter the journalism profession, from media development initiatives to other journalism schools. But these are often outdated, focusing on old norms and reporting in Ukrainian.

The Kyiv Independent J-school wants to appeal to new, young professionals. And though the news organisation is a relatively new one, its staffers are experienced and can help aspiring reporters see the historical context behind the country's current conflict.

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To be eligible, applicants should be; freelancers or staff reporters or editors from independent Ukrainian media outlets; have achieved level B2 or higher in the English language; have at least one year of experience in journalism; and preferably show evidence of decision-making in a regional or hyperlocal newsroom.

The J-school is also welcoming guest speakers from foreign news organisations and is inviting industry professionals to get involved. Contact Daryna Shevchenko for more information. Applications close on 20 November 2023, apply here.

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