Are you a young Ghanaian female journalism graduate or an early-career journalist passionate about investigative and accountability journalism?
Recognising the underrepresentation of women in investigative journalism, the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), with funding from the European Union through International Media Support, is inviting applications from young female journalism graduates, early career journalists and other young professionals with a passion for accountability journalism in Ghana to participate in a 12-month mentorship programme.
The mentorship programme seeks to promote gender inclusion, diversity, and ethical reporting by nurturing five women, empowering them to become influential voices in countering disinformation and advancing accountability.
This initiative is part of the activities being implemented by the MFWA under the project titled “African Media Integrity and Resilience Programme”.
Format
The mentorship programme is hybrid. That is:
a) 2 months of in-person residential training (with accommodation provided at a designated location)
b) 10 months of virtual mentorship, which will include coaching and professional support with experienced female news editors and governance experts
c) Within the 10 months, there will also be a 6-month newsroom attachment with the MFWA’s investigative journalism project, The Fourth Estate
What to Expect
a) Training on investigative approaches to governance and policy issues, leadership, mobile journalism, fact-checking, multimedia storytelling, content production for digital platforms, and women’s safety in journalism
b) Mentorship and professional coaching with experienced female news editors and governance experts
c) Financial and editorial support to produce at least five investigative stories
d) A certificate of honour upon successful completion
e) Monthly stipend
Eligibility
a) Open to female Ghanaian journalism graduates, early-career journalists and young professionals with a passion for accountability journalism
b) Applicants must commit to full participation in the hybrid programme from July 2026 to June 2027
c) Eligible applicants particularly in the Greater Accra, Eastern, Central, Ashanti, Bono East, Savannah, Northern and Upper West Regions are strongly encouraged to apply
How to Apply
Send the following documents to [email protected] with the subject ” Application for Female IJ Mentorship”
a) Motivation letter (Max. 300 words) detailing why you should be considered for the mentorship programme
b) Links to two published news articles (print, TV, radio, or online) for journalists or published blog posts for other professionals
c) Letter of consent from your employer (for staff journalists)
d) CV with two referees
Note: Deadline falls on May 27, 2026. This opportunity is open for female Ghanaian nationals. For enquiries, contact Josephine Badu-Nyarko on 0547043404 or josephine[@]mfwa.org.
