Internews launches Earth Shorts to boost environmental storytelling

Connecting Media Communities 2026 hosts 80 global experts

The sixth edition of the Connecting Media Communities 2026 event will host approximately 80 participants, including journalists, fact-checkers, media organisations, and content creators. These experts will examine how to build trust in an era defined by artificial intelligence.

The programme will cover information trends, the role of independent journalism, and how audiences access and evaluate information. It also addresses the need to protect information integrity against foreign information manipulation and interference.

Organisers intend for the conference to build networks and collaboration among attendees. The event aims to deepen engagement between the global media community, the European External Action Service, and various European Union partners.

EJN opens grant applications for environmental reporting

The Earth Journalism Network is accepting grant applications for reporting on the environmental and health impacts of extraction industries until 1 December. The funding covers projects focused on sectors such as mining.

Eligible reporting will include work from countries such as South Africa, Uganda, Ghana, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

MCM fellowship fosters diverse multimedia storytelling

The Montgomery Community Media (MCM) fellowship provides emerging multimedia storytellers with opportunities to build professional connections and improve their reporting skills. These fellows are content creators who use digital media to amplify underrepresented voices and reflect the diversity of Montgomery County.

The programme aims to support BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ voices through digital storytelling. This approach is intended to build community connections and encourage inclusive narratives.

Emerging storytellers join 2026 MCM fellowship program

Aylin Aarhus, a University of Maryland student and Montgomery County resident, is a Digital Futures Institute Fellow.

Harry Ashery, a filmmaker and Towson University student from Clarksburg, Maryland, founded the Queer Cinema Club. He directed the short film "Drawn to Him," which the University of Maryland’s Terrapin Film Festival recognised.

She reports and photographs for her school newspaper, aiming to highlight untold stories in sports.

Margot Buehler, an MCM fellow from Rockville, Maryland, is a rising junior at Wellesley College. She manages digital operations for The Wellesley News as its managing digital editor.

Sierra Green, an MCM fellow and University of Maryland journalism student, has experience with Terrapin Sports Central and La Voz Latina. She also worked with the Washington Spirit.

Dariana Guzman is a Prince George’s County resident and University of Maryland journalism student participating as a DFI Fellow. Christina Harvin, also from Prince George’s County, is a University of Maryland student and DFI Fellow who aspires to be a documentary filmmaker.

Lael Ingram is a Howard University student from Cincinnati, Ohio, and a DFI Fellow.

Sheridan Lee is a DFI Fellow and Syracuse University student pursuing dual majors in Political Science and Broadcast and Digital Journalism.

Renny Majano Rivera is a Honduran-Salvadoran filmmaker and multimedia storyteller who recently graduated from the University of Maryland. He joined the fellowship to improve his reporting skills and create impactful stories about identity, community, and culture.

Dan Nathan is an Electronic Media and Film student at Towson University and an intern at Capitol Hoops. He creates digital video content and joined the fellowship to enhance his production skills and network for a sports media career.

Sean Whitfield is a former NCAA student-athlete who graduated from Goucher College and the University of Maryland. He has experience with The Minor Football League and aims to tell authentic stories about local businesses.

Julian Lee is a Montgomery County native and George Mason University graduate. He focuses on media production and operates a channel called "Purple Hoodie Productions," with an interest in BIPOC and LGBTQ mental health stories.

Danish Hussain highlights necessity of digital visibility

Freelance photojournalist Danish Hussain stated that digital visibility and online presence are vital for journalists, content creators, and businesses to reach their target audiences. Hussain, originally from Baramulla, works in the fields of journalism, photojournalism, and digital marketing.

His work centres on digital visibility, SEO, and website optimisation to help brands connect with audiences.