Lyra McKee Bursary: Empowering Diverse Journalists

0:00On March 25th, applications are now open for the 2026 Lyra McKee Bursary Scheme. Run by the Center for Investigative Journalism, this program helps early career reporters from underrepresented groups break into the field. It honors Lyra McKee, the Belfast Journalist, killed by dissident Republicans in Dairy back in 2019. This marks the seventh group of participants for the five-month course, which mixes training, mentoring, and practical work. A big new perk this year. Every graduate gets considered for a fellowship with Investigate Europe. That means one or two paid part-time remote roles for hands-on international reporting experience. The program boasts solid results, with roughly 45% of alumni securing journalism jobs, much better than the typical industry rate. Many have landed spots at top outlets like the BBC, the Guardian, and the Belfast Telegraph, and others have picked up awards along the way. You'll get training at the CIG Summer Conference in London, online data journalism classes,

1:01guidance from season pros, and a chance to pitch stories. Directly to editors from the UK and Ireland. It's aimed at UK and Republic of Ireland residents aged 18 or older, facing money barriers, with extra encouragement for people of color, those. With disabilities, carers, and LGBTQ plus community members, deadlines are coming up fast, with applications closing April 6, 2026, and the program kicking off in mid-May. This keeps building pathways for diverse voices in journalism. Stay informed with Europe News today, AI-powered updates.