What's Happening?
Mongabay, a non-profit conservation and environmental science platform, is expanding its fellowship program aimed at empowering local journalists in the Global South. The initiative, known as the Y. Eva
Tan Fellowship, has been operational since 2022 and has trained approximately 40 early-career journalists across Asia, Africa, and Latin America. The program pairs local knowledge with professional guidance to enhance the quality and trustworthiness of environmental reporting. Mongabay plans to expand the fellowship in 2026 by adding Indonesian and Portuguese language programs, doubling the slots in its English program, and increasing opportunities for Spanish-speaking journalists. The expansion also includes continuing the Amazon Indigenous communicators initiative.
Why It's Important?
The expansion of Mongabay's fellowship program is significant as it addresses the imbalance in global environmental reporting, where much of the narrative originates from the North despite the most severe consequences being felt in the South. By empowering local journalists, the program aims to shift the narrative from victimhood to agency, enabling communities to make informed decisions about environmental issues. This initiative not only strengthens journalism but also contributes to conservation efforts by providing credible reports that can influence public debate and policy decisions. The fellowship offers training in science, economics, and law, along with safety nets like legal advice and digital-security guidance, which are crucial for effective environmental reporting.
What's Next?
Mongabay's expansion of its fellowship program in 2026 will include new language offerings and increased slots, which will likely lead to a broader impact on environmental journalism. The initiative is expected to produce more trained journalists who can mentor others, thereby creating a sustainable cycle of informed reporting. This expansion may also lead to increased collaboration with national and international media outlets, further amplifying the voices of local journalists. As the program grows, it could potentially influence environmental policy and governance by providing more comprehensive and locally-informed reports.
Beyond the Headlines
The fellowship program not only enhances journalism but also serves as a form of environmental governance. By equipping journalists with the skills to produce credible reports, the initiative helps hold governments and corporations accountable for environmental practices. This empowerment of local voices can lead to tangible changes, such as the cancellation of harmful concessions or the protection of community rights. The program also highlights the importance of diversity in environmental reporting, as local journalists bring unique insights into language, politics, and power dynamics that outsiders may overlook.
