What's Happening?
Mongabay, a non-profit conservation and environmental science platform, is expanding its fellowship program in 2026 to include Indonesian and Portuguese languages, while doubling slots in its English program. The initiative aims to empower local journalists
in Asia, Africa, and Latin America by providing mentorship, funding, and editorial support. Since 2022, the Y. Eva Tan Fellowship has trained approximately 40 early-career journalists, enhancing their ability to report on environmental issues. The program seeks to bridge the gap between curiosity and capability, enabling journalists to produce impactful stories that can influence public debate and policy.
Why It's Important?
The expansion of Mongabay's fellowship program is crucial for strengthening environmental journalism, particularly in regions most affected by climate change and biodiversity loss. By investing in local voices, the program addresses the imbalance in global environmental reporting, which often originates from the Global North. Empowering journalists with local knowledge and professional guidance ensures more accurate and culturally relevant coverage. This initiative not only supports the development of skilled journalists but also contributes to informed public discourse and policy-making, potentially leading to better environmental governance and conservation efforts.
What's Next?
Mongabay plans to continue expanding its fellowship opportunities, including increasing Spanish language slots and supporting the Amazon Indigenous communicators initiative. As the program grows, it will likely produce a new generation of environmental journalists who can lead coverage in their regions. This expansion may also inspire other organizations to invest in similar initiatives, further strengthening the global network of environmental reporters. The program's success could lead to increased collaboration between local journalists and international media outlets, enhancing the visibility and impact of environmental stories.
Beyond the Headlines
The fellowship program highlights the ethical importance of supporting journalism in regions facing severe environmental challenges. By providing training and resources, Mongabay is fostering a culture of accountability and transparency in environmental reporting. This initiative also addresses the need for diverse perspectives in global media, challenging the dominance of narratives from the Global North. As local journalists gain prominence, they can shift the focus from victimhood to agency, empowering communities to take action against environmental threats.
