The Fulcrum Next Generation Journalism Fellowship is a 10-week immersive program that trains students from across the country in solutions journalism and complicating-the-narrative techniques. Fellows learn to produce stories that counter one‑dimensional narratives too common in mainstream media and amplify underrepresented voices and perspectives.
Since its launch in 2025, the Fellowship has nurtured young journalists who are committed to equity, inclusion, and civic engagement.
In 2026, The Fulcrum will join forces with the Hortencia Zavala Foundation to expand opportunities for the next generation of journalists. Together, they are growing
The Fulcrum Fellowship, hosting two student cohorts—one in the summer and one in the fall. Its reach, offering more students the chance to gain hands‑on experience in reporting that strengthens democracy and builds trust in civic dialogue, doubles the program's reach.
Hugo Balta, Executive Editor of The Fulcrum, leads the initiative. "The Fellowship is more than a training program—it’s a commitment to building a new generation of journalists who listen deeply, report with integrity, and reflect the diversity of our nation. The partnership allows us to expand that mission and ensure more students have the tools to tell stories that matter.”
This partnership reflects both organizations' ongoing investment in student success, ensuring that aspiring journalists—especially those from underrepresented
communities—have access to mentorship, training, and professional opportunities that prepare them to thrive in the media industry.
"Together, The Fulcrum and the Hortencia Zavala Foundation are building a pipeline of diverse, equity‑minded journalists who will shape the future of civic media," said David L. Nevins.
