Bursary recipients

Thanks to the NCTJ Diversity Fund, Aideen will undertake the MA Journalism course at Ulster University in September, following on from her previous three years of undergraduate study.

Coming from a working-class background, Aideen brings diversity to the newsroom through her experiences living in rural Mid-Ulster where there remain a range of under-represented voices. She currently works for the Tyrone Courier where she ensures that these stories are told.

Aideen holds a particular passion for community-based journalism as well as gender-related issues. She has successfully worked alongside Women in Media Belfast and Women’s Aid to promote better journalism around gender-based violence.

Having written for various newspapers during her time in Oxford, as well as presenting events guides for BBC West Midlands, Alex is excited to start the qualification and further progress her journalism experience under the mentoring and skills that the NCTJ have to offer.

She has recently completed her BA English Language and Literature degree at Oxford University, and is keen to bring diversity to the newsroom with her experience as a care leaver, giving a voice to those who often feel unseen

Courtney-Jamal (aka Deluded Gooner) is a YouTuber-turned-freelance sports broadcaster and SJA-nominated commentator who has worked with UEFA, BBC, Arsenal, The Sun, and TalkSport.

He will begin his NCTJ Diploma in Multimedia Journalism in November 2025, with ambitions of becoming a video journalist. Courtney-Jamal brings diversity, authenticity, and a strong digital presence to the newsroom, offering a voice that resonates with underrepresented football audiences.

His YouTube channel, Deluded Gooner, has built a loyal community through insightful football analysis and passionate commentary

Ikraan is a Somali, Black, hijab-wearing Muslim woman whose trifactor identity brings a vital and underrepresented perspective to journalism.

In October 2025, she will begin the part-time NCTJ-accredited Diploma in Multimedia Journalism in London. A child survivor of war, her passion for storytelling is rooted in justice, truth, and amplifying voices often disregarded or silenced.

She is thrilled to receive the Journalism Diversity Fund, which enables her to pursue her dream of becoming the journalist she longed to see. Ikraan aims to challenge harmful narratives, spotlight marginalised communities, and contribute to a more inclusive, empathetic, and representative media landscape.

Kisakye is an aspiring broadcast journalist, with a keen interest in geopolitics.

Having written for his university’s student newspaper, covering topics pertaining to both domestic and foreign affairs, Kisakye hopes to build on this experience whilst studying the NCTJ-accredited fast-track multimedia journalism diploma with the News Associates in London.

Whilst growing up Black British, Kisakye did not see much representation within the world of journalism and is therefore deeply passionate about underrepresented voices within the media. He will bring diversity to newsrooms by ensuring that Black British stories, as well as stories from the African continent, are championed.

Louie Kennedy is a 21-year-old Sports Journalism graduate from University Academy 92. Hoping  to advance his journalism career, he will begin the NCTJ-accredited 18-month Multimedia Journalism Diploma with News Associates this November.

In addition to his degree, Louie has gained valuable experience with Trafford FC, Avro FC, and Manc Sport. As a bilingual journalist fluent in English and Spanish, he is able to connect with wider audiences.

Coming from a mixed-race, low-income background, Louie is committed to increasing representation in sports journalism and highlighting under-represented communities in the industry.

https://muckrack.com/louie-kennedy

Lysia will begin her MA in Journalism at the University of Sheffield in September, after completing an English degree at the University of Liverpool.

She has written for the Derby College newspaper and Liverpool Lighthouse, a community arts centre where she blogged about gospel music events and interviewed performers. Her work there focused on challenging prejudice and promoting cultural inclusion.

Originally from Derby, where many communities feel the impact of underfunding, Lysia is committed to reporting stories that often go unheard. She hopes to use journalism to challenge stereotypes and bring more honesty and nuance to public conversation.

Magdalena is a recent recipient of the Journalism Diversity Fund and is an aspirational political journalist and foreign correspondent. As a recent recipient of the Journalism Diversity Fund, she will study her NCTJ-accredited fast-track diploma in Multimedia Journalism at News Associates in London.

She brings diversity to the newsroom through her experiences as an Eastern European member of the LGBTQ+ community.

She has previously held the editorial role of the International section of her university student newspaper, as well as having won awards for Best Opinion Piece and Best Shortform Article at her university’s leading political journal.

Nadine Reynolds is a documentary journalist completing her NCTJ Diploma in Multimedia Journalism with support from the Journalism Diversity Fund. She holds a first-class degree in Sociology with Media and Communications and has three years’ experience in unscripted TV development.

Nadine is passionate about telling stories that advocate for social change and justice, driven by questions like: Who does our society serve? How can we reshape it for a fairer future?

She aims to bring diversity to the newsroom by amplifying voices from underrepresented communities and making space for all to share their experiences, wisdom, and hopes.

Paul Kafuwa is a Journalism graduate from the University of Northampton with a passion for storytelling and a love for presenting. Throughout his studies, he developed strong skills in writing, interviewing, and multimedia production.

Paul is determined to break into the media industry as a journalist and presenter, driven by his love for politics, sports, and social issues. He believes in the power of journalism to inform, engage, and inspire change.

With a commitment to giving accurate representation to the stories that matter in today’s world, Paul is eager to bring compelling and authentic stories to a broad and diverse audience.

Salem Abu-Zayed is a budding journalist set to begin NCTJ training with the News Associates Fast Track Diploma in London this September.

After graduating from Sussex University, he launched his career in Cairo as a Copy Editor at Q News, where he led efforts to standardise language across the channel.

Beginning his career in a foreign culture inspired Salem to challenge the notion of a universal human perspective.

Salem’s fascination with Egyptian culture and its untold stories sparked his desire to move beyond copy editing and pursue investigative journalism, with the intent of bringing greater nuance to underreported stories.

Here is the Bio -Christina is a Glasgow based journalism student who will be undertaking the NTCJ 22 -week course at Glasgow Clyde Campus. She is excited to begin the course and develop a wide range of practical and professional skills, with a particular enthusiasm for feature writing.

Christina has a passion for uncovering new and unusual stories, and is committed to giving a platform to people and communities who are often underrepresented in the media. Coming from a working-class background herself, she values diverse perspectives and seeks to bring authentic, relatable voices into her work.

Samia Uddin is set to begin the part-time NCTJ Diploma in Multimedia Journalism at News Associates, having recently completed a BA in Politics, Philosophy and History at Birkbeck University.

Passionate about political accountability, foreign affairs, and investigative journalism, she focuses on stories that centre marginalised voices. Her work investigates how national and foreign policies shape the lives of underserved communities.

As a visibly Muslim female, Samia brings an essential and underrepresented perspective to the newsroom – one that challenges dominant framings, understands the impact of misrepresentation, and is driven to amplify voices too often excluded from mainstream media narratives.

https://muckrack.com/ruwaayah

Tiah will begin the NCTJ fast-track diploma in multimedia journalism at News Associates London this September. Raised by a single mother in one of Birmingham’s most deprived suburbs, she brings a sharp, global perspective informed by her mixed-race, working-class roots and international experience.

As a first-generation scholarship student, she earned her BA in Political Science and French and led The Wesleyan Argus as Managing Editor.

At The Hill in Washington, D.C., Tiah worked as an Audience Engagement Producer, reporting on issues including the 2024 election and LGBTQ+ policy.

Passionate about social affairs, Tiah aspires toward a career in investigative journalism.

Angelina will be starting her NCTJ course at Glasgow Caledonian University doing MA Multimedia Journalism.

She gained valuable journalism experience during her undergraduate studies as the Head of Editing for student magazine, The Gay Saint, and hosting her own radio show. Throughout her masters, Angelina wishes to build on her passions of sports journalism, and feminist media.

Coming from a British-Asian, state school, single parent background, Angelina hopes to bring diversity into the newsroom by offering a lens of intersectionality and a determination to amplify diverse voices.

Catherine is an aspiring journalist who will begin her part-time NCTJ training at News Associates London in October.

During her time at the University of Birmingham Catherine gained experience in journalism as a T.V and film editor for her student newspaper. She hopes to become a documentary journalist, ultimately combining her love for current affairs, film and journalism.

Her Sierra Leonean background allowed for the creation of her passion for politics and current affairs. Additionally, it enabled her to acknowledge the importance of listening to the marginalised, and that is how she plans on bringing diversity into the newsroom.

Claudia Smith is a project management and finance professional with extensive experience in consulting, financial services and transformation. A Business Studies graduate from the University of Hertfordshire, she has built strong expertise in business partnering at PwC and Close Brothers, and has successfully delivered multi-million-pound projects at Sky and within the veterinary sector.

Claudia is thrilled to be starting the NCTJ Diploma with PA Media Academy as she pursues her ambition of becoming a journalist and broadcaster, with a special focus on personal finance. She is passionate about bringing greater diversity to newsrooms through inclusive, authentic storytelling and amplifying under-represented voices.

https://www.instagram.com/claudiaamasmith?igsh=MTN5OWhmdjc5bWQxNg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Dylan is thrilled to be starting the NCTJ Diploma in Multimedia Sports Journalism at News Associates in London.

In 2025, he graduated from Durham University with a degree in Philosophy and Politics. Alongside his studies, he served as Deputy Sport Editor of the student newspaper. Before graduating, he won the FWA Student Football Writer of the Year Hugh McIlvanney Award and was nominated for the SPA Rising Star Award.

Coming from a working-class background, he is committed to bringing greater diversity to the newsroom by telling stories from underrepresented communities and amplifying voices that too often go unheard.

James Xu is eager to start his NCTJ training at PA Media on their fast-track multimedia journalism course in London for 19 weeks.

His motivation to become a journalist stems from his grandmother, who fled from religious persecution in China and spent the rest of her days campaigning for freedom of belief. James is bilingual and has a strong interest in political news, especially regarding the dangers of authoritarianism.

James strives to shine a light on the East Asian experience in the UK, and advocates to represent the full breadth of British diversity in the newsroom.

Kathryn can’t wait to start her fast-track NCTJ course at News Associates in London. She is incredibly grateful to be a recipient of the JDF, and as a natural chatterbox she is looking forward to maximising the mentorship scheme it offers.

Kathryn graduated in 2023 with a First Class degree in Politics and Social Policy from the University of Bristol. Since then, she has been a freelance journalist in her hometown of Sheffield and even ended up as a reporter on the ground at COP29. Most recently, she has completed a summer internship as an Environmental Markets Reporter at Dow Jones.

Kathryn’s upbringing has shaped her into an empathetic and curious individual who hopes to bring marginalised voices into the media in a way which fosters vulnerability, understanding and human connection.

Katy is an eager journalist studying fast-track NCTJ Diploma in Multimedia Journalism at Glasgow Clyde College. Gaining her undergrad at Stirling University in Business and Politics, furthering her excitement to pursue journalism.

Living with Autism and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder brings a different perspective into her work, additionally identifying as Queer. Proving that those who process differently can still make a meaningful impact in the media.

Growing up in a working class council estate established a strong motivation for community lead media, which was only furthered in Glasgow. Having published many blog posts, and featured in the Greater Govanhill Investigative Journalism summer issue 2025. Katy hopes to learn and
perfect her style in journalism and is excited to where it takes her.

Kyra is a proactive journalist passionate about amplifying the voices of misrepresented communities through digital storytelling.

Following her undergraduate degree in International Development with Politics at the University of East Anglia, Kyra focused on developing her storytelling and writing skills through her blog Autisticly Me and her communications role at the University of Salford. She’s determined to bring diversity into the newsroom by continuing to amplify voices of the neurodivergent community and report stories that accurately represent misrepresented communities.

Kyra is excited to start studying MA Journalism at the University of Salford in September 2025.

As a people-centric, somewhat outspoken, passionate storyteller from a working class background, Lauren cannot wait to begin learning the skills required to become an ardent journalist and earn the all-important NCTJ!

She will begin this quest at the University of Salford in September on their Journalism MA.

Lauren’s goal is always to inspire connection through her work, against a media landscape that at times can unfortunately encourage the opposite! She embarks upon becoming a part of the ongoing, positive change she identifies in journalism, and is beyond grateful to the JDF for giving her the magnificent opportunity to do so.

Naghma Arif received a First Class degree in English Literature with Creative Writing and will begin the part-time NCTJ-accredited journalism training at News Associates in October 2025.

With a passion for storytelling that reflects real, lived experiences, she is committed to making newsrooms more representative and inclusive. Drawing on her experiences as a South Asian Muslim woman, who is also a first-generation graduate, she aims to bring fresh perspectives to the newsroom and champion stories that are often overlooked.

Her goal is to report with accuracy, empathy, and integrity – amplifying perspectives that are often underrepresented in the media.

Nichaela George will begin the fast-track NCTJ Diploma in Journalism at PA Media Academy in September. She looks forward to strengthening her industry knowledge and bringing a diverse perspective to the newsroom.

During her Multimedia Journalism degree, she served as Social Secretary, Sponsorship and PR Officer for her university’s cheerleading and dance team, sparking her social media and marketing career. Returning to journalism as the Social Video Producer at HELLO! Magazine, Nichaela created high-performing social-first content covering entertainment and royal news.

She has reported on major events including Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee, state funeral and King Charles III’s coronation.

https://www.tiktok.com/@nichaelaxx?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

Rufus is an aspiring journalist from Liverpool who will be studying for his NCTJ diploma at PA Media Academy in London.

He previously earned a BA (Hons) in Journalism: Multimedia from the University of Salford and completed a 10-week reporting internship at the Liverpool Echo. He is passionate about developing his skills to produce journalism that is impactful, ethical, and community-focused.

With interests varying from political to sports journalism, he is driven by a commitment to telling human-centred stories with authenticity. Being of mixed-race ethnicity and from a working-class city, he is especially conscious of the consequences of media misrepresentation and aims to help foster a better understanding of underrepresented communities through his reporting

Vorny (Siobhan) Redmond is 35 years old, from Huyton, Liverpool and will be studying remotely for her NCTJ’s with News Associates on their Level 5 Diploma in Multimedia Journalism starting November 2025.

With a keen interest in writing and creating, Vorny is passionate about investigations, social justice, and creating positive representation of our communities as they truly are.

Vorny will bring a wealth of diversity in to a Newsroom, as a ‘statistical anomaly’ she has a unique perspective on life, and an understanding & empathy that does not come from a ‘silver spoon” life.

She was diagnosed with Epilepsy in 2008, which meant she was unable to attend university to study Journalism as planned. 17 years later, Vorny is still pursuing her dreams and hopes to prove to others who doubt themselves, that they too can follow their dreams!

She trained in Childcare and Healthcare where communication is all you have.
Vorny founded the Shoebox Full of Love Appeal Merseyside in 2014, exceeding 1.5M worth of donations, hundreds of businesses & volunteers support and hundreds of thousands of gifts given to the communities most vulnerable people and animals at Christmas time.

As both a survivor and advocate for other survivors of Sexual Violence, Vorny speaks openly and from the heart about real issues that affect real people in our communities and really isn’t afraid to do so.

Taila-Nichole is a journalist from Hackney whose love for storytelling began with songwriting – helping others feel seen and heard. Now navigating her path at the Daily Express, she sought to deepen her foundation and prove her place in the industry.

She’ll be starting the NCTJ-accredited part-time Multimedia Journalism course at News Associates London in October 2025, backed by the JDF. Being awarded the bursary made her feel seen in return.

She’s committed to honouring her roots, representing her borough, and proving you can build a future bigger than you imagined – through the power of real, meaningful stories.

Michael Hope is 24 from Lancaster studying at the University of Sunderland towards an MA in Sports Journalism.

Michael has been in the football industry for over 4 years with his YouTube channel where he follows his local team Morecambe FC and cover Non League football across the country.

He is proud to be a part of the JDF a member of the Gypsy/Traveller community. It will be a pleasure to represent his community throughout his studies to become a sports journalist.

Tanya is excited to be starting the NCTJ fast-track Multimedia Journalism Diploma at News Associates in London.

In 2024, Tanya graduated from the University of Bristol with a degree in English (BA). During her time there, she was heavily involved in student media and her passion to pursue a career in journalism developed. After graduating, she launched her own intersectional arts and culture magazine, SISTA, which greatly expanded her journalistic skillset. She is thrilled to have received the funding and mentorship from NCTJ to help her pursue a career in journalism.

Tanya intends to bring inclusive storytelling to the newsroom and amplify diverse voices.

Alexander Foresythe is a sports journalist with ambitions to cover the world’s biggest events, including the Olympics and the World Cup. He is equally passionate about reporting beyond sport, using journalism to highlight issues that matter and voices that deserve to be heard.

He will begin his NCTJ-accredited remote part-time course with News Associates in November 2025. Born in Britain to Nigerian heritage and raised in a working-class background, Alexander brings diversity, authenticity, and a commitment to representing underrepresented communities while telling stories that connect with people from all walks of life.

Amy Moretsele will be completing her NCTJ training with PA Media Academy on their part-time diploma course from September. After working as a copywriter in both an agency and freelance capacity, she’s pursuing a career in journalism because she’s passionate about highlighting stories from underrepresented communities.

Having grown up mixed race with a single mother in Southeast England, Amy feels particularly strongly about intersectional feminist issues. She has multiple health conditions – endometriosis and Ulcerative Colitis, and supported herself through her undergraduate studies through stripping. In her journalistic work, she plans to bring diversity via the perspective of these marginalised communities.

Aneela is excited to begin the NCTJ Fast-Track Multimedia Diploma in Journalism at News Associates.

Aneela was a writer for the student newspaper throughout all four years of studying for her undergrad at KCL. Whilst, also helping to edit other student publication such as The Spectrum and The Dialogue.

Aneela is passionate about journalism informed by diverse perspectives and narratives. She is excited to draw on her life experiences as a working-class and ethnic minority woman to create a more diverse and representative newsroom.

Charlotte is excited to be starting the NCTJ-accredited MA in News Journalism at Cardiff University.

She graduated with a degree in Comparative Literatures and Cultures from the University of Bristol in 2025, where her dissertation on postcolonial power structures deepened her passion for telling stories through a decolonial lens.

She gained experience writing for student publications and has also undertaken newsroom experience at WalesOnline, conducting interviews for current affairs pieces and shadowing political and court reporters. Charlotte hopes to pursue a career in international and foreign correspondence, using her storytelling to amplify underrepresented voices and bring global issues to diverse audiences.

Soon to undertake a quest for an NCTJ Diploma in multimedia journalism at News Associates, Elliot is an aspiring investigative and community journalist from North-west London.

Growing up with a stutter, Elliot discovered first-hand the demeaning nature of voicelessness, and naturally formed a passion for the writing expression. As the former editor of Bath Time Magazine, he discovered great purpose using this passion to stand up for marginalised students.

Elliot proudly represents the working class and Jewish Communities in which he is a member, and hopes to tell the stories of struggle in those absent from the daily news cycle

Elohor Efakpokire is excited to start her NCTJ Diploma at PA Media Academy in London.

In 2024, she graduated with a 2.1 in Politics and Philosophy from the University of Glasgow, contributing to the student papers during her time at the university. Whilst working as a TA, she ran a journalism club for Sixth Formers and has interned at the Financial Times.

Elohor enjoys reading, going on runs and yoga. She brings diversity to a newsroom through her work experience outside journalism and her experience growing up in a low income household. Elohor hopes to use her experiences to tell stories often overlooked in mainstream media and would like to develop her journalistic skills.

Hunter Powers will start the NCTJ Multimedia course at News Associates in March 2026, formalising his lived experience with professional training to sharpen his journalism skills.

Having faced long waits for gender-affirming healthcare and periods of homelessness, he is committed to reporting on underrepresented voices and bringing fresh, authentic perspectives to UK newsrooms.

Early in his career, he was the subject of a trans healthcare case study, which won the first-ever digital award at the Royal Television Society Awards. He later joined the Sky News early careers programme, producing for the Kay Burley breakfast show and writing online.

Jess is an aspiring sports journalist about to commence an MA in Sports Journalism at St Mary’s Twickenham after earning a BSc in Sport Science, Coaching and Physical Education from Loughborough University. This will enable her to combine her passion for sports (particularly rugby union) with her passion for journalism.

Coming from a working-class background as a disabled lesbian woman, she is aware of the gaps in representations and inequity of experiences in sport and media for those with marginalised identities. During her course, she hopes to highlight this gap and shed light on the untold stories in sport.

Joseph Scannell is a young, aspiring journalist from the heart of the Falls Road in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

After receiving an HND with Distinction in Factual Television and Broadcast at the Belfast Metropolitan College, graduating from his BA Journalism course at Ulster University with first-class honours, and receiving the Dr Brum Henderson Award, he looks forward to completing his MA Journalism course at Ulster University come September 2025.

Joseph, coming from a Roman-Catholic background, brings diversity by representing this oft-overlooked demographic within the broader newsroom, showing that the old wounds of society are no barrier to achieving your dreams.

Maryam Ali is studying a Masters in Broadcast Journalism and an NCTJ Diploma at the University of Sheffield. Originally from London, she is British-Somali and holds an undergraduate degree in Anthropology with a year in Data Analytics from the University of Kent.

She has worked across sectors, most recently abroad as an English teacher in South Korea. Maryam’s ultimate aim is to become a successful journalist, researcher, and documentary filmmaker.

She is pursuing journalism to leave her comfort zone, learn practical reporting skills, and develop a niche across media platforms to tell stories that connect and inspire.

https://sites.google.com/view/maryamaliportfolio/homepage

https://maryamaliportfolio.substack.com/

Nasra Abdi is a journalism graduate who is inspired and excited to pursue stories highlighting underrepresented communities and grassroots issues.

She recently completed an internship at The Guardian, gaining hands-on newsroom experience and contributing articles across Formula One, football, and rugby union.

Passionate about telling human stories that challenge systemic barriers, Nasra will begin the fast-track NCTJ diploma with PA Media Academy, aiming to bring greater diversity, insight, and multimedia storytelling to the journalism industry.

Lauren Cairnie, 21, completed her undergraduate’s degree in Social Science at Glasgow Caledonian University. She will be returning to the same university to begin her Masters in Multimedia Journalism.

In 2025, she conducted work experience for both The National and The Times and the Sunday Times where she further developed her interviewing, research and writing skills. She enjoys writing about travel, culture, entertainment, social issues and politics.

Growing up as a young woman in a deprived community in North Ayrshire, Scotland, Lauren offers diversity to the newsrooms through her perspectives on topics relating to women’s issues, local community and matters relating to Gen Z.

Samra is an aspiring journalist pursuing her studies on the NCTJ-accredited fast-track multimedia journalism course with News Associates.

She is committed to promoting understanding and encouraging informed opinions on issues particularly affecting the British South Asian and British Muslim communities.

Passionate about developing her skills to ensure fair and unbiased coverage, Samra aims to contribute to a more compassionate and informed society. Her studies in multimedia journalism will provide her with a diverse range of skills to continue effectively communicating these important messages.

David Williams is an aspiring journalist interested in community journalism, particularly within a political context as well as arts and culture.

Isabel begins their NCTJ in Multimedia Journalism at News Associates in London this October.

They graduated a decade ago with a 2:1 in Philosophy & Politics from the University of Bristol, and more recently completed a Masters (with distinction) in Human Geography from the same institution.

Isabel has written for the Bristol Cable and interned at the Bureau of Investigative Journalism and Privacy International.

With extensive experience working alongside marginalized communities, they focus particularly on housing and migration issues. Raised in Yorkshire by a single mother on benefits, Isabel brings personal insight into social class, neurodiversity, and mental health challenges.

Esther is a recipient of the NCTJ Journalism Diversity Fund, completing her training with News Associates in Twickenham.

She graduated magna cum laude from Howard University in 2024 with a degree in English Literature, concentrated by Creative Writing, along with a minor in African Studies. She also wrote for The Hilltop, the university’s nationally recognised newspaper, and completed a joint internship at Vox Media/UM Worldwide.

Mentored by Pulitzer Prize winner Keith Alexander, and NABJ Journalist of the Year JD Jean Jacques, she is passionate about reporting on marginalised communities and using journalism to bring justice.

Whilst studying, both at sixth form and during her bachelor’s degree, Zahra discovered a passion for storytelling and journalism.

Over the past two years working as a production assistant for Sky News, Zahra have witnessed first hand the evolving landscape of news circulation—how editorial decisions can shape which stories are amplified and which are side-lined. The escalating crisis in Gaza has only underscored the urgency of pursuing her NCTJ diploma, fuelling her commitment to ensuring that marginalised voices are not just heard but centred within the newsroom.

Zahra’s ambition as a journalist, especially coming from a care experienced background, is to carve out spaces where British Muslims especially can experience not only representation but also recognition. By shining a light on underrepresented stories and perspectives, she hopes to foster connection, understanding, and empowerment that can champion narratives that build bridges and inspire change within this industry.

Zahra will be studying the NCTJ diploma at PA Media Academy.

Abena Oppon is a recent graduate in English Literature, who is starting her NCTJ training in February 2026 through the News Associates fast-track multimedia course. Passionate about and dedicated to music, arts, and culture journalism, she brings diversity into any newsroom through her rigorous commitment to alternative and intriguing perspectives informed by her Black Britishness and literary education.

She is also firmly entrenched in local news in order to uncover stories that are significant to her community

Amina Fardus is set to begin her NCTJ fast track diploma with PA Media Academy in February.  Having graduated from the University of Manchester in Arabic studies and lived experience in the Middle East, her background as a middle class Bangladeshi Muslim woman from East London brings a unique perspective to the journalistic world.

She aspires to delve into investigative and geo-political journalism in hopes to amplify narratives and voices of marginalised groups and bring to light world issues she has experienced and witnessed. Amina is thrilled to have received the funding and mentorship from NCTJ in order to help guide her passion and establish a career in journalism

Barty Roberts is an aspiring journalist from South West England set to begin a post graduate diploma in Multimedia Journalism with News Associates in Twickenham. 

For his undergraduate degree Barty read Politics and International Relations at SOAS, University of London where he was also Editor-in-Chief of the SOAS Spirit. During his time as Editor, the Spirit launched a magazine supplement and as a result of his campaigning also became one of the first British student newspapers to have a paid, non-sabbatical Editorial team. 

Barty is passionate about increasing access to journalism for state-educated and low-income students who are often prohibited from entering the media sector by the frequent early-career financial barriers.

Cameron-Daisy is excited to begin the NCTJ Fast-Track Diploma in Journalism at Glasgow Clyde College in January.

After graduating from Glasgow Caledonian University in 2023, Cameron has spent the last three years volunteering with her local radio station, Lomond Radio. This has given her valuable experience and a keen interest in the medium.

Coming from a working-class traveller background, Cameron-Daisy aims to utilise the experience and knowledge gained from the NCTJ diploma to tell stories that represent misunderstood and underrepresented minority groups.

Caragh-Rose is excited to start the NCTJ Fast-Track Diploma at Glasgow Clyde College in January!

Alongside her MA in English Literature at the University of Glasgow, she was Deputy Culture Editor of The Glasgow Guardian, a frequent QMUnicate culture writer, and the Social & Political editor for Noctua.

Hailing from a working-class town, she is very gay and very excited to use her passion for writing, culture journalism and the arts to bring new, unique and underrepresented voices to the foreground

Cristina Trujillo graduated from Queen Mary University of London with a degree in English Literature and Hispanic Studies, having written for student newspapers and magazines including The Arrow and CUB.

With a spoken word passion, they had poetry published in magazines like nthposition, before journalism took centre stage. A journalism internship at Guestlist turned into an Online Editor role.

Cristina went on to be a film and TV journalist at Screen Rant and an environmental and democratic campaigner. Cristina is undertaking an NCTJ to ensure that others from low-income, Latin backgrounds have a voice in the media too.

https://www.instagram.com/cristinaxxt/

David Forrest is a 36 year old sports writer and podcaster from Glasgow starting his NCTJ training at Glasgow Clyde College in January on their fast-track course for 19 weeks.

In 2024, David quit his contact centre job to retrain as a Journalist, enrolling as a HNc student at Glasgow Clyde. Since then, David was nominated for the Herald Student Scoop of the Year for his story revealing the reason behind Lord Willie Haughey’s sudden exit from his role as benefactor of Queen’s Park Football Club, which made the back page of the Daily Record in his debut story.

David is the creator, editor, and regular contributor of Draw, Lose or Draw, an award nominated podcast covering the trials and tribulations of Partick Thistle Football Club. For the last six years, David has created over 300 episodes in a wide array of formats, covering the past, present and future of the club, with guests including former MP Mhairi Black.

David also volunteers for Partick Thistle’s media team, writing match reports for every and contributing articles for their matchday programme as well as pieces Newsquest’s Thistle substack, whilst also championing the club’s #HerGameToo initiative and Proud Jags LGBTQIA+ organisation.

David is keen to get going with the qualification and gain further journalism experience under the mentoring and practical opportunities offered by NCTJ.

Demi is a passionate and committed investigative journalist with a BA in Journalism, Media and Sociology and an MA in Digital Documentaries from Cardiff University.
The JDF have given Demi a second chance to achieve the highly distinguished NCTJ qualification after an unfortunate set of circumstances saw her complete a non-accredited postgraduate course.

Demi has worked with both the South Wales Argus and BBC Wales, producing high-quality news in a variety of formats.

As a descendant of the Windrush with a hidden disability, Demi is committed to highlighting underserved voices and producing news which is diverse and serves all communities

Hodan Sultan is a Somali, Black, Muslim woman whose hopes for the future of journalism come from within her community.

Having written for various national newspapers and for SOAS Spirit, her university newspaper, Hodan is particularly interested in under-represented stories and hopes to become an inspiration for young Black Muslim girls just like her.

With the help of the Journalism Diversity Fund, she will be starting her fast-track NCTJ-accredited diploma in Multimedia Journalism at News Associates beginning in February 2026.

Hodan is thrilled to be beginning this journey, learning, and gaining essential journalistic skills and hoping for more challenging conversations.

https://hodansultan.substack.com/

Katie is a recent Politics, Philosophy, and Economics (with Intercalated Year) graduate from the University of Warwick. In February 2026, with the support of the Journalism Diversity Fund, she will embark upon her NCTJ in Multimedia Journalism with the News Associates on their fast-track programme in London.

Growing up working-class in the Black Country, one of the most deprived areas in England, Katie is committed to widening representation in newsrooms, using her experiences to deliver fresh angles and tell powerful stories. With wide-ranging interests traversing politics, culture, and more, she has bylines in The Times and Dazed. She has previously served as Editor-in-Chief, Chief Subeditor, and Features Editor at The Boar

Molly is a recent recipient of the Journalism Diversity Fund, set to begin her fast-track training at News Associates in Twickenham this February. Having studied History at the University of Bristol, where she gained a comprehensive understanding of contexts that shape current affairs, she is excited to take the next step into journalism.

Living with ADHD and dyslexia, Molly challenged traditional academic approaches and gravitated towards visual sources, developing a critical awareness of how imagery shapes narratives. Since graduating, she has applied these insights to her work using photojournalism and interviews to seek out stories that challenge the conventional.

Recognising that visuals have become one of the strongest currencies in a modern newsroom, Molly is keen to be at the forefront of this. She is developing her skills in multimedia journalism with the aspiration of becoming an investigative or documentary journalist. Coming from a working- class background, she is committed to reporting on overlooked voices and empowering others with her work.

Oliver Povey will be studying the NCTJ fast-track diploma with PA as he seeks to professionalise his journalism skills.
After graduating with a history degree from UEA, he lived in Madrid from 2020 until 2025. During his time in Spain, he worked for sport paper Diario AS, focusing on football and international news. He has since written freelance for English and Spanish-language publications after moving back to the UK.

Oliver is aiming for a career in sports journalism, blending stories with history and politics. He aims to increase representation for neurodivergent journalists and bring their viewpoints to the forefront.

https://www.olabolob.co.uk/

https://substack.com/@olabolob

Puntid will begin the part-time NCTJ Diploma in Multimedia Journalism at News Associates in London in March 2026.

Originally from Hong Kong, Puntid completed her high school education in Manchester and has spent the past five years in Bangkok. She graduated with a 2:1 Bachelor of Arts degree in Comparative Literature from The University of Hong Kong.She worked for two years as a writer on the English news team at The Thaiger.

Fluent in Chinese and English, with conversational Thai, Puntid believes her multicultural background and experience will help connect diverse communities, which is essential to inclusive journalism.

https://thethaiger.com/author/puntid

Sadia Shahid will be completing the NCTJ Full-time Diploma in News Journalism at PA Media in early 2026.

Having decided to pursue a career in journalism, she has dedicated her time as a freelance journalist outside of a degree. Having previous experience as a Media Director in Zanzibar to a Social Media Executive at FT Live; Sadia has continued to grow in her career as an aspiring journalist.

Being a British Muslim who grew up in South London with mixed heritage and of working class, Sadia wishes to change the current Media landscape, to create change and share the voices of those around the world.