IndigiNews: ReFocus
Photojournalism Fellowship: Mi’kma’ki
tâpwêwin media is proud to announce the launch of the inaugural IndigiNews ReFocus Photojournalism Fellowship: Mi’kma’ki, a new annual program for Indigenous photojournalists in Canada to learn from industry-leading Indigenous professionals in an all-expenses paid, on-campus program.
Running from May 17 to 23, 2026, the Fellowship is a week-long intensive program offered at no cost to the participants, this year taking place in the traditional territory of the Mi’kma’ki at the University of King’s College in Kjipuktuk, colonially known as Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Carefully selected by a panel of judges, five to seven candidates will be awarded the Fellowship this year and provided with travel, accommodation on campus, hands-on instruction, and professional photography equipment.
The program is open to a range of experience levels, and candidates from across Canada are encouraged to apply, with priority given to Indigenous students in Atlantic Canada.
“Indigenous-led and taught programs are vital to amplifying our voices in the media landscape and advancing Indigenous journalism in Canada. It is with immense excitement that we’re launching the IndigiNews ReFocus Photojournalism Fellowship: Mi’kma’ki, bridging the gap in funded opportunities in education and providing community-led mentorship for the next generation of Indigenous photojournalists.”
— tâpwêwin media CEO and IndigiNews Publisher Eden Fineday
About IndigiNews and tâpwêwin media
IndigiNews is an independent, Indigenous-run newsroom committed to decolonizing journalism and strengthening Indigenous media ecosystems, owned by tâpwêwin media, a national Indigenous-led nonprofit. Our mission is to amplify Indigenous voices and perspectives through culturally rooted and trauma-informed storytelling and media production. tâpwêwin is a Cree term that means “the act of telling the truth” and speaks to the obligation to be a reliable witness and have integrity in one’s storytelling. We believe that tâpwêwin media has the potential to make a significant contribution to the landscape of Indigenous journalism in “Canada” and beyond colonial borders.
IndigiNews ReFocus Photojournalism Fellowship: Mi’kma’ki is the first of its kind in the country, the Fellowship was envisioned by tâpwêwin media CEO and IndigiNews Publisher Eden Fineday in response to inquiries from Michelle Cyca, editor of the Narwhal and author, Karen Pinchon for Indigenous Photojournalists in the Mi’kma’ki territory. This is a program that proactively addresses the shortage of Indigenous-led education opportunities in photojournalism — as well as the financial barriers often faced by emerging Indigenous talent.
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This fellowship is intended for emerging Indigenous photojournalists seeking to deepen their skills and creative voice. It is open to Indigenous applicants from across so-called Canada, with priority given to applicants from the Mi’kmaw and other Wabanaki Nations and to Indigenous applicants based in other territories. Future iterations of the fellowship will be held in other Indigenous territories in the years ahead.
Ideal Candidates
Emerging Indigenous photojournalists seeking to deepen their skills and creative voice, with priority given to applicants based in and around Mi'kma'ki territory.
Early-career Indigenous photographers who are self-taught, community-based, or working outside of traditional academic or commercial pathways.
Applicants should be curious, committed to learning, and motivated to explore photography as a tool for journalistic storytelling and community connection.
A basic working knowledge of a camera (either a physical camera or a phone) is required.
Prior experience as a journalist or photojournalist is not required—only a genuine interest, curiosity, and motivation to explore that path.
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Yes. Participation in this program is open to Indigenous individuals only. The program is designed to support Indigenous individuals and is grounded in Indigenous perspectives, experiences, and community priorities.
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There’s no cost to participate, as accommodation, travel, equipment, and instruction are all fully covered! In addition to that, fellows will receive a stipend for their participation.
Meet The Faculty
