tâpwêwin media launches first-of-its-kind Indigenous photojournalism fellowship The inaugural ReFocus program will take place on Mi’kma’ki territory this May
February 2, 2026, Kjipuktuk (colonially known as Halifax)— 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. 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 Karen Pinchon, an author, about Indigenous Photojournalists in the Mi’kma’ki territory. This program proactively addresses the shortage of Indigenous-led photojournalism education opportunities and the financial barriers often faced by emerging Indigenous talent.
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 will be provided with travel, on-campus accommodation, 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
The IndigiNews ReFocus Photojournalism Fellowship Instructors
The IndigiNews ReFocus Photojournalism Fellowship: Mi’kma’ki is designed as an intensive, hands-on learning environment with instruction from award-winning, experienced Indigenous photographers and journalists working in media and education. The faculty of Fellowship instructors this year includes: Visual Storyteller and National Geographic Explorer Pat Kane; Indiana University Media School Assistant Professor and Video/Photojournalist Ryan Comfort; Reporter for The Globe and Mail specializing in Indigenous Affairs Willow Fiddler; APTN Videojournalist Trina Roache and Freelance Photojournalist Gavin John who has featured in The Globe and Mail, The New York Times and The Narwhal.
Applications will be accepted until February 28, 2026. Visit the website for more information on submission criteria and to apply.
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.
