National Council for the Training of Journalists

11/18/2022 | News release | Distributed by Public on 11/18/2022 08:18

New specialist Journalism Diversity Fund bursary in partnership with Football Writers’ Association awarded

A new specialist bursary in partnership with the Football Writers' Association (FWA) has been awarded by the NCTJ's Journalism Diversity Fund (JDF).

Luke Power, who is studying at News Associates in Manchester, is the first recipient of the new bursary aimed at those with a particular interest in sports journalism.

The bursary is designed to help those who are currently under-represented in the journalism industry, or those that have faced hardship in entering the profession.

As well as financial support via the Journalism Diversity Fund to complete his studies, Luke will also join the FWA's mentorship scheme and benefit from a network of over 800 of the country's leading journalists and broadcasters.

Luke said: "I'm honoured that journalists I admire at the Football Writers' Association have shown faith in me by giving me this opportunity.

"I started writing blog posts about football in high school, and my first commentaries were as a child playing FIFA. I think I drove my parents insane with my constant narration!

"It has been quite a journey since then and I am delighted to take my next steps with the FWA.

"I would also like to thank the NCTJ for their amazing efforts in making dreams like these possible through the Journalism Diversity Fund."

Paul McCarthy, chairman of the Football Writers' Association, said: "Even at this early stage of his career, Luke has shown all the qualities needed to make a top-class journalist. He is dedicated, conscientious and with a real flair and feel for the written word.

"We were blown away by his attitude and determination to succeed and hopefully the FWA bursary and the mentorship involved will provide one of the stepping stones in his career."

The bursary will be officially presented, alongside three other specialist JDF bursaries, at the NCTJ's upcoming equality, diversity and inclusion conference on 30 November.

Click here to find out more about the Journalism Diversity Fund.