Terms of Reference (TOR) For Media Fellowship Program for Young Journalists

Terms of Reference (TOR)

For

Media Fellowship Program for Young Journalists

ActionAid Media Fellowship 2024

1. Introduction

ActionAid International Nepal (AAIN) is excited to announce the Media Fellowship Program for Young Journalists - ActionAid Media Fellowship 2024. This fellowship aims to support and empower young journalists passionate about social justice, with a specific focus on our Climate Justice and Decent Work campaigns. The program seeks to foster collaboration between AAIN and media professionals to effectively communicate critical issues to a broad audience.

2. Objectives

• Enhance Understanding and Reporting: Facilitate a deeper understanding of Climate Justice and Decent Work campaigns among young journalists.
• Promote Informed Discourse: Encourage journalists to raise awareness and foster informed public discourse on Climate Justice and Decent Work.
• Create Impactful Content: Develop and publish in-depth news feature articles, interviews, and research-based articles on these themes through widely accessible online or paper platforms in English or Nepali language.

3. Duration

The Media Fellowship program will last five months and include both virtual and on-site components, such as online training, expert interviews, and field trips. The program will accommodate the different backgrounds and experiences of the participating journalists/media houses.

4. Scope of Work

• Orientation: Selected journalists will participate in an orientation program to familiarize themselves with AAIN's mission, ongoing projects, and key issues related to Climate Justice and Decent Work campaigns.  
• Field Visits: Fellows will conduct on-site visits to AAIN project locations, gaining firsthand experience and insights.
• Content Creation: Fellows will work on collaborative projects to produce in-depth, multimedia content (articles, news features, short reels, photos) focusing on Climate Justice and Decent Work.  
• Publication: Fellows will publish their work through various media channels, particularly online or paper platforms with wide reach, in English or Nepali.  
• Publication Frequency: Fellows are expected to publish at least one in-depth article and one multimedia piece per month throughout the fellowship duration.

5. Number of fellowships:

Climate Justice Campaign: 1 Female and 1 Male fellowships (Total 2 fellows)  

Decent Work Campaign: 1 Female and 1 Male fellowships (Total 2 Fellows)

6. Application Process

AAIN encourages both media houses and individual journalists to apply, with a particular emphasis on young journalists from disadvantaged backgrounds and remote locations.

Submission Requirements:

• Submit a motivation letter highlighting relevant experience and quoting the requisite amount excluding travel, accommodation, study trips.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Two referees

Applications should be submitted by ………………………………………………. To………………………  with the subject line "Application for Media Fellowship Program- Climate Justice Campaign" or "Application for Media Fellowship Program- Decent Work Campaign".

7. Selection Process

Applications will be reviewed by a committee comprising AAIN representatives. Selected candidates will receive a lump-sum stipend to cover the in-depth work, while as per the context AAIN shall cover the costs for travel, food, and accommodation while developing their content in accordance with AAIN’s standard.

8. Deliverables

• Multimedia Content: Fellows will create and publish in-depth multimedia content (articles, news features, reels, photos) on Climate Justice and Decent Work.  
• Soft and Hard Copies: Fellows must provide both soft and hard copies of all published articles.  
• Summary Report: A brief summary report of the assignment must be submitted at the end of the fellowship.
• High-Quality Multimedia Items: Submission of high-quality multimedia items such as video documentaries, podcasts, and photographs (Applicable if any)
• Engagement: Regular interaction and collaboration with AAIN's focal person for guidance and feedback.

9. Evaluation

AAIN team will evaluate the fellows' work based on criteria such as accuracy, depth, and the ability to communicate complex issues to diverse audiences.

10. Reporting

Fellows will work closely with the Communications Manager, Campaign officer and dedicated theme Managers at AAIN to ensure alignment with the organization's objectives and campaigns.

11. Proposal Submission Guideline

Interested individuals who meet the above requirements should submit their CV, cover letter along with financial proposal-quoting the requisite amount excluding travel, accommodation, study trips. Submissions should be sent to jobs.nepal@actionaid.org by 5:00 pm on 31st August 2024.

• The proposal should demonstrate sound knowledge, technical skills and capability as required by the nature of the work of the assignment and understanding of the requisite tasks set forth in the terms of reference.
• Eligible individual should submit their individual profile and financial proposal.
• At least two positive references/recommendations from past employers must be submitted.
• Enclose a copy of company registration with latest renewal, VAT certificate with latest renewal, and citizenship certificate of the proposed consultant (in case of firm)
• Enclose a copy of citizenship certificate, bar licence and PAN/VAT certificate (in case of individual)

About ActionAid International Nepal

ActionAid International Nepal (AAIN) is a global justice federation working to achieve social justice, gender equality, and poverty eradication. AAIN focuses on addressing the root causes of poverty and injustice by promoting sustainable development, human rights, and democratic governance. Through partnership and collaboration, AAIN aims to empower marginalized communities and advocate for systemic change.

Equal Opportunity

AAIN is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity and inclusiveness. Women journalists and journalists from disadvantaged backgrounds and remote locations are particularly encouraged to apply.

Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be notified for the further selection process. AAIN reserves the right to reject any application without providing reasons.