The Kyiv Independent and UNESCO have collaborated to launch J-School 2.0, a training course for English-speaking Ukrainian media professionals to enhance their skills in English-language reporting and media management. The program aims to support the safety of journalists and freedom of expression in Ukraine, especially in the midst of Russia’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Divided into two study sessions, the training will be held offline in Kyiv and online from late October to late November, with the application submission deadline set for early October.
With the growing need to strengthen Ukraine’s voice internationally, the J-School 2.0 program is designed to increase the volume of quality news from Ukraine on the global stage. Building on the success of the first J-School program held last year, this year’s edition has been further specialized to provide focused knowledge in specific areas of English-language journalism. The program will cover a range of topics, including reporting style differences between Ukrainian and international media, funding independent journalism, audience building and community engagement, and ethical reporting practices.
The intensive training course will consist of four learning tracks: general, reporting, editing, and media management. Experienced journalists, editors, and media managers from the Kyiv Independent, along with experts from leading international and national media organizations, will conduct the training. Participants will have the opportunity to develop and pitch their projects to the training committee, with three winning projects potentially being implemented in collaboration with the Kyiv Independent team. Additionally, five participants will be selected for a month-long paid internship with the Kyiv Independent’s editorial or management team.
The program is open to all individuals in Ukraine, with travel and accommodation expenses covered for offline participants upon request. The training is provided free of charge, and applications are welcomed from anyone interested in enhancing their English-language journalism skills. The initiative is supported by UNESCO and the People of Japan as part of their broader efforts to promote the safety of journalists and freedom of expression in Ukraine. The goal is to empower Ukrainian journalists to contribute to global conversations about Ukraine and enhance the quality of reporting on Ukrainian issues.
In addition to the training program, the Kyiv Independent has launched an online store featuring merch showcasing the work of Ukrainian artists. Three different collections are available for purchase, including one featuring the Kyiv Independent brand merchandise and two highlighting the works of local artists. This initiative not only supports the local art community but also provides an avenue for individuals to show their support for independent journalism in Ukraine. By offering a range of products, the online store serves as a platform for promoting Ukrainian creativity and supporting independent media outlets like the Kyiv Independent.
