Volunteer Mental Health Journalist Fellowship

About the role

The BMHM Report Mental Health Journalism Fellowship offers emerging journalists a remote, volunteer opportunity to research, report, and produce stories that explore mental health issues within Black communities. Fellows will work closely with an editorial team and subject‑matter experts to create accurate, compassionate, and culturally competent journalism.

Key responsibilities

• Research and develop original mental‑health stories.
• Pitch story ideas to the BMHM editorial team.
• Conduct interviews with professionals, advocates, policymakers, community leaders, and people with lived experience.
• Cover relevant news, research, policy developments, and cultural events.
• Translate complex research into accessible public‑facing journalism.
• Fact‑check information and responsibly source clinical, scientific, and statistical claims.
• Practice ethical and trauma‑informed interviewing.
• Produce written articles, interviews, news segments, or companion content for The BMHM Report and the BMHM Show.
• Identify resources and solutions alongside reporting on problems.
• Collaborate with editors and subject‑matter experts before publication.

Required profile

• Journalism students and emerging journalists.
• Psychology, behavioral‑health, public‑health, communications, media, or social‑science students.
• Recent graduates, community storytellers, or content creators interested in health journalism.
• Individuals with strong research, writing, interviewing, and storytelling skills.
• A demonstrated commitment to learning and reporting on Black mental health.

What we offer

• Practical mental‑health journalism experience.
• Editorial mentorship and subject‑matter guidance.
• Published bylines and/or media credits.
• Professional journalism portfolio development.
• Experience interviewing mental‑health professionals and community leaders.
• Networking opportunities with researchers, advocates, and public‑health professionals.
• Certificate of completion and a letter of recommendation based on performance.