Four Canadian cities will offer J-School Noire through African Heritage Month in 2022. Organized by the Canadian Association of Black Journalists (CABJ), J-School Noire is a series of virtual media training workshops and a mentorship program offered to Black Canadian youth to encourage them to consider careers in media and journalism. First piloted in Halifax, N.S., in 2020, the series expanded nationwide in only its second year. The University of King’s College has proudly sponsored J-School Noire since its beginning, and King’s enthusiastic support of the program continues in 2022.
Noah and Joshua, two J-School Noire participants in 2020.
The 2022 line-up will take place in February with workshops in Halifax, N.S., Ottawa, Ont., Toronto, Ont., and in Western Canada. Students attending the free, two-day workshop will have the opportunity to learn from some of Canada’s best-known media personalities, with the CABJ describing the series as “a chance for Black high school and junior high-school students to learn from top media pros and build their storytelling skills.” Students are introduced to key skills that include hands-on shooting, editing, podcasting, writing and interviewing. Once students have completed J-School Noire, the CABJ will pair them with a senior journalist for year-long mentoring.
King’s School of Journalism Assistant Professor Brian Daly oversees national education programs at the Canadian Association of Black Journalists. Daly’s involvement with J-School Noire goes back to its first year. “J-School Noire has been one of the most fulfilling projects that I have been a part of, because of the talented young people involved,” says Daly. “I’m so inspired by the enthusiasm and potential of these students, including one former J-School Noire participant who will be studying journalism at King’s this fall. I expect many more Black Canadian youth to pursue media careers once they see how fun journalism can be.”
Brian Daly
School of Journalism Director Tim Currie is enthusiastic about strengthening the connection between King’s and the program.
“The School is particularly excited Brian is growing J-School Noire in conjunction with his new faculty position at King’s,” says Tim Currie, director of the School of Journalism. “J-School Noire continues to be a crucial initiative for the future of journalism in Canada.”
Interested students are invited to apply.
J-School Noire 2022
Halifax – February 5-6
Ottawa – February 12-13
Greater Toronto Area – February 19-20
Western Canada – February 26-27
