Theme: Smarter Reporting for Safer Communities
The Camer Today News Project (CTNP) is pleased to invite submissions for its category at the 2026 Victoria International Media Merit Awards (VIIMMA). As part of its commitment to nurturing the next generation of journalists, CTNP will recognize two outstanding student journalists whose work demonstrates excellence in feature writing, public-interest reporting, and impactful storytelling.
This year’s award seeks to spotlight stories that show how thoughtful, evidence-based, and solutions-oriented journalism can contribute to safer and more resilient communities.
Who can apply?
- Student journalists currently enrolled in journalism and communication schools in Cameroon.
- Recent graduates (within the last 06 months) of journalism and communication programmes.
Category: Feature Story
Entries must be original feature stories that explore issues affecting communities and demonstrate how journalism can contribute to safer, more informed, and more resilient societies.
Thematic areas
1. Countering Misinformation and Hate Speech
Stories examining the impact of misinformation, disinformation, hate speech, and efforts to promote responsible digital citizenship.
2. Mental Health and Community Well-being
Stories highlighting mental health challenges, access to support services, community responses, and efforts to reduce stigma.
3. Youth, Technology and Digital Safety
Features exploring cybercrime, online scams, digital literacy, artificial intelligence, and safe use of digital platforms.
Judging Criteria
Entries will be assessed based on:
- Relevance to theme
- Accuracy and quality of reporting
- Storytelling and originality
- Depth of research
- Public interest value
- Impact and relevance to communities
Awards and opportunities
At Camer Today, we believe that young journalists need more than recognition. They also need opportunities to grow. The two winning entrants will therefore receive:
- Recognition at the 2026 Victoria International Media Merit Awards (VIIMMA)
- Publication and promotion opportunities through CTNP platforms
- Access to networking opportunities with journalists, editors, communication professionals, and media leaders
- Mentorship and professional exposure designed to support their transition from the classroom to the newsroom
- A paid professional attachment with the Camer Today News Project, providing hands-on experience in journalism, reporting and storytelling.
- In addition, outstanding participants may be considered for future CTNP training programmes, fellowships, reporting opportunities, and membership in the CTNP Emerging Journalists Network.
Submission Requirements
- Stories must be original, unpublished and produced by the applicant.
- Only one entry per participant will be accepted.
- Word count: 700-1,000 words.
Submit entries here.
Deadline: Rolling