In an era of growing polarisation, where journalism is often under scrutiny, the need for visionary leaders in the news industry has never been greater. The Journalism Innovation and Leadership (JIL) Programme at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) is now open for 2025 applications, offering a unique opportunity for forward-thinking media professionals to develop the skills needed to transform their industry. With only 20 places available, this selective programme equips participants to tackle modern media challenges through innovation, leadership, and strategic vision.
The JIL Programme, a 30-week, part-time postgraduate course, is designed not just to impart skills but to reimagine journalism for a world in flux. Crafted by an alliance of innovative media leaders, academics, and industry experts, the programme enables participants to explore new approaches to leadership and develop tools to drive meaningful change. While limited fully funded scholarships are available for this year’s intake, these will be awarded to select applicants from underrepresented backgrounds thanks to the generous support of sponsors, including Bright Sites, Chrysalis Transformations, FT Strategies, Media Lab Jordan, and Tickaroo. Each of these organisations sees the programme as an investment not only in individuals but in the future of journalism itself.
Dr. François Nel, Director of the JIL Programme, said:
“2025 marks the fifth year of the JIL Programme. We are building a global network of media leaders – people committed to a new vision for journalism that is inclusive and resilient. This year, we welcome new scholarship sponsors who understand the value of investing in forward-thinking news professionals to create a fairer, smarter media ecosystem.”
Sponsor Insights on Supporting Future Media Leaders
Naomi Owusu, Co-Founder and CEO of Tickaroo, shared:
“As a forward-thinking media-tech company, we are thrilled to support the JIL Programme. We believe in empowering the next generation of media professionals and transforming newsrooms with creative solutions. Our audience-first approach is rooted in our belief that diversity in newsrooms reflects the diversity of our audiences. JIL’s mission aligns with our vision, as we focus on equipping future media leaders with innovative, future-proof solutions.”
Brian Alford, founder and CEO of Bright Sites, added:
“With our new Innovation Incubator, Bright Sites is encouraging media leaders to push boundaries. We’re committed to helping them apply AI-powered solutions that reshape newsrooms. These scholarships reflect our dedication to supporting innovation and to finding those who see technology’s potential and are ready to pioneer its application in journalism.”
Jeremy Clifford, founder of Chrysalis Transformations and the Head of Mentoring for the JILeaders Programme echoed this commitment:
“This programme is essential for nurturing leaders who make a positive contribution to the media industry. As a leadership development coach, I’m delighted Chrysalis can support someone who might not otherwise have this opportunity to benefit from the JIL Programme.”
Lisa MacLeod, Director and Head of Europe, Middle East and Africa at FT Strategies and Leader in Residence at the University of Central Lancashire, commented:
“We are immensely proud to partner with the JIL Programme. This initiative is fundamental to upskilling media managers and fostering collaboration across the global north and south. JIL’s mission of drawing together diverse experiences is vital for a more cooperative, resilient media industry.”
Lara Ayoub, founder of The Media Lab, Jordan and alumna of Class of 2023, emphasised the programme’s transformative impact:
“The JIL Programme provides critical tools and a safe space for media leaders to grow personally and professionally, guided by pioneering industry experts. As a JIL graduate, I’m thrilled that Media Lab Jordan is supporting the programme for the second year through a scholarship. I encourage all media professionals seeking a transformative leap to apply.”
Programme Structure and Alumni Network
Graduates of the JIL Programme join an international cohort of leaders from over 18 countries, working to redefine journalism in real-world contexts. Alumni include Jacqui Merrington, Deputy Commercial Editorial Director at Mail Metro Media, Guthrie Munyuki, Editor-in-Chief of Daily News in Zimbabwe, and Laura Elvin, Head of News at UK-based SWNS.
The JIL Programme combines online weekly seminars with three intensive learning blocks, two of which can be attended in person at UCLan’s Preston Campus. Participants are paired with senior mentors from leading media organisations, including the BBC, Bloomberg, CNN, Google, The Guardian, and The Times. This mentorship allows participants to navigate the challenges of modern journalism with guidance from those at the forefront of the industry.
Interested applicants are invited to attend an upcoming Q&A session at 5pm GMT on 11 November on Teams here, where the JIL team, current participants, and mentors will discuss the programme and answer questions. This is a great opportunity to explore how the JIL Programme can help advance your career in media leadership.
Applications for the 2025 programme, including scholarship applications, are open until Monday, November 18. More information on the JIL Programme and its scholarship places is available on the Media Innovation Studio website, or you can reach out to the JIL team at JILeaders@uclan.ac.uk.
As media companies face profound challenges, from technological disruptions to public mistrust, the question remains: Who will lead the newsrooms of tomorrow?
The Journalism Innovation and Leadership Programme’s graduates may very well be the answer.
