The Fulcrum and the Hortencia Zavala Foundation are joining forces in 2026 to expand opportunities for the next generation of journalists. Together, they are expanding The Fulcrum Fellowship, hosting two cohorts of students—one in the summer and one in the fall.
The Fulcrum Fellowship, part of The Fulcrum’s NextGen initiative, is a 10-week immersive program that trains students from across the country in solutions journalism and complicating the narrative techniques. Fellows learn to produce stories that counter one‑dimensional narratives too common in mainstream media, while amplifying underrepresented voices and perspectives.
Since its launch this year, the Fellowship has nurtured young journalists who are committed to equity, inclusion, and civic engagement. By expanding to two cohorts in 2026, The Fulcrum will double its reach, offering more students the chance to gain hands‑on experience in reporting that strengthens democracy and builds trust in civic dialogue.
Hugo Balta, Executive Editor of The Fulcrum, leads the initiative. "The Fellowship is more than a training program—it’s a commitment to building a new generation of journalists who listen deeply, report with integrity, and reflect the diversity of our nation. The partnership allows us to expand that mission and ensure more students have the tools to tell stories that matter.”
The HZF has been a steadfast supporter of students since its founding in 2017. The Foundation, created by Balta's family in honor of his maternal "abuelita", began by collaborating with the National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ) to identify scholarship recipients, then expanded its impact by launching a journalism camp in 2021 and adding paid internships in 2024.
This partnership reflects both organizations' ongoing investment in student success, ensuring that aspiring journalists—especially those from underrepresented communities—have access to mentorship, training, and professional opportunities that prepare them to thrive in the media industry.
"Together, The Fulcrum and the Hortencia Zavala Foundation are building a pipeline of diverse, equity‑minded journalists who will shape the future of civic media," said David Nevins, Publisher of The Fulcrum. "Public support is vital for NextGen initiatives. By donating, you help sustain these programs, expand opportunities for students, and strengthen the civic infrastructure on which our democracy depends."
Contributions are tax‑deductible to the extent permitted by law and go directly toward advancing the mission of these initiatives.
Please consider donating today to invest in the next generation of journalists and civic leaders by clicking HERE.
The Fulcrum is committed to nurturing the next generation of journalists. To learn about the many NextGen initiatives we are leading, click HERE.
