YJI Courage in Journalism Award
by Youth Journalism International (YJI)
Crystal Trophy
International journalism award by YJI recognizing young journalists aged 19 and under for reporting done in difficult or risky circumstances. Crystal trophy for winners.
Mode
Online
Fee
$25
Participation format
Individual
Duration
Annual contest cycle
Time needed
Submission of previously published work
Eligibility
Open to non-professional journalists aged 19 and under worldwide. Work must have been published or broadcast in English. Entries from school publications, blogs, online papers, and other venues accepted.
- Age range
- Up to 19 years
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Prerequisites
- Published or broadcast journalism work in English demonstrating courage in reporting
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Prizes
Crystal Trophy
Top category winners receive a crystal trophy
Certificate
Award Certificate
Custom-made award certificates for all winners from first place to honorable mention
Recognition
International Journalism Recognition
Skills your child builds
Key dates
Last edition
- Registration closed
- 13 Feb 2026
- Results
- 2 May 2026
How to apply
- 1Submit entry via YJI online form with public link to published work
- 2Pay entry fee of $25 USD (fee waivers available)
Rules and guidelines
- Entrants must be non-professional journalists aged 19 or under
- All entries must be accessible online with a public link
- Work must have been published or broadcast in English
- Entries should demonstrate reporting done in difficult or risky circumstances
Technology requirements
- Internet access for online submission
Fees and financial support
Fee details
Entry fee is $25 USD. Fee waivers are available for individuals experiencing financial hardship.
About this opportunity
The YJI Courage in Journalism Award is a special recognition by Youth Journalism International (YJI), a nonprofit founded in 1994 in Connecticut, USA. The award recognizes young journalists aged 19 and under who have demonstrated courage by reporting in difficult or risky circumstances.
This is one of YJI's top award categories alongside Student Journalist of the Year, the First Amendment Award, and the Frank Keegan Award for News. Winners receive a crystal trophy, while all category winners from first place to honorable mention receive custom-made award certificates.
Entries are evaluated by more than two dozen judges including professional journalists, teachers, and media experts worldwide. The contest accepts entries from non-professional journalists worldwide who have published or broadcast work in English. Entry fee is $25 USD with fee waivers available for individuals experiencing financial hardship.
Rounds and format
Single round evaluation of previously published journalism work demonstrating courage
How entries are judged
Entries evaluated for courage demonstrated in reporting done in difficult or risky circumstances
Academic details
Difficulty: Intermediate
Frequently asked questions
How can participants enhance their chances of success in this journalism competition?
Participants can improve their chances by selecting a compelling story that clearly demonstrates courage in reporting, ensuring the work is well-researched, ethically sound, and presented professionally. Adhering strictly to all submission guidelines is also crucial for a strong entry.
What are common mistakes applicants should avoid when submitting their work?
Common mistakes include submitting work outside the specified publication dates, failing to provide a public and accessible link to the entry, not clearly articulating the 'courage' aspect of the reporting, or neglecting to proofread the submission form for errors. Attention to detail is key.
How does the judging panel evaluate the 'courage' aspect of a journalistic piece?
Judges assess 'courage' by considering the difficulty or risk involved in obtaining the story, the potential repercussions faced by the journalist, and the impact of the reporting in challenging authority or exposing truth, even in non-physical risk scenarios. The narrative of the reporting journey is important.
What kind of recognition do winners receive beyond the trophy and certificate?
Beyond the crystal trophy and custom certificate, winners gain international recognition for their courageous reporting, which can significantly enhance their portfolio and provide a strong foundation for aspiring investigative journalists. Their names are also published on the YJI website, offering valuable exposure.
Are there any specific themes or topics that are preferred for submissions?
While there are no specific preferred themes, the core requirement is that the journalism work demonstrates courage in reporting under difficult or risky circumstances. This can encompass a wide range of topics, from social justice issues to environmental concerns, as long as the element of courageous reporting is evident.
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