CABJ, TD team up to Launch Media Startup Bootcamp

For Immediate Release

Black digital content creators have an exciting new learning option as they gain influence in the media landscape. The Canadian Association of Black Journalists (CABJ) is pleased to launch its Media Startup Bootcamp. Enrolment is now open!

The CABJ Media Startup Bootcamp is a three-week training program that will help increase the number of Black content creators by equipping them with the tools and knowledge they need to build and launch their own platforms. Graduates will compete for five CABJ startup grants of $5,000 each.

“It’s a new day for Black journalists in Canadian media,” says CABJ Executive Director Nadia Stewart. “If we’re truly going to empower Black journalists, that means giving them the tools they need to tell their own stories via their own startups.”

The CABJ Media Startup Bootcamp is excited to have Camille and Roger Dundas, the power couple who co-founded ByBlacks.com, on-board as instructors. They are eager to share the expertise and wisdom that has enabled them to build Canada’s premiere Black online magazine.

“I’m really excited that the ByBlacks team could play a central role in leading this bootcamp because it’s truly a way for us to live out our values as a company,” says Dundas, a veteran former news producer at CBC and CTV.  “We’re committed to supporting the young media mavens-in-the-making who will be our leaders of tomorrow.”

The CABJ is grateful for the support TD Bank Group (TD) has shown this program since the idea was first conceived. They are the program's exclusive financial services sponsor. "TD came alongside, offering their support when this program was just an idea," Stewart says. "They are a big part of why we're able to make this announcement today."

"TD is thrilled to work with the Canadian Association of Black Journalists and support the new Media Startup Bootcamp, says Naki Osutei, Associate Vice President, Social Impact Canada, TD Bank Group. "The Media Startup Bootcamp is an immersive program that will help amplify the voices of Black journalists, editors and content creators and will help ensure that the distinct, valuable lenses Black journalists bring can be shared with all Canadians."

All CABJ Media Startup Boot Camp classes are virtual. Classes begin on Monday, November 2, with events in February 2021 to announce seed grant recipients. Visit cabjmediabootcamp.ca to learn more.

Media inquiries:

Nadia Stewart, CABJ Executive Director - 604-612-2134

contact@cabj.news