Chelsea Foundation and BCOMS award bursaries to two aspiring journalists for the second year in a row.
Congratulations to Sirayah-Shiraz Koraltan and Jospeph Sam who have been selected for the second year of the Chelsea FC X BCOMS bursary. They will both begin studying at News Associates in February 2023 where they will complete an NCTJ course which will be fundamental for their development as sports journalists.
The bursary sets out to completely fund two students from under-represented backgrounds and offer a contribution to their living expenses.
When receiving the bursary, Joseph stated ” I feel blessed to be selected as one of the candidates for this year’s bursary programme with New Associates, and I am so grateful for this opportunity given to me by Chelsea and BCOMS.
I’m really excited to be at a top UK journalism school, and learning from all the experienced tutors and growing and improving my skills in journalism.
My hope is that in completing the programme, I make a positive contribution to diversifying sports media, and set an example for anyone looking to follow suit.”
Sirayah also expressed her excitement ” I am grateful to be named one of the recipients of the 2023 Chelsea x BCOMS bursary. I’m looking forward to blossoming into an esteemed and innovative sports journalist. This bursary means a great deal, as it directly facilitates my hope to connect and diversity England’s sports media. “
Sirayah and Joseph were among eight other candidates also interviewed for the bursary by a panel from across Chelsea FC, BCOMS and News Associates.
Leon Mann MBE, founder of BCOMS said ” BCOMS is really proud that our partnership with the Chelsea Foundation is making such an impact. The recipients of the bursary are incredibly impressive and we can see them going on to make waves in the sports media. This collaboration is a powerful example of what can be achieved when the industry works together for positive change. A big thank you to Chelsea for their continued support and commitment. “
News Associates editorial development manager Lucy Dyer said: ” We’re thrilled to be working with BCOMS and Chelsea FC again on this scheme. We’re really looking forward to welcoming Joesph and Sirayah on the course next month. “
