We made a promise and we intend to keep it, as Finns usually do… During even years, ie starting 2016, we start organizing smaller and shorter FCP alumni meetings for handpicked media professionals that have previously participated in the FCP programme, or the Young Journalists programme, as it was first called in the 90’s. Come and spend a week learning about Finland today, Finnish society and the Finnish way of life – not forgetting meeting friends that have had the same original and mind-blowing FCP experience in their lives!
For the past 25 years over 400 young journalists have lived and breathed Finland for a month or so in August. Last year we had over 1500 applications for the 20 positions. The programme has always been a highlight of our year here at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. We intend to continue this every second year, the uneven years. If you are a young media professional, then the next chance is in 2017, when Finland turns 100 years old.
For this year’s alumni edition the country selections have been made from the region around the Baltic sea and from countries that are involved in arctic business, politics and research. This is reflecting two current issues: 1) Finland is the president of the Nordic Council of Ministers in 2016 and 2) Finland will be the president of the next Arctic Council period starting from 2017. If you were left out this time, remember that the next alumni meeting will be already in 2018 and we intend to focus on the southern hemisphere then. We couldn’t be more thrilled!
Who’s eligible for the 2016 FCP alumni edition?
This year’s Foreign Correspondents’ Programme – Alumni Edition is definitely for you, if you are:
- A media professional that has participated in the programme of FCP or Young Journalists between 1990-2013.
- You have participated from or are currently living in one of the following countries: Canada, China, Estonia, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Poland, Russia, United Kingdom, United States.
- You are an active media professional working in a media house (TV, print or Web) or in social media, for example as an accomplished blogger or vlogger, or otherwise involved in the communications sphere or politics.
- You are still interested in learning new things, meeting new people from different cultures and spending a week in Finland.
- You are excited to meet Finland again and continue to be a lifelong friend of ours!
What does the programme include?
The Foreign Correspondents’ Programme starts on August 22nd and ends on August 28th, 2016. The programme is as intensive as ever, and includes briefings on various subjects, meetings with Finnish professionals and visits to business enterprises, cultural sites and institutions. It also includes a stay as the guest of a Finnish family.
The programme provides an excellent opportunity to update your hands on knowledge about Finland but it also offers the means to expand your network of professional colleagues and international friends.
What costs are covered?
The scholarship covers the costs of travel to and from Finland, local travel in Helsinki, accommodation and the daily programme, including transportation and some meals. The programme does not cover medical insurance, per diem allowance or meals not listed as part of the programme.
Applications?
If you are interested as a FCP alumni, please check our next blog on March 22nd for more information and instructions on how to apply.
More information?
Facebook: thisisFINLAND Foreign Correspondents’ Programme
Website: Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland: thisisFINLAND Foreign Correspondents’ Programme
Website: thisisFINLAND.fi