To encourage Indigenous Peoples to pursue a career in journalism through a combination of studies at a Canadian post-secondary institution and experience in a newsroom. It was established in 1990 in honour of Gillis Purcell and his dedication to the quality of journalism as general manager of The Canadian Press from 1945 to 1969.
To be awarded to an Indigenous Peoples (status or non-status Indian, Metis or Inuit) enrolled at a Canadian university or college. The student must already be attending the post-secondary institution and must be either enrolled in a journalism program or actively involved with a news organization associated with the institution (e.g. student paper or broadcast station). The scholarship is open to French and English-speaking Indigenous Canadians.
A gift of $4,000, intended to defray education costs, is awarded to the successful applicant. Scholarship recipients with appropriate experience and qualifications may also receive an offer of temporary employment or other opportunities at The Canadian Press, at the sole discretion of the scholarship provider.
Deadline: Applications are due Nov. 1 of each year.
Selection: The selection of the scholarship recipient will be made by a committee comprising managers and supervisors at The Canadian Press, Canada's national news agency.
Application forms: Complete and submit your form here.
To improve the chances of being shortlisted for the scholarship and possibly receiving an offer of temporary employment, applicants are strongly encouraged to go beyond the requirements and: