Me In The Media Initiative

The Charlotte Area Association of Black Journalists (CAABJ) is pleased to announce the Me in Media Initiative. The mission of this initiative is to encourage African-American middle and high school students to consider careers in journalism and mass communications. Our goal is to foster growth in those who aspire to be journalists by introducing them to high-profile African Americans working in media-related professions. We are excited to launch this program during the historic Democratic National Convention, where select students will share the spotlight with nationally acclaimed journalists. This initiative will also challenge students to explore and express their views about the medias portrayal of the African-American community and experience. Four winners will be chosen from the Me In the Media initiative, to meet and partner with members of the national media during this years Democratic National Convention. We thank you in advance for your support.

Requirements Applicants must be of African descent living in the Charlotte region. Applicants must be in the 6th-12th grades as of May 31, 2012. Applicants must have permission to enter from a parent or legal guardian. Applicants must submit an original essay OR video on the following topic: Choose a specific issue in your community (bullying, education, recycling, health issues, etc) that needs more media coverage. Write an essay or create a video addressing that issue. o o Essays must be 250-350 words and in Mac or Word format. Videos must 2 3 minutes long. Video must be on a CD or DVD in .mov or .avi format, or a link to the uploaded video must be included on the application.

Completed applications with video or essay must be received by midnight June 9, 2012.

Email entries to info@caabj.com with Subject: Me In the Media Application, or mail to: Me In The Media Initiative Charlotte Area Association of Black Journalists PO Box 31024 Charlotte, NC 28231 CAABJ is a chapter of the National Association of Black Journalists. We are a nonprofit organization composed of writers, artists, managers, and talent from all of the major television stations, newspapers, and some of the most notable radio stations, magazines, web publications, and public relations firms in the greater Charlotte area. Our mission is to increase diversity in media organizations and the diversity of coverage as it relates to the African-American community.

Application
Name:_____________________________________________________________ Age: _______ Address: ________________________________________________________________________ City: ____________________________ ___________ State: ________ Zip Code: ____________ Email: ___________________________________________ Contact Number: ____________________ School: _____________________________________________________________ Grade: _________

Parent / Guardian Name(s): ______________________________________________________________ Contact Number: ___________________________ Email: _____________________________________ How did you hear about this program? _____________________________________________________ Name of teacher, advisor, program coordinator or other: _______________________________________ Contact Number, Address or Email:________________________________________________________ Essay or Video: ________ Link to Video (if applicable): ______________________________________

I have read the criteria and understand the application requirements. By submitting this application, I certify that I have obtained permission from my parent/legal guardian to participate in this program, and I understand that CAABJ may contact my parents, guardians, teacher, advisors, or program coordinators. Excerpts from entries may be used by CAABJ to promote The Me In The Media Initiative. Please sign and date to certify the above is true. If submitting electronically, enter your name, email address and the date. Applicant: ___________________________________________________________ Date:___________

Email entries to info@caabj.com with Subject: Me In the Media Application, or mail to: Me In The Media Initiative Charlotte Area Association of Black Journalists PO Box 31024 Charlotte, NC 28231