February 20, 2025
February 20, 2025
When we launched the Foster the Future program in 2022, our vision was clear: to drive meaningful, long-lasting change in the public relations industry by providing opportunities for BIPOC students to enter and thrive in the field. As we step into our third year, we are thrilled to announce the next iteration of this initiative—one that reflects our continued commitment to building a more diverse and equitable industry.
More Partners, More Funding, More Opportunity
This year, Foster the Future is bigger than ever. Thanks to four new agency partners, and three returning from last year, we have secured $92,500 in fellowship awards for 2025, surpassing last year’s total by more than $10,000. Since its inception, the program has allocated over $250,000 in funding, demonstrating the industry’s dedication to fostering change. We are better when we work together.
These funds will go directly to students through scholarships, stipends, and paid internships, ensuring they gain financial support and hands-on experience. For the first time, Mission North and select partner agencies will offer in-person internships, reinforcing the importance of building professional networks and in-office collaboration.
Leaning In When Others Are Pulling Back
We are leaning in in a world where DEI initiatives are being pulled back. Communication has never been more important in a rapidly accelerating business, technology, political and social environment. A more diverse community of communicators is essential to helping organizations navigate change effectively. By fostering the next generation of diverse PR professionals, we ensure that businesses and institutions have the perspectives and insights necessary to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.
<split-lines>"A more diverse community of communicators is essential to helping organizations navigate change effectively. By fostering the next generation of diverse PR professionals, we ensure that businesses and institutions have the perspectives and insights necessary to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape."<split-lines>
Expanding Eligibility for Greater Impact
For 2025, Mission North has expanded our eligibility criteria. Previously open to women-identifying BIPOC students, Mission North’s the Future is…Fellowship is now open to all BIPOC students, recognizing the underrepresentation of male and gender-diverse individuals in PR. For example, Black men hold just 3% of entry-level PR roles, a statistic we are committed to changing. Intersectionality is key to addressing industry disparities, and we are excited to welcome an even broader range of voices into our field.
A meaningful Impact
The words of our fellows fuel us to continue. Our 2024 fellow Naiyana Wiliams had this to say about her experience: "After a summer with Mission North, I know how it feels to be celebrated, supported, and seen. This experience has changed my life and set the tone for the rest of my year."
<split-lines>"After a summer with Mission North, I know how it feels to be celebrated, supported, and seen. This experience has changed my life and set the tone for the rest of my year."<split-lines>
A Growing Industry Movement
Mission North is not alone in this effort. The eight participating agencies offer fellowships that vary in structure, but all provide real-world PR experience and meaningful financial support. The 2025 awards include:
- Mission North The Future Is… Fellowship: $35,000 scholarship, $6,000 fellowship stipend, eight-week internship (New York, NY, or San Francisco, CA)
- AGEAN Public Relations Fellowship: $2,500 scholarship, five-week remote internship
- The Bliss Group Bliss-Baker Fellowship: $5,000 scholarship, eight-week internship (New York, NY)
- LaunchSquad Fellowship: $15,000 scholarship, $4,000 fellowship stipend, eight-week remote internship
- Greenough Communications Fellowship: $3,500 scholarship, eight-week internship (Boston, MA)
- Hermes PR Fellowship: $5,000 scholarship, six-week internship (New York, NY)
- V2 Communications Fellowship: $2,500 fellowship, eight-week internship (Boston, MA)
- The Key PR Fellowship: $10,000 scholarship, $4,000 fellowship stipend, eight-week internship (San Francisco, CA)
The Road Ahead
The momentum behind Foster the Future is undeniable, but we know there is still work to do. As we look to the future, we remain steadfast in our belief that a more inclusive PR industry is possible and necessary.
<split-lines>"As we look to the future, we remain steadfast in our belief that a more inclusive PR industry is possible and necessary."<split-lines>
Applications for the 2025 Foster the Future fellowships are open through March 3, 2025. If you or someone you know is interested, we encourage you to apply here and be part of this transformative movement.
For more information or to get involved, please visit our website. Together, we are shaping the future of PR—one fellowship at a time.
