The Bell launches Jackson Youth Newsroom, bringing fresh voices to local journalism
Students from Jackson high schools will report for JYN with support from professional journalists
Photos by Imani Khayyam
JACKSON, Miss. — The Bell, a nonprofit dedicated to developing the next generation of journalists, has launched the Jackson Youth Newsroom (JYN). This groundbreaking initiative will train high school students in Jackson to become reporters, equipping them with multimedia journalism skills, mentorship from professional journalists, and platforms to tell stories that matter to their communities.
By empowering teens to report on the city from their perspective, JYN will bring new energy to local journalism. The newsroom will tell stories rooted in Jackson’s rich history and vibrant communities — bridging generations, tackling tough issues, and building a stronger future.
The first cohort includes eight interns from high schools across the city. They meet after school twice weekly at the JYN office in downtown Jackson, where they receive training in reporting, writing, and multimedia production. JYN will publish its first stories over the coming months at JacksonYouthNews.org and on Instagram at @JacksonYouthNews.
“The launch of Jackson Youth Newsroom expands access to journalism education and opens doors to media careers for Mississippi youth,” said Taylor McGraw, executive director of The Bell. “When young people have the tools and platforms to create journalism, they don’t just find their voices—they reshape the media landscape and bring untold stories to light.”
The Bell has operated youth journalism programs in New York City since 2017. It is expanding to Jackson to address the dearth of youth voices and storytelling in local news. In addition to professional journalism training, JYN will offer mentorship and engagement opportunities with the community, fostering long-lasting relationships with their neighbors and strengthening their civic knowledge.
“These students are gifted intellectuals and creatives who want to amplify their voices and those of their peers,” said Azia Wiggins, JYN program manager. “This program does more than give young people a seat at the table with adults. It empowers them to be pioneers — to bridge the stories of their elders with their own, and to shape the story of the next generation.”
The inaugural cohort is already hard at work, producing narratives that spotlight people who are making a difference in Jackson, and reflecting on the city’s challenges from a youth perspective.
“I joined JYN because I want to make a difference here in Jackson,” said Edgar Solis-Diaz, 10th grader at Murrah High School. “My goal here is to help young people, like myself, know that it's OK to speak up and let your voice be heard to make a change.”
“I believe that JYN will be a gateway for me to broaden my experiences and learn new things about myself and my community,” said Aubrea Caldwell, 10th grader at Lanier High School. “I hope to achieve a community within JYN that grows over time with hard work and dedication.”
The Jackson Youth Newsroom launched and operates with generous support from the Phil Hardin Foundation, whose commitment to education and community empowerment is helping to amplify the voices of young storytellers in Mississippi.
How to Get Involved
JYN will collaborate with local schools, media outlets, and community partners to provide students with the resources needed to produce high-quality journalism.
To support JYN’s young reporters or become a mentor, email info@jacksonyouthnews.org
For media inquiries, email Azia Wiggins: azia@jacksonyouthnews.org
Subscribe to the JYN newsletter
Follow JYN’s work on Instagram: @JacksonYouthNews
About The Bell
The Bell is a nonprofit organization that equips high school students — particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds — with the tools, mentorship, and opportunities to create impactful journalism. Through multimedia storytelling, in-depth reporting, and sector advocacy, The Bell ensures that young people’s voices are heard and that they gain access to meaningful careers in media. Learn more at bellvoices.org.
