The strategic aim of MMLP is to help strengthen the media sector in Macedonia through the professional development of journalists and media professionals. MMLP leaders:

• Strengthen their media competencies and professionalism as journalists
• Develop their leadership skills
• Build their professional networks in the media sphere

Media professionals selected for the MMLP will participate in four-month fellowships in the United States. The 2016–2017 program will take place between August and December of 2016 and will include:

• Fellowship with US host institution: MMLP leaders are carefully matched with a media outlet, nonprofit organization, or other media-focused institution for four months of hands-on experience in the United States. Leaders will support their host institutions in a variety of capacities that match their professional experiences and interests. Examples of MMLP leaders’ responsibilities at host institutions include, but are not limited to, supporting the investigative coverage of local news stories, coordinating social media efforts and outreach, producing multimedia content for online media platforms, and conducting media literacy programs for youth.
• Media and leadership training: While working with their US host organizations, MMLP leaders engage in a series of media and leadership training sessions online and in person.
• Networking opportunities: MMLP leaders are provided with opportunities to network with media professionals and media outlets in the United States.
• Media pilot projects: MMLP leaders will also plan a small-scale media project to implement when they return back home to Macedonia after their US fellowship.

Public Affairs Section of the US Embassy

E-mail: mmlp@irex.org