The Journalism Diversity Fund (JDF) has introduced the latest recipients receiving the award for aspiring journalists from socially or ethnically diverse backgrounds.

The fund aims to assist candidates wishing to break into journalism who do not have the financial means to support themselves through the National Council Training for Journalists (NCTJ) training.

The scheme is backed by a range of industry supporters including Reach, Newsquest, Bloomberg, Reuters, Sky, the Financial Times, Associated Newspapers, the Google News Initiative, PA Media and the BBC.

The JDF is supported by Cision as well as the Society of Editors.

The fund, which is marking its 15th anniversary this year, is open to candidates who can prove they will bring diversity to a newsroom.

To be eligible candidates must demonstrate that have secured a place on an eligible NCTJ accredited course delivering the Diploma in Journalism, must be a UK citizen and have a genuine commitment and potential to be a successful journalist.

Candidates must also have a range of journalism-related work experience above and beyond experience on a student newspaper.

More details about the fund and how to apply for future awards can be found here.