Democracy defenders: a conversation with funders investing in independent journalism
Thu 10 April 2025
14:00 - 14:50
Free
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Media funders have long sought to strengthen democracy through support of journalism. But now, with authoritarian attempts to undermine press freedom on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean, journalism funders are facing urgent questions about how to respond effectively. How can philanthropy bolster press freedom in countries where press freedom is under siege? What investments are needed to combat disinformation, support quality news and information, and ensure diverse voices are heard?
This session invites you to an open conversation with leading funders working to build and sustain a free press. They’ll share their priorities and strategies for addressing today’s global challenges—and they want to hear from you.
Come prepared to ask questions, offer insights, and explore how funders and stakeholders can work together to sustain and strengthen independent journalism in an increasingly polarized world.
Moderated by Vince Stehle.
Organised in association with Media Impact Funders.
Modified more than a month ago
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Festival Internazionale del Giornalismo
Il Festival Internazionale del Giornalismo di Perugia è un evento annuale che riunisce professionisti dei media, esperti di comunicazione e appassionati di informazione da tutto il mondo. Si svolge nel centro storico di Perugia e offre conferenze, dibattiti, workshop e opportunità di networking sui temi più rilevanti del giornalismo contemporaneo.
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Angelica Das
Angelica Das is director for Equitable Journalism on the Public Square team at Democracy Fund, an independent foundation working toward an open and just democracy. Democracy Fund makes grants in pursuit of a vibrant and diverse public square, free and fair elections, effective and accountable government, and a just and inclusive society. The Equitable Journalism initiatives aim to sustain resilient news and information ecosystems as core civic infrastructure and to support leaders of color who are shifting journalism to build a more inclusive multiracial democracy. Angelica joined Democracy Fund after working as a consultant and Senior Associate with Dot Connector Studio, a production company that collaborates with funders, journalists, and experts to research and develop social impact media. She was previously associate director at the Center for Media & Social Impact Media at American University. She produced the Center’s annual Media That Matters industry conference, and supported filmmakers to exercise journalistic practice to mitigate safety, security, and litigation risks in investigative storytelling. She has worked extensively with independent media makers on impact strategies and with nonprofits on communications, operations, and grants management. Angelica holds an M.A. in International Media from American University and a B.A. in Political Science and History from the University of Rochester.
Vince Stehle
Vince Stehle is Executive Director of Media Impact Funders. Before joining Media Impact Funders in 2011 as executive director, Vince was program director for Nonprofit Sector Support at the Surdna Foundation, a family foundation based in New York City. Prior to joining Surdna, Stehle worked for 10 years as a reporter for the Chronicle of Philanthropy, where he covered a broad range of issues about the nonprofit sector. Stehle has served as chairperson of Philanthropy New York and on the governing boards of VolunteerMatch, the Nonprofit Technology Network (NTEN) and the Center for Effective Philanthropy.
Nienke Venema
Nienke Venema is the managing director of Stichting Democratie en Media (SDM), a foundation dedicated to strengthening democracy and supporting independent journalism. Since 2014, she has overseen the foundation’s role as an idealistic shareholder in De Correspondent and DPG Media, safeguarding the continuity of their high-quality, independent journalism. Under her leadership, the foundation has played a pivotal role in fostering a vibrant and resilient media landscape in the Netherlands, recognizing independent media as a cornerstone of democracy. Nienke also developed SDM’s grant-making program, which has provided significant funding to initiatives that support independent journalism, foster a more inclusive public debate, advance democratic renewal, and uphold the rule of law. In addition, she serves as Chair of the European Press Prize Board, which recognizes excellence in journalism across Europe. With academic credentials from the University of Cambridge and the University of Amsterdam, her work reflects a steadfast commitment to creating the conditions for democratic values to thrive.