Maharat Foundation, in partnership with the Media and Journalism Research Center (MJRC), is proud to introduce the second cohort of the Young Media Researchers Program in Lebanon, implemented as part of the project “Media Reform to Enhance Freedom of Expression in Lebanon,” supported by the European Union.

The fellowship builds on MJRC’s experience supporting emerging researchers and aims to strengthen academic engagement in media reform debates while encouraging decentralized participation from universities across Lebanon.

The fellowship includes an intensive program combining research training, mentorship, and publication support. Through their work, they will explore critical issues at the intersection of media, technology, governance, artificial intelligence, information integrity, and freedom of expression. It provides a unique opportunity for young researchers to develop their analytical and research skills, engage with leading regional and international experts, and contribute evidence-based insights to ongoing discussions on media reform and information governance in Lebanon.

Representing diverse academic backgrounds and regions across the country, this second cohort reflects the program’s commitment to fostering a new generation of researchers capable of connecting academic knowledge with public policy and societal impact.

Meet the five fellows who will be shaping this journey and contributing to the future of media and technology research in Lebanon:

Marita Aouad is a journalist who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Communication and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Diplomacy and International Relations, both at the Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK). Her interests focus on media, diplomacy, regional and international affairs, and strategic communication, particularly the role of media in shaping political narratives, public discourse, and international engagement. She aspires to build a career that bridges journalism, diplomacy, and international relations, contributing to informed public discourse and a deeper understanding of regional and global issues.

Nadia Ahmad is a Lebanese journalist, public policy researcher, and political analyst. Her research is centered on the Near and Middle East, focusing on themes such as conflict analysis, conflict resolution, peace mapping, and political polarization. 

Joelle Al Kaasamani is a graduate student in International Affairs at the Lebanese American University, with a background in political science and a research interest in the intersection of politics, security, artificial intelligence, and human rights. She has experience in political analysis, policy research, and diplomatic affairs. She has also contributed to research and policy initiatives with local and international organizations.

Batoul Kanjo is a Lebanese lawyer and legal researcher from Akkar and a member of the Tripoli Bar Association. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Business Law. She has experience in legal assistance, human rights, refugee law, and arbitration. Her professional interests include international law, politics, media law, digital governance, arbitration, and the legal challenges posed by emerging technologies.

Asia Mourad is a Master’s student in Political Science, currently in her third semester of study. Her academic interests focus on contemporary political issues, with a particular emphasis on researching and analyzing political developments and understanding their impact on society.