Background and Objectives
Karnali Province has been undergoing visible transformation in recent years—improvements in road connectivity, expansion of digital access, growth in entrepreneurship, and gradual strengthening of governance systems. However, many of these positive changes remain undocumented or underrepresented in mainstream narratives.
“Badalido Karnali” aims to capture these evolving stories from the ground—told by emerging writers who understand the local context.
Fellowship Description
Badalido Karnali fellowship is for journalists, content creators, researchers and civil society leaders based in Karnali, who have demonstrated an interest in writing, journalism, or storytelling. Eight fellows, spread across the geographic diversity of Karnali, will document real stories of change across the province. Each fellow will develop one story around development and governance, based on research and evidence. By focusing on specific achievements and changes, these stories aim to shift the regional narrative toward a more positive, evidence-based, and opportunity-driven discourse.
A dedicated mentor will work with the selected fellows to develop their ideas into an impact story documenting the journey of change in the given context, highlighting major milestones, actors, challenges, and lessons learned. The stories will be published in national and/or provincial media, and will also be compiled into an e-book which will be shared through Hriti Foundation’s official website and social media platforms.
Eligibility
The Badalido Karnali fellowship is open to journalists, researchers, content creators, and community activists whore are currently residing and working in the district from which the application is made. Applicants must have a demonstrated interest in writing, journalism, or storytelling, and a basic understanding of development and governance is preferred.
Application Details
Applicants are required to submit three story ideas (summary only) – that show significant, positive impacts and changes in the community/district resulting from provincial or local government initiatives or community-led initiatives towards social or economic transformation.
Some Possible Components to be addressed in Story
- Infrastructure development (roads, transport, energy)
- Digital transformation (internet access and usage, digital services, e-commerce)
- Local economic development (agriculture, forestry, tourism, entrepreneurship)
- Public delivery service (health, education, WASH)
- Social development (Inclusion, participation, equity)
- Local governance and leadership development
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by submitting the application forms, no later than 10 may 2026. Limited tech access? Applicant may submit their applications or reach out via WhatsApp or call at 9858034426. If applicants wish to submit a hard copy application, please download the form, fill it out, and drop the documents at the Hriti Foundation office (location- https://shorturl.at/48rRj ) during office hours (Monday–Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM).
Fellows will be selected through a competitive process based on the quality of the story ideas pitched in their applications. Special consideration will be given to ensuring the inclusion of women, as well as individuals from ethnic and marginalized community and people with disability. Individuals representing gender and ethnic minority groups and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
The language will be Nepali.
Compensation
Fellows will receive stipend of NRS. 20,000 (Inclusive of all taxes).
Note: Travel costs will not be covered separately; the stipend is inclusive of all project-related expenses.
Fellowship Duration: 15 May to 15 June 2026
Application Deadline: 10 May 2026
