Keerti Gopal, an Indian American journalist, has been awarded a prestigious investigative reporting fellowship from the Ida B. Wells Society for Investigative Reporting.
Keerti Gopal, a Chicago-based Indian American journalist, has been recognized for her impactful work in investigative journalism by winning a fellowship from the Ida B. Wells Society for Investigative Reporting. Gopal, who covers the intersections of climate change, public health, and environmental justice at Inside Climate News, expressed her excitement about the fellowship on LinkedIn, stating, “So excited for this, thank you to the Ida B. Wells Society!”
As one of ten professional journalists selected for the 2026 Fellowship Program, Gopal will participate in a rigorous six-month training initiative designed to enhance the skills of emerging journalists and support the production of investigative projects. This program, launched last year, aims to provide intensive training that equips journalists with the tools necessary for impactful reporting.
Before her current role, Gopal focused on climate activism and the repression of movements. She also completed a Fulbright-National Geographic Storytelling Fellowship in Taiwan, where she researched climate action and resilience. Her work has garnered recognition, and she is a National Geographic Explorer. Additionally, Gopal has received fellowships from the Solutions Journalism Network, The Lever, and the National Press Foundation, showcasing her commitment to impactful journalism.
Gopal holds a Bachelor of Arts in American Studies from Northwestern University, which has provided her with a solid foundation for her reporting endeavors.
Ron Nixon, director of the Associated Press Local Investigative Reporting Program and a co-founder of the Ida B. Wells Society, highlighted the significance of the 2026 fellowship cohort. He noted that this year’s group reflects the evolving landscape of investigative journalism, with a majority consisting of freelancers and individuals affiliated with nonprofit newsrooms. “This year’s class proves that some of the most vital watchdog reporting is now happening outside of traditional legacy outlets, and we are honored to support their efforts,” Nixon remarked.
The fellowship program began with a virtual orientation session last week, followed by a series of weeklong training sessions that commenced on February 22 in Atlanta. Participants will have the opportunity to learn from some of the industry’s leading investigative reporters and editors, further enhancing their skills and knowledge.
The Ida B. Wells Society for Investigative Reporting aims to increase the representation of traditionally underrepresented voices in investigative journalism. Fellowships are awarded based on various criteria, including news reporting experience, the applicants’ reporting philosophies, and the potential impact of the investigative pitches they submit.
Gopal’s selection for this fellowship underscores her dedication to addressing critical issues at the intersection of climate change and social justice, and her work is poised to contribute significantly to the field of investigative journalism.
According to Inside Climate News, Gopal’s achievements and the recognition she has received reflect the growing importance of diverse voices in journalism today.