site.btaAmerican University in Bulgaria Launches Christo Grozev Fellowship, Scholarship Program

The American University in Bulgaria (AUBG) announced the launch of two initiatives dedicated to supporting and nurturing the next generation of investigative journalists: the Christo Grozev Fellowship for Courageous Journalism at the Center for Information, Democracy, and Citizenship (CIDC) and the Christo Grozev Scholarship Program.

Grozev, an esteemed alumnus of AUBG, has distinguished himself as a formidable investigative journalist, gaining international acclaim. His investigative reporting, which has landed him on Russian President Vladimir Putin's "most-wanted" list, is characterized by meticulous research and unwavering dedication to uncovering the truth. His work underscores the critical role of journalism in safeguarding democracy and advocating for justice. "Grozev's achievements serve as an inspiration to aspiring journalists and media professionals worldwide, embodying the spirit of resilience and the pursuit of truth in the face of adversity. Through his fearless pursuit of truth and dedication to unveiling injustices, Grozev exemplifies the profound impact that courageous journalism can have on society," AUBG said. 

The Fellowship aims to cultivate a new generation of fearless reporters committed to truth and justice. It represents a vital step toward fostering a network of journalists who are not only adept at uncovering the truth but also resilient in the face of attempts to silence them. The program will empower journalists with the skills, resources, and ethical grounding necessary to conduct in-depth investigations in an increasingly complex global landscape, fostering a culture of accountability and transparency, which are essential for the health and wellbeing of democratic societies, the University explained.

The program includes in-person immersion at AUBG, mentorship from seasoned investigative journalists, and opportunities for cross-border collaboration. Fellows will also have access to resources and support to undertake significant investigative projects that uphold democratic principles and promote human rights.

The Christo Grozev Scholarship Program in Media Studies and Journalism seeks to provide comprehensive support to aspiring AUBG student journalists from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds, equipping them with the skills, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive in an ever-evolving media landscape.

Grozev is a graduate of the AUBG first class and started the University's Radio AURA. His investigations into the identity of the suspects involved in the 2018 poisoning of Sergei and Yulia Skripal earned him and his team the European Press Prize for Investigative Journalism. He supervised a multi-national investigation into the nerve-agent poisoning of Alexey Navalny, for which the joint investigative team was awarded the German Nannen Prize and two Emmy's for investigative journalism. Grozev appeared in the film Navalny, which won an Academy Award for best documentary in 2023.

"AUBG gave me by far the best and most formative years of my life. It taught me to be brave and to defend my opinions. It taught me to be compassionate, empathetic and unprejudiced. It gave me my first startup, Radio AURA, before startups were trendy, and it taught me the power of critical thinking. Honor the truth and follow your dreams with dignity and passion," Grozev said, addressing the AUBG commencement ceremony in 2022.