Planet Detroit’s Ethan Bakuli has received a big honor—he’s been chosen as one of six journalists for the 2026 National Science-Health-Environment Reporting Fellowships (SHERF). This fellowship is all about helping journalists focus on important issues related to climate, health, and environmental justice.
The SHERF program is run by the Association of Health Care Journalists, the Council for the Advancement of Science Writing, and the Society of Environmental Journalists. It provides early-career reporters with valuable training and networking opportunities. Supported by the Burroughs Wellcome Fund, the fellows get mentorship and access to major national conferences, which helps them grow in their careers.
Kelsey Ryan, executive director of AHCJ, shared her excitement about the new fellows. “This is one of the best fellowship programs because it connects science, health, and the environment,” she said. Bakuli himself is eager to expand his knowledge in these areas. He believes that the skills and insights he gains will enhance his reporting on issues like flooding and air pollution, especially in vulnerable communities.
Bakuli’s SHERF selection adds to his impressive list of achievements. Just a few months ago, he was recognized for the USC Health and Climate Change Reporting Fellowship. This opportunity allows him to look into the health challenges faced by Metro Detroiters due to flooding, particularly in neighborhoods that experience severe flooding. His work, supported by USC, will be published in Planet Detroit next year.
In another exciting development, Planet Detroit is participating in the Solutions Journalism Network’s Revenue Accelerator Program starting in March 2026. This program aims to produce meaningful stories that highlight what’s working in local communities. Bakuli will create at least two detailed reports each month focusing on real solutions to issues like flooding, air quality, and food access—showing not just the problems, but also how people are making life better.
His recent investigative work has shown how continuous flooding impacts families, leading to health risks and financial problems, especially in areas that have faced neglect. This type of reporting is vital for shedding light on the interconnectedness of environmental and public health challenges.
Before joining Planet Detroit, Bakuli reported on education and community issues for Chalkbeat Detroit and freelanced on race and labor topics. He also has experience teaching high school students how to tell stories through audio and visual media, reinforcing his belief in the importance of community-driven journalism.
The SHERF fellowship is a highly competitive program; since its inception in 2022, over 35 journalists have been part of it. It’s clear that Bakuli is making significant strides in his career, and this fellowship will help him take his reporting to the next level.
