PBMF is an affiliate of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ). 
Robert L. Vann Media Awards
In 1988, the Pittsburgh Black Media Federation launched its journalism awards competition. It was named for Robert L. Vann, legendary publisher of the Pittsburgh Courier, to honor his personal commitment to journalism and to creating a voice for the black community. These awards, given annually, recognize the best in print, broadcast, photography and commentary relating to or showing the diversity of African American life in Western Pennsylvania. Winners are recognized at a jazz reception. Since its founding, PBMF has given away more than 200 media awards.
For more information click here.
Frank Bolden Urban Journalism Workshop
The Frank Bolden Urban Journalism Workshop turned 20 years old in 2003. Named for the pioneering black journalist who was an editor and reporter for the Pittsburgh Courier, the workshop is a seven-day program that has introduced scores of high school students to what it is like to work for a newspaper, television network or radio station.
Students, mostly high school juniors and seniors, have come from as far away as California and New Jersey. They stay for a week on campus at Point Park College in Downtown Pittsburgh, where they get a comprehensive taste of real-world journalism.
Their days are filled with taking notes, writing copy and interviewing local and national experts and professionals. They work with dozens of local media professionals, who guide the students through the artistic intricacies of arranging and conducting interviews, organizing stories and editing audio and videotape.
When the students "graduate" a week later, they have experienced the excitement of seeing their bylines or photographs in a student newspaper printed by a local newspaper, watching videotape of their interviews and news broadcast produced with the support of the local television stations or hearing their voices professionally taped and edited at a radio station.
Much of the activity is guided by local broadcaster Chris Moore, the "father" of the workshop, who founded the Pittsburgh workshop after having been involved with one in St. Louis.
For more information on click here. To download an application click here.
Soul Cafe'
The Soul Cafe' is an evening of artistic expression that includes some of the Pittsburgh region's most talented singers, writers, poets, musicians, et al.
Begun in 2001, the event also includes a silent auction and has become the major fundraiser for the PBMF's scholarship fund.
For more information click here.
