New America Fellows
The New America Fellows Program supports thinkers, creators, and storytellers whose work shapes public conversation on the defining issues of our time. Each year, we select a diverse group of writers, journalists, filmmakers, and innovators who pursue ambitious investigative projects that bridge storytelling with research and lived experience.
Through unrestricted funding, a supportive community, and increased visibility, New America Fellows bring big, bold ideas to life—through books, films, longform articles, podcasts, and other creative nonfiction narrative forms.
Raúl O. Paz-Pastrana on Filmmaking and the Myth of the “Perfect Migrant”
New America 2020 Fellow Raúl O. Paz-Pastrana spoke about filmmaking and the myth of the “perfect migrant”.
Daniela Lamas on COVID-19, Writing About Medicine, and the Value of Taking Notes
New America 2020 Fellow Daniela Lamas spoke about the human side of medicine.
Vann R. Newkirk II on natural disasters, podcasting, and reporting on trauma
New America 2020 Fellow Vann R. Newkirk II spoke about his podcast, Floodlines.
The Longest War
Greg Barker documents how the U.S. mission in Afghanistan became a murky, drawn‑out conflict—America’s longest war.
Sarah J. Jackson on Twitter Movements, Collaboration, and the Power of Media
New America 2019 Fellow Sarah J. Jackson spoke about media and social movements.
Greg Barker on His New Feature Film, Storytelling, and Deeper Truths
New America 2018 Fellow Greg Barker spoke about his film Sergio.