Monash journalism student Nyibol Gatluak has won the inaugural Walkley Opportunity Scholarship which offers a 10-week newsroom placement in Sydney.

The scholarship has been introduced to address the lack of opportunities for journalists from socio-economically disadvantaged communities in Australia.

Nyibol, a student from the School of Media, Film and Journalism (MFJ), will undertake a 10-week placement at Australian Associated Press (AAP) in Sydney early next year.

She will receive a $10,000 stipend during the placement, thanks to support from Ampol.

Nyibol will be mentored by AAP’s leading journalists and learn about the intricacies of the national wire’s news business as it produces content for the media industry.

Western Australia’s Liam Murphy is the only other national scholarship winner who will work in Sydney’s SBS newsroom.

Walkley Foundation chief executive Shona Martyn said the foundation was “committed to supporting an Australian media that represents our country today with all its differences of opportunity and background”.

“We need journalists who understand every corner of Australia from their lived experience,” Ms Martyn said

“We are not well served as news consumers if our journalists are drawn from similar backgrounds or positions of privilege. This new Opportunity Scholarship is an excellent foot-in-the-door for two impressive young journalists”.

Nyibol said winning the scholarship would have an “everlasting impact on my career as a journalist”.

“It makes me feel like there is a place for me in this industry and that I can accomplish anything,” Nyibol said.

“It is a privilege to be able to complete my final semester while working in a newsroom with experienced Journalists at AAP in Sydney. I can’t wait to contribute to the future of ethical journalism in Australia and I am even more excited for what is to come.”

The AAP judging panel said Nyibol had demonstrated a great deal of resilience and commitment to her pursuit of a career in journalism.

“Her unique lived experience fuels her passion for writing about social issues and under-represented communities, and she has a track record of making the most of the opportunities available to her,” the judges said.

“AAP is thrilled to welcome Nyibol into our newsroom as the inaugural Walkley Opportunity Scholar. We have no doubt she will gain invaluable experience that will support her future success.”