The Canadian Journalism Foundation (CJF) has launched a new award in partnership with the AI Safety Foundation that recognizes journalism critically examining the safety implications of artificial intelligence (AI).
Named for 2024 Nobel Prize winner and University of Toronto Professor Emeritus Geoffrey Hinton – whose work on artificial neural networks has earned him the moniker of
“the godfather of AI” – the new CJF Hinton Award for Excellence in AI Safety Reporting recognizes journalism that not only identifies AI challenges, but additionally explores ways to mitigate its risks, advancing public conversation on how AI technology can be developed and applied responsibly. The winner will receive a $10,000 prize, presented at the CJF’s annual awards ceremony in Toronto.
“‘Catastrophic risk’ refers to rare, extreme events that pose significant threats to human health and safety on a global scale. While AI offers tremendous potential for positive change, responsible development and implementation requires careful attention to safety considerations,” said CJF President and Executive Director Natalie Turvey, in an announcement. “The goal of this award is to promote thoughtful, evidence-based reporting that raises awareness of catastrophic risks associated with AI, foster public understanding and encourage dialogue on creating a safer future for humanity.”
“At a time when AI is advancing faster than our understanding of its risks, quality journalism has never been more critical,” Turvey continued. “While a senior executive at Google, Geoffrey Hinton transformed AI from theory to reality, and now he’s leading the conversation about keeping it safe. This award recognizes journalists who help Canadians navigate the most consequential technology of our time – understanding not just what AI can do, but what we must do to ensure it serves humanity’s best interests.”
“As AI advances rapidly, we urgently need rigorous reporting that examines its safety risks and explores how to address them,” added Hinton. “This award highlights the vital role journalists play in advancing the public debate on AI’s future.”
The award is open to Canadian journalists or teams whose work is published on a national media platform. Submissions will open in December, with a deadline for entries of Jan. 16.
Formats accepted span long-form investigative reporting or series; digital media/multimedia storytelling; podcast; audio reporting (e.g., radio features); and documentary (audio or video).
