We are proud to announce Lotta Sahlin (Lund University) as the recipient of this year’s Michael Treschow Scholarship, awarded in collaboration with House of Innovation at Stockholm School of Economics. 

Lotta is recognized for her project “BLÄCKET / Little Journalist” (Umeå University) – an interactive and playful educational tool that invites children and teenagers to explore ethical and local journalism.

At a time marked by declining local news coverage, misinformation, and growing distrust in media, the project empowers young people to move from passive media consumption to active, critical participation. 

Through imaginative storytelling and fictional “zombie” scenarios, participants learn press-ethics and source criticism by stepping into the role of reporters themselves. The project is grounded in a strong, research-based design process and developed in close collaboration with children, teachers, and professional journalists, ensuring both relevance and real-world applicability.

Presented with clarity, warmth, and strong visual storytelling, BLÄCKET exemplifies human-centered innovation with societal impact. 

See the project in full, here.

The Michael Treschow Scholarship, established in 2003, has now been awarded 23 times and supports one student each year with 100,000 SEK to pursue Master’s-level studies. The scholarship seeks to encourage innovation and design that contribute meaningfully to society, human well-being, and a sustainable future. 

The program will run again in 2026 – keep an eye out for updates!

Thank you to everyone involved in continuing this long-standing collaboration between the Michael Treschow Scholarship and House of Innovation.