Science Writers and Communicators of Canada Revenue

About Science Writers and Communicators of Canada

Science Writers & Communicators of Canada (SWCC) was initially founded in 1971 as the Canadian Science Writers’ Association by a small group of science and medical reporters who recognized their role in helping other Canadians better understand rapid changes occurring in our world. In 2017, the association updated its mandate to more adequately reflect the expanding nature of science communication, and to become more inclusive to those contributing to public scientific discourse across a full spectrum of channels. Today, we are a national association that welcomes media professionals, communications officers in science and technology-related institutions, technical writers and educators – all of whom are involved in communicating science and technology to non-specialist audiences. We foster a community that links science and technology communicators from coast-to-coast. In the process, our members volunteer their time toward a series of programs committed to increasing public awareness of, and engagement with, Canadian science and technology. SWCC operates several programs, including its annual conference, which brings together scientists, engineers, journalists, communicators, educators, and interested citizens. Held in a different city each year, the conference highlights local developments in science and technology, and combines public forums and educational workshops with a focus on communicating the importance of such developments to the public. For over 20 years, the SWCC has recognized outstanding contributions to science writing with the annual SWCC Book Awards through two awards, the General Category Award and Youth Category Award. Since 2021 the SWCC has offered the Paradigm Prize for Underrepresented Perspectives in Science Writing. Eligible recipients for the Paradigm Prize include a first-time author, an author/illustrator from an equity-seeking or underrepresented background, and/or work published by a small press or independent publisher.

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