The Asian American Journalists Assn.’s Los Angeles chapter, in partnership with the Los Angeles Times and the family of Gregory Yuen Yee, is excited to announce Damonya Jones as the recipient of a 2026 Yee training grant.
Congratulations, Damonya! Damonya received a $1,500 grant to support her transition to becoming a full-time multimedia journalist after graduating with a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Cal State Dominguez Hills in May.
The Gregory Yuen Yee Training Grants were established in honor of an outstanding young journalist who helped shape news coverage through his energy, dedication and precision, especially while chasing breaking news as a member of the L.A. Times’ Fast Break desk.
Yee, a sensitive and disciplined writer with exceptional curiosity and empathy, was passionate about local news. In that vein, AAJA-LA seeks to award grants to early-career journalists who are working to strengthen their journalistic skills and make deeper connections with their local communities.
Damonya is a member of AAJA-LA as well as the National Assn. of Black Journalists. She is currently working multiple jobs: as a sports writer for Game Haus, covering the NBA, WNBA and the NFL; as a production assistant at NBC Sports and Versant Media; and as an operations support specialist for CBS Sports.
As an undergraduate, Damonya worked as a staff reporter for Cal State Dominguez Hills’ student newspaper, the Bulletin, and as a multimedia journalist and reporter for Fullerton College’s student-run paper, the Hornet. She also interned for TMZ News, assisting with breaking entertainment and celebrity news coverage.
In addition to using the Yee grant for professional development courses focused on multimedia journalism, Damonya plans to spend part of the funding on equipment needed for field reporting and software subscriptions related to video editing.
“I am deeply honored to have been selected as a recipient of the Gregory Yuen Yee Training Grant. This support played a meaningful role in helping me continue my professional development and pursue opportunities that will strengthen my career in journalism and broadcasting.
“The grant helped offset expenses related to training and career advancement as I prepared for and transitioned into a new professional opportunity. Having this financial support allowed me to focus on developing my skills, gaining valuable experience, and taking important steps toward achieving my long-term career goals.
“I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the Yee family for their generosity and commitment to supporting aspiring journalists. Your investment in the next generation of media professionals makes a lasting impact, and I am truly thankful to have benefited from this opportunity. The Gregory Yuen Yee Training Grant not only provided financial assistance, but also served as a reminder that there are individuals and families who believe in and support our growth and success.
“Thank you again for your kindness and generosity. I am honored to be a recipient of this award and look forward to paying forward the support and encouragement that I have received.”
Learn more about the Gregory Yuen Yee Training Grants here.
— Rubaina Azhar, AAJA-LA general board member