MEDIA professionals who have made an outstanding contribution to the field in Bahrain have been honoured during an annual awards ceremony.
They include three senior members of GDN personnel: Al Hilal Group managing director Ronnie Middleton, GDN deputy editor-in-chief Robert Smith and GDN senior reporter Sandeep Singh Grewal.
The awards were presented yesterday during the 2019 Khalifa Bin Salman Press Award ceremony at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain.
They were handed out by His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, who paid tribute to the role of the media.
“Honouring creative writers and journalists every year expresses our appreciation of their pivotal contributions and efforts to serve the country,” he said.
“Their exemplary messages in enlightening the masses through elite presentations, based on accurate and trusted information, is what allows it to progress and develop.
“Bahrain’s Press has a rich history with several pioneers. These awards will enhance creativity and encourage young generations to follow in the footsteps of true and proper expression.”
The annual awards event is organised by the Information Affairs Ministry in collaboration with the Bahrain Journalists Association (BJA).
Information Affairs Minister Ali Al Rumaihi stressed the importance of responsible journalism, particularly given the rapid development of new technologies.
“Challenges need to be faced with proper strategies as the world progresses and new technologies are introduced,” he said.
GDN editor-in-chief George Williams paid tribute to newspaper staff recognised yesterday.
“I am proud that two of my top journalists have been recognised at this prestigious national ceremony,” he said.
“They are helping every day to ensure that the GDN remains at the forefront.
“Sandeep is one of Bahrain’s most active investigative journalists. He has exposed much misinformation against Bahrain, even at UN level, and reported extensively on the country’s successful turnaround after political, social and sectarian unrest. He has become a unique voice for the ordinary Bahrain man and woman.
“Robert, as deputy editor-in-chief, is playing a pioneering role in promoting quality journalism in Bahrain.
“He is also a big supporter of social and charity campaigns to help both Bahrainis and expatriates.
“He continues to play a significant information role, ensuring voices are heard both locally and worldwide through online sites, while helping push back barriers to Press freedom on a daily basis.”
BJA president Ahdeya Ahmed said the award ceremony aimed to encourage creativity and competition among journalists.
“Journalists have an important mission and they need to continue being the voice of the people,” she said.
Winners of four dedicated award categories yesterday were Mustafa Nouraddin – Al Ayam (Best Interview), Mahmeed Al Mahmeed – Akhbar Al Khaleej (Best Column), Waleed Sabri – Al Watan (Best Report) and Abdulrasool Hujairi – Al Bilad (Best Photograph).
Honour
Others honoured for their contribution to the field were Dr Abdulla Al Hawaj, Ahmed Juma, Adel Al Marzooq, Mahmoud Rafique, Ian Fisher, George Middleton, Gerewyn Hopkins, David Bloomer and Meera Ravi.
Late Akhbar Al Khaleej deputy editor for local news, Lutfi Nasr, was also honoured posthumously yesterday.
mohammed@gdn.com.bh
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