BY MORRIS NAFU
The Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI) hosted its award night at the Heritage Park Hotel, celebrating the achievements of local journalists amidst challenges in the media landscape.
The event, themed “Celebrating the Strength and Spirit of Solomon Islands Media,” brought together media professionals from print, radio, and television sectors to recognize outstanding contributions in journalism.
New Zealand’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Jonathan Schwass, himself a former journalist, commended Solomon Islands journalists for their dedicated coverage of the recent National Joint Elections.
Addressing attendees, Schwass acknowledged the evolving nature of journalism, which he described as placing increasing demands on media practitioners.
“Journalism has changed significantly over the years, making the work of journalists much more challenging,” Schwass remarked.
He highlighted the persistent pressures faced by the media, citing attempts by governments and corporations to limit freedom of speech.
“In many parts of the world, journalists continue to face risks, with some paying the ultimate price for simply doing their job,” Schwass added.
The High Commissioner also drew attention to a perennial issue affecting journalists globally — low pay.
“One thing that hasn’t changed is the issue of low pay in newsrooms around the world, including here in Solomon Islands,” Schwass noted, underlining the financial challenges journalists confront in their profession.
It’s a passion that strives journalist to keep going though facing financial challenges.
The top Journalists and organisation awarded in the MASI 2024 award night are as follows:
- Print Journalist of the Year – Ulutah Gina (Solomon Star)
- Online Journalist of the Year – Fredrick Kusu (SIBC)
- TV Journalist of the Year – Chrisnrita Leong (ABC Pacific)
- Radio Journalist of the Year – Eliza Kukutu (SIBC)
- Court Reporter of the Year – Assumpta Buchanan (Solomon Star)
- Sports Reporter of the Year – Elton Lonaratha Jnr (Island Sun)
- Broadcaster of the Year- Elizabeth Osifelo (Tavuli News)
- Production Award – Cheryl Bera (SIBC)
- Technology Award – Tavuli News – Solomon Islands
- Editor of the Year Award – Mavis Nishimura Podokolo (Island Sun)
- Organisation of the Year Award – Tavuli News – Solomon Islands
Special Recognition Awards are
- Sunday Isles
- In-depth Solomons
- SIBC
MASI Congratulates all the award winners of the Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI) Media Excellency Awards 2024!
“Your dedication and outstanding contributions to journalism are truly commendable.
Your work not only informs but also inspires and shapes our community” MASI expressed.
