Fiji celebrated a significant milestone in journalism at the recent Fiji Achievement in Media Excellence Awards (FAME Awards), a ceremony held at the Novotel in Lami. Renowned media editor and general secretary of the Fiji Media Association, Stanley Simpson, proclaimed the event a victory for freedom, reflecting on the struggles faced by journalists in the country over the past years.
Simpson made it abundantly clear that the significance of the evening was deeply personal for those in attendance. “In a battle of wills against a brutal regime, that took a lot out of many of us, tonight feels like freedom has won!” he declared, as he reminisced about the challenges the media has faced since the last vibrant FAME Awards in 2008.
He recounted the dark days when the Fijian media faced rigorous censorship, with emergency regulations aimed at suppressing dissent and controlling narratives. Simpson described that period as a tumultuous time, filled with fear and uncertainty, where journalists had to navigate dangerous waters while fulfilling their duty to provide truthful accounts. “We questioned ourselves, we wondered what we were still doing in this persecuted industry,” he shared, highlighting the resilience and tenacity of journalists who did not yield to oppression.
Throughout these challenges, Fiji’s journalists reported on coups, constitutional crises, and community struggles, weaving narratives of both despair and hope. “We told stories of grief, injustice, and hardship, but we also told stories of resilience, hope, victories, and national pride,” Simpson noted. The work produced during these years was not only a testament to the strength of journalism in Fiji but also a beacon of hope that shone through even in the darkest times.
He recognized pivotal moments in Fiji’s journey, including natural disasters and significant national events. Journalists were often the first on the scene during Cyclone Winston in 2016, chronicling the devastation and history as it unfolded. They managed to report diligently on election counts amidst tense environments and celebrated local achievements, like the Drua’s entry into Super Rugby, ensuring that these moments resonated with audiences nationwide.
As the media landscape evolved, Fiji’s journalists demonstrated remarkable agility and innovation, adapting to digital changes and expanding their reach. Simpson emphasized that when the nation called for fresh perspectives, the media answered with bold and impactful content that contributed to regional discourse.
The FAME Awards served not only as a celebration of past achievements but also as a reaffirmation of the media’s vital role in shaping the narrative of Fiji’s future through courage and resilience. As journalists continue to bravely tell the stories of their communities, the future of Fiji’s media looks promising, embodying a spirit of perseverance and hope.
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