The Fiji Achievement in Media Excellence Awards night, known as FAME, was celebrated on Saturday at the Novotel in Lami, aiming to honor journalists for their remarkable contributions to the field. Stanley Simpson, the General Secretary of the Fiji Media Association, reflected on the significance of the event, noting that it had been 17 years since the last full FAME Awards took place.
Simpson organized the evening and emphasized the historical challenges faced by the media in Fiji, recalling the struggles experienced during a tumultuous period marked by restrictive emergency regulations and censorship. He acknowledged the emotional toll on journalists, stating there were times when fear overshadowed their duties, leading them to question their commitment to reporting under dire circumstances.
Despite the adversities, Simpson commended his colleagues for their resilience, highlighting that they continued to seek the truth amid danger. He pointed out that Fijian journalists have reported on significant national events, such as coups and constitutional crises, while also sharing stories of hope and community resilience.
“This is a night of resurrection,” he proclaimed, marking a new era for journalism in Fiji as they reaffirm their commitment to journalistic ethics, integrity, and accuracy. He encouraged younger journalists to cherish the freedoms they now possess, which were hard-won by their predecessors.
Simpson’s words resonated throughout the gathering, as he reminded the audience of their past struggles and the necessity of maintaining their hard-fought freedoms in an evolving media landscape. The evening served as a moment of reflection and celebration, honoring the undeterred spirit of Fijian journalism and its continued commitment to truth and accountability.
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