Educating, nurturing, and championing young journalists is what Ulster University does, and they have reinforced their belief in the next generation by throwing their weight behind the Chartered Institute of Public Relations Northern Ireland Media Awards to shine a light on the future stars of the industry.
This award ceremony, returning after a seven-year break, is scheduled for 15th March, at the Metropolitan Arts Centre (MAC) in Belfast.
The CIPR NI Media Awards, organised in association with Ulster Bank Northern Ireland, will recognise and honour outstanding journalists, presenters, and media outlets across 21 diverse categories. Ulster University's School of Communication and Media, with its strong commitment to nurturing the next generation of journalists, is taking a leading role in sponsoring the Student Journalist of the Year Award, showcasing its dedication to recognising and supporting emerging talent in the field.
Leona O'Neill, Lecturer in Journalism at the Coleraine Campus of Ulster University, expressed her excitement about the collaboration:
"The CIPR NI Media Awards are a pivotal platform for acknowledging excellence in journalism. As a sponsor of the Student Journalist of the Year Award, Ulster University's School of Communication and Media is honoured to contribute to the recognition of promising young journalists who demonstrate dedication, skill, and passion in their craft. This sponsorship aligns with our commitment to fostering a vibrant and dynamic media landscape and shaping the future of journalism."
Andrew McAnallen, CIPR NI Committee Member, emphasised the vital role of professional journalism in today's society:
“The Northern Ireland Media Awards have traditionally been an opportunity for PR professionals to shine a light on local journalistic excellence, acknowledging their dedication to delivering carefully researched, expertly reported, and accurate news. CIPR Northern Ireland, 'in partnership with our headline sponsor Ulster Bank, is delighted to have Ulster University sponsor this award, which recognises and celebrated the important role that students play in our media and journalism industry in Northern Ireland.”
The CIPR NI Media Awards will feature 21 categories, including Media Outlet of the Year, Newcomer of the Year, Journalist of the Year, and Piece of Journalism of the Year. The CIPR committee will release more information about the entry process and judges in the coming weeks.