The Fiji Achievement in Media Excellence (FAME) Awards 2025 is set to occur on November 6 at the Novotel Lami Convention & Entertainment Centre, marking a pivotal moment in Fiji’s media landscape. This year’s event carries additional weight as it commemorates the 19th anniversary of censorship imposed on local newsrooms, transforming the ceremony into a powerful celebration of resilience and the fight for press freedom in the region.
Shane Hussein, Chairman of the FAME Awards, shared his enthusiasm for the event, highlighting that 121 entries have been submitted across 25 categories. This high level of participation showcases the competitive spirit surrounding the awards, which are poised to become one of the most esteemed in Fiji’s history. Hussein noted the collaborative efforts of the Fijian Media Association and the Fiji Media Council in organizing the awards, stating, “Our journalists and newsrooms have submitted strong entries, and the judges will have a delightfully difficult task shortlisting finalists and selecting winners.”
Among the highly contested categories are Best Feature Article (Print), Best Commentary or Opinion, Best Coverage of iTaukei Affairs, Best Sports Journalism, Scoop of the Year, Best Photography, Young Journalist of the Year, and Best Coverage of a Major News Event. As the judging process progresses, finalists will be announced soon, with all shortlisted nominees receiving complimentary invitations and digital finalist badges for the awards night.
Moreover, Hussein confirmed that a few sponsorship tables remain available, inviting businesses and supporters of the media to participate in this significant event. A noteworthy aspect of the FAME Awards will be the induction of five individuals into the revival of the Fiji Media Hall of Fame, acknowledging their lifelong contributions to journalism in Fiji, a testament to the lasting impact of dedicated media professionals.
The FAME Awards symbolize a vital opportunity for the industry, reflecting a hopeful direction toward enhanced media freedom and recognition of journalistic excellence in Fiji. As excitement builds within the media community, the event is poised to strengthen the bonds among journalists while celebrating the indispensable role of a free press in society. This initiative not only honors past accomplishments but also motivates a new generation of media professionals dedicated to upholding the tenets of ethical journalism and press freedom.