Media representatives gathered at the South Seas Club in Lautoka over the weekend to celebrate their achievements and contributions over the past year. This event underscored the crucial role that the media plays in conveying significant developments across Fiji, particularly within a region identified as a vital economic hub.
During the gathering, Fiji Media Association’s general secretary, Stanley Simpson, addressed the attendees and acknowledged the unique challenges faced by journalists in this territory. He emphasized the importance of their contributions, remarking, “I know we think it’s a small number, but I find that it’s very important that the media, together with the opportunity arises, because of the range of, the extent and the breadth of the roles that we play and the work that we do throughout the year.”
Despite occasional feelings of isolation among journalists based in the West, Simpson reaffirmed their critical role in providing a comprehensive view of current events in Fiji. The event served as a much-needed break from the increasingly stressful routines journalists face, offering a chance for networking, camaraderie, and lighter moments.
Simpson also encouraged journalists to foster a sense of cooperation while engaging in healthy professional rivalry, stating, “I think I know that you’re a close-knit unit here in the West, we work together. I think it’s also important that you compete strongly with each other, so that we can keep getting the best stories out of each other.”
This celebration highlighted the resilience and commitment of media professionals in the region, reminding participants of their essential role in society. It not only marked a celebration of their work but also provided an opportunity to recharge and reconnect, as they look forward to the challenges and opportunities that the coming year will bring. Through their dedication, journalists in Fiji continue to play a pivotal part in shaping public discourse and ensuring that vital stories are told.