After a 17-year hiatus, the Fiji Awards for Media Excellence made a triumphant return last night, reinvigorating the local media landscape. Rosi Doviverata, the Acting Publisher of Fiji Sun and President of the Fiji Media Association, addressed the audience, emphasizing that despite the lengthy break, journalists in Fiji never ceased their commitment to serving the nation.
Doviverata articulated that the revival of the awards symbolizes much more than mere celebration; it represents a “return of confidence, pride, and excellence” for media professionals throughout the country. Reflecting on the journey of Fiji’s media industry from 2007 to 2025, she asserted that “we did not break, we got better.”
She acknowledged the significant accomplishments of major media organizations, praising their resilience in the face of political, financial, and operational challenges. Doviverata particularly commended the FBC for transforming sports broadcasting into a national spectacle, recognized the Fiji Times for its unwavering commitment to independent journalism, and noted Fiji Television’s pioneering legacy despite facing commercial hurdles.
In her remarks, she highlighted the rapid technological advancements of outlets like Fiji Live and Fiji Village, as well as the growth of the Print newspaper Fiji Sun, underscoring how these developments have influenced the media landscape.
Doviverata, a champion for women in media, celebrated the increasing presence of female leadership within Fiji’s newsrooms, stating that women are no longer mere underdogs but are now “leading the world.” She reflected on the success of the inaugural Women in Media Fiji national conference held earlier this year, expressing hope and empowerment for young female journalists.
“To every young female journalist in the room, don’t wait for permission. You belong here. You can lead here. And your voice is needed here,” she encouraged, urging budding journalists to strive for greater depth in their reporting.
In closing, Doviverata reinforced the media’s vital role in society, reminding attendees that journalism is not merely a profession, but rather a “public trust and a calling,” encouraging journalists to pursue deeper investigations, strengthen accountability, and engage in more meaningful storytelling. The return of these awards marks a pivotal moment for the media sector, inspiring confidence and ambition among those dedicated to the craft.