The Fiji Achievement in Media Excellence (FAME) Awards 2025 will take place on the 6th of next month at the Novotel Lami Convention & Entertainment Centre, making this event especially significant for Fiji’s media community. This year marks the 19th anniversary of the imposition of censorship on local newsrooms, transforming the awards into a celebration of resilience and the ongoing struggle for press freedom.
Shane Hussein, Chairman of the FAME Awards, announced that preparations are in full swing, with an impressive 121 entries submitted for 25 categories, making this edition one of the most competitive in its history. “The Fijian Media Association and Fiji Media Council have put in considerable effort to make the FAME Awards one of the most significant events on our national calendar. Our journalists have demonstrated their talent through strong submissions, and our judges face an excitingly challenging task ahead,” Hussein remarked.
The competition is particularly fierce in categories such as Best Feature Article (Print), Best Commentary or Opinion, Best Coverage of iTaukei Affairs, Best Sports Journalism, and Scoop of the Year. The judging process is currently underway, with finalists expected to be announced soon. All nominees will receive official invitations to the gala event, alongside digital finalist badges to celebrate their achievements.
In a noteworthy addition this year, the overall Journalist of the Year will be chosen from the winners of three specific categories: Radio Journalist of the Year, Print Journalist of the Year, and TV Journalist of the Year. There are still sponsorship opportunities available for businesses and media supporters interested in contributing.
Furthermore, the ceremony will revive the Fiji Media Hall of Fame, honoring five individuals for their lifetime contributions to journalism within the country. The return of the FAME Awards is indicative of a positive change toward greater media freedom and acknowledgment of journalistic excellence, fostering optimism for the future of Fiji’s media landscape.
This event not only presents an opportunity to honor journalists’ achievements but also emphasizes the vital role of press freedom and responsible reporting in a democratic society. It represents a pivotal moment for Fiji’s media industry, showcasing the tenacity of its journalists and their dedication to keeping the public informed.