by Nisha Paul

• Human rights attorney Jacqueline McKenzie will deliver keynote address
• 99 entries across 20 categories have been submitted and sent to judges for tabulation
• Press Freedom Award will honour late Grenadian journalist Leslie Pierre

Human rights attorney Jacqueline McKenzie will deliver the keynote address at the 14th Annual Media Awards, bringing an international perspective on press freedom and advocacy to Grenada. McKenzie, a solicitor in England and Wales with degrees in law, human rights, and international relations, is internationally recognised for her advocacy on behalf of the Windrush generation and was named among the Top 10 Most Influential Black Britons in the Powerlist 2022.

MWAG President Calistra Farrier praised McKenzie as the “perfect fit” for the keynote address at the event, which will be held under the theme Press Freedom and Responsibility in a Time of Consequence. “With all of the major events happening globally, Ms McKenzie’s global reach adds value to the Media Awards this year and expands MWAG’s outreach,” Farrier remarked.

She noted that media practitioners are working in an era shaped by democratic strain, climate instability, rapid technological change, and the spread of disinformation. In that environment, she said, “press freedom is not symbolic — it is essential.” “This theme allows the Media Awards to honour journalism that serves the public interest under complex and often pressured circumstances, and to affirm the role of a free press as essential to democratic resilience, social stability, and sustainable development.”

Since the MWAG event began in 2011, trophy designs have varied. The 2025 awards will mark a first for the association, which has adopted a custom-designed trophy selected from 3 submissions received through an open call issued by the executive. “This initiative,” Farrier said, “is aimed at establishing a legacy for the Media Awards, and this trophy will serve the association going forward as its flagship design associated with the Media Awards,” establishing a consistent symbol tied to excellence in Grenadian journalism.

A total of 99 entries across 20 categories have been submitted and sent to judges for tabulation. This year, 2 new categories will be unveiled, reflecting shifts in how news is produced and consumed. The President’s Youth Award is among the categories supported by the Ministry of Information and Ariza Credit Union. It recognises a journalist aged 25 and under. In keeping with this year’s theme, MWAG will also introduce a Press Freedom Award honouring the late Grenadian journalist Leslie Pierre, whose steadfast advocacy continues to inspire the profession.

Farrier said the recognition of Leslie Pierre, who died in December 2014, is long overdue. “He (the late Leslie Pierre) played a pivotal role in training dozens of media professionals, giving them a strong foundation in journalism even before formal training. Through his guidance on ethics and fundamentals, journalists were able to leave the Grenadian Voice better than they came. We must also acknowledge that he stood on the front lines for press freedom, willing to face any consequences in defence of all journalists. Throughout history, he has demonstrated remarkable strength and fortitude in protecting press freedom — the most essential element of what we do.”

She added that the Impact Song of the Year Award, supported by the Spicemas Corporation (SMC), will “recognise music as a powerful form of mass communication and social influence.”

The Annual Media Awards, traditionally held at the Grenada Trade Centre Annex will be held at Pier 57 this year with anticipation building across the local media fraternity as the countdown continues.

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