The Impartial Reporter has once again earned national recognition, with three prestigious nominations in the Society of Editors’ Media Freedom Awards 2024.

Journalist Victoria Johnston has been nominated for Young Journalist of the Year, highlighting her dedication to public interest reporting. Tanya Fowles, known for her investigative work, has been shortlisted for Regional Journalist of the Year, a testament to her unwavering commitment to holding power to account.

Additionally, The Impartial Reporter itself has been nominated for Regional Newspaper of the Year, cementing its reputation as one of the leading voices in regional journalism in Northern Ireland.

The Media Freedom Awards celebrate excellence in public interest and campaigning journalism across the UK, shining a spotlight on the critical role the news media plays in promoting transparency and media freedom.

Sponsored by Allwyn and Vodafone, the awards feature 23 categories and will bring together over 250 journalists from across the industry.

The winners will be announced during a high-profile reception and ceremony at the iconic Underglobe in London on Tuesday, November 12, with ITV News journalist Lucrezia Millarini set to host the evening.

Dawn Alford, Executive Director of the Society of Editors, praised the high calibre of entries, stating: “Once again we have been astounded by the exceptional standard of entries for this year’s Media Freedom Awards and the tenacity, intelligence, and bravery of our colleagues.”

Rodney Edwards, Editor of The Impartial Reporter, expressed immense pride in his team following the announcement of the nominations.

“We are absolutely thrilled that Victoria and Tanya have been recognised for their outstanding work, and that The Impartial Reporter itself has been shortlisted for Regional Newspaper of the Year,” he said.

“These nominations are a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion our entire team brings to journalism every day. It’s an honour to be part of a newsroom that strives to hold power to account and champion the public’s right to know. We’re all incredibly proud to see our efforts acknowledged on such a national stage.”