Global South Video News Awards Highlight Importance Of Visual Journalism At BRIDGE Summit In Abu Dhabi
Viory, a video news agency focused on the Global South, launched its first Global South Video News Awards at the BRIDGE Summit in Abu Dhabi. This event, part of the world's largest debut media conference, honoured video journalists who effectively highlight regional stories. The awards ceremony attracted a diverse group of broadcasters, journalists, and industry leaders from across the Global South.
UAE partners supporting the awards included Emirates News Agency (WAM), TRENDS Research & Advisory, Abu Dhabi University, and University of Sharjah. International media partners were also present, such as the African Union of Broadcasting and Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development. The leadership of the UAE Association of Journalists attended as well.
Alex Kobia, African Distribution Lead at Viory, opened the ceremony with a keynote speech. He stated, "Today, the Global South is not emerging - it has arrived. Its stories deserve to be told with accuracy, depth and integrity. Verified visual journalism is essential in an age shaped by rapid change and misinformation, and Viory is proud to support more than 3,000 journalists who bring clarity and on-the-ground truth to audiences around the world."
Shahd Alabdouli, a content creator and UAE youth representative, shared insights from her humanitarian work in Al-Arish, Syria and Rafah. She emphasised how visual journalism preserves dignity and amplifies unheard voices while reminding audiences that humanity is central to every story.
The judging panel consisted of over 20 senior professionals from major international media organisations within the Global South. These included representatives from Clarín (Argentina), Hindustan Times (India), Korean Broadcasting System, TeleSUR (Venezuela), and Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation. Many judges attended the ceremony.
Four individuals received recognition for their outstanding contributions to visual storytelling: Maxi Jonas won Best Camerawork; Enrique Ortiz was awarded Most Creative Shot; Masoud Al Jarousha received Exclusive Lens; Ernest Dela Aglanu earned the Vital Footage Award.
Commitment to Credible Reporting
The event concluded with Viory reaffirming its commitment to supporting credible reporting. They aim to strengthen journalist communities and ensure that important stories from the region gain deserved visibility.
With inputs from WAM
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