Beyond the Fame: What Makes a Journalist of the Year?

In an industry where some voices are heard every morning, familiar faces appear on television screens, and certain journalists command large audiences, it is easy to associate visibility with excellence. But when the conversation turns to who deserves to be called Journalist of the Year, an important question emerges: what exactly are we measuring?

Is it the number of people who listen to a journalist? The popularity of their programme? Their ability to hold conversations, interview public figures and command attention in the studio? Or should the recognition go beyond these visible achievements?

Journalism is more than being behind a microphone or in front of a camera. It is a profession built on the responsibility to inform, investigate, question, verify and hold power accountable. While broadcasting provides an important platform for these responsibilities, occupying that platform does not automatically establish professional excellence.

A journalist’s contribution should be reflected in the quality of their work. Accuracy, originality, depth of research, fairness, ethical conduct and public impact are essential considerations. The ability to uncover stories that would otherwise remain untold, challenge misinformation, question institutional failures and give attention to overlooked communities is equally significant.

This does not diminish the work of broadcasters. A presenter who consistently asks difficult questions, challenges public officials, investigates public concerns and promotes meaningful discussions is making a valuable journalistic contribution. In fact, some of the most consequential journalism takes place through radio and television programmes.

However, popularity should not become the ultimate measure of professional achievement. A journalist may have an impressive audience and considerable public influence, but the more important question is what that influence achieves. Does it improve public understanding? Does it encourage accountability? Does it bring important issues to light? Does it provide information that people can trust?

There are also journalists whose work rarely attracts public applause. They spend time in communities, pursue difficult investigations, verify information and report stories that may never generate trending conversations. Their contributions may be less visible, but their work remains essential to the profession.

Ultimately, being Journalist of the Year should not simply be about who is the most recognised personality in the media. It should be about who demonstrates an exceptional commitment to the principles and responsibilities of journalism.

Perhaps the better question is not who speaks to the largest audience, but who uses their platform, skills and professional responsibility to make the greatest contribution to society.

Because journalism should not be measured merely by how many people hear your voice, but by the value of what that voice brings to the public.

Source: Benedicta Yaa Ohenewaa Asamoah