By Bunmi Yekini
Three journalists have been celebrated for their impactful storytelling and innovation at the inaugural Fatima TV Youth Media Awards during the REMAPSEN Media Forum in Dakar, Senegal. The awards, focusing on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), recognized exceptional work that reshapes public narratives and drives systemic change.
Cameroon’s Boris-Kaloff Batata clinched the top honour for his audio documentary, Sexual Abuse in the World of Disability, a compelling exploration of the unique challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. The commendation prizes went to Uche Odiri from Nigeria, for her investigative article Breaking the Cycle: How Economic Hardship Threatens Maternal and Child Health in Lagos, and Akame Toke Bennet of Cameroon for her documentary on gender and education in Eastern Cameroon’s Muslim community.
Speaking at the ceremony, Professor Myriam Sidibe, Founder of BoaM, hailed the journalists for their courage and creativity. “The Fatima TV Youth Media Awards are a celebration of the immense talent and creativity of young Africans. These storytellers are courageously addressing critical issues and reshaping public discourse around SRHR, gender equality, and social justice. Their work reflects the power of youth-driven innovation in challenging stigmas and driving systemic change,” she said.
The awards also introduced attendees to Fatima, a pre-teen virtual influencer developed by BoaM as a social brand. Fatima represents African girls’ experiences and aims to address SRHR, gender equity, and environmental issues in relatable ways.
Angella Summer Namubiru, BoaM’s Goodwill Ambassador and one of the judges praised the entries: “These awards celebrate creativity, passion, and the incredible talent that inspires positive change. Each entry reflects a unique story and a dedication to making a difference, reminding us why recognising such efforts is so important.”
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The judging panel featured notable names like Folly Bah of Al Jazeera English and Dorcas Muga-Odumbe, a Kenyan journalist and gender equality advocate. Launched under BoaM’s African Voices Project in September, the awards underscore the power of youth-driven media in addressing Africa’s critical issues.