NTV’s James Smart and Patience Nyange, the Executive Director of the Association of Media Women in Kenya (AMWIK) have been selected for the Cardiff University 30(ish)Awards 2023.
The prestigious awards recognize Cardiff University’s alumni under 30 years or in their 30’s who have shown dedication towards initiating change and driving innovation in their respective countries.
Consequently, Nyange and Smart will represent Kenya in the awards scheduled for October 5 in Cardiff City, Wales.
Joining them for the awards is a host of other awardees from across the world who have equally demonstrated commitment towards driving change in their communities.
Taking to her social media account, Nyange expressed her delight in the awards noting that she was humbled by the fete.
“It is indeed the Lord’s doing and I am truly humbled,” Nyange posted.
How Smart and Nyange Made to the Awards
Both Smart and Nyange are alumni of Cardiff University. To make it to the awards, one has to be nominated by other Cardiff University alumni or nominate their own name for consideration.
Smart, known for his role at NTV, attended the Wales-based institution between 2014 and 2016.
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He graduated with a master’s in international journalism and electoral Behavior before returning to Kenya to pursue his career.
As per the information from the Awards organizer, Smart has stood out as a leader in journalism in both television and new media.
Further, the 30(ish) described Smart as an accomplished journalist who has focused his skills on making journalism meaningful and impactful.
Among Smart’s productions highlighted in the description include his crime podcast series named ‘Case Number Zero’ that investigated the disappearance of a former journalist in Kenya.
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The podcast, according to 30 (ish) Awards, went on to garner over one million listeners.
Also listed are his role as the host of NTV’s show, The Trend, his recently produced ‘Paradise Lost’, telling the story of a former TV personality and his struggles, and ‘A country of gamblers’, which looks at unethical gambling in Kenya.
Nyange’s Role as Women’s Rights Advocate
On her part, Nyange- a beneficiary of the prestigious Chevening Scholarships, was recognized for her efforts in mainstreaming women’s rights in Africa.
According to the awards, Nyange has been a leader in advocating gender sensitive reporting throughout her 18 years’ experience in the communications field.
Besides her role as the Director of AMWIK, the Chevening Alumni is the founder of the #KenyaWomenSeries, a platform that highlights inspiring profiles of Kenyan women and their impact on the world.
“Her persistent passion and voice for human rights, women’s rights and youth empowerment has made her a renowned brand both locally and internationally,” the Awards describes Nyange.