Abu Dhabi’s emergence as a pivotal media nexus was prominently showcased during the inaugural Global South Video News Awards, a cornerstone event of the Bridge Summit. Organized by Viory, a UAE-based video news agency, the ceremony served as a transformative platform for journalists who are fundamentally reshaping international perceptions of the Global South.
The gathering attracted major media institutions from Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East, signaling a paradigm shift in how the global industry regards this increasingly influential media sector. The event balanced celebratory recognition with profound purpose, highlighted by opening remarks from media personality Mai Maxwell and an impactful address from Alex Kobia, Viory’s African Distribution Lead.
Kobia’s declaration that “The Global South is not emerging – it has arrived” resonated throughout the summit, emphasizing the critical importance of verified, ground-level visual journalism. He detailed Viory’s extensive network of over 3,000 video journalists worldwide committed to bringing clarity and human depth to underrepresented stories.
The awards gained substantial credibility through a distinguished judging panel comprising senior media representatives from Clarín (Argentina), Hindustan Times (India), Korean Broadcasting System (South Korea), TeleSUR (Venezuela), and the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation.
Recipients of the inaugural honors included Maximiliano Jonas (Best Camerawork), Enrique Ortiz (Most Creative Shot), Masoud Al Jarousha (Exclusive Lens), and Ernest Dela Aglanu (Vital Footage Award). Their work was celebrated for its courageous impact and ability to capture defining moments that strengthen global storytelling.
The ceremony also featured poignant reflections from UAE youth representative Shahd Alabdouli, who shared insights from her humanitarian work in conflict zones, reminding attendees of the human experiences behind every journalistic piece and the responsibility to preserve truth.
Viory concluded the event by reaffirming its commitment to supporting journalist communities and ensuring essential Global South stories receive deserved visibility. This initiative aligns with the UAE’s strategic investments in media innovation and its positioning as a bridge between global markets, marking a significant step toward more authentic and inclusive global narratives.