Photographer Monique Harmer
UQ Journalism student Niddal Abdelrahman has picked up the coveted Jacoby-Walkley Scholarship at the mid-year Walkley Awards.
Niddal said she was honoured to win such a prestigious scholarship, and she was looking forward to heading to Sydney to complete the scholarship.
“I’m excited and nervous at the same time,” Niddal said.
“This feels like the opportunity of a lifetime, and I can’t wait to get started.”
“I’d like to thank the judges, the Jacoby family, and the journalism team at UQ for all their support,” she said.
The Jacoby-Walkley Scholarship judges said they were blown away by Niddal’s talent.
“She is smart, curious, analytical and thoughtful, with a keen eye on journalism's key principles and future challenges,” the judges said.
“She is also a gifted writer and shows great promise as a potential presenter. We're delighted to give her this kickstart and look forward to seeing her thrive in the profession," they said.
UQ Journalism Senior Lecturer Dr Richard Murray said he was not surprised Niddal won the scholarship.
Photographer Monique Harmer
“Niddal is a dedicated and talented young journalist who will continue to distinguish herself in journalism,” Dr Murray said.
“The Bachelor of Journalism degree at UQ is designed to develop and support forward thinking ethical journalists into the best careers.”
“Niddal reports stories from the heart. If she is the future of journalism, then we are in good hands,” he said.
The Jacoby-Walkley Scholarship is in its thirteenth year, and as part of the scholarship, Niddal will spend ten weeks in Sydney working at Nine’s flagship news television programs including 60 Minutes, A Current Affair, and Today.
