Northwestern University in Qatar is set to host the 12th Annual Media and Research Awards on April 9, 2025, continuing its tradition of recognizing the outstanding creativity and scholarship of its students.
Now in its 12th year, the event celebrates exceptional student works across nine categories: Creative writing, documentary, interactive media and animation, journalistic writing, journalistic visual storytelling, narrative fiction, research and analysis, sound, and strategic communication. These categories highlight the broad spectrum of work created by students.
“The Media and Research Awards is more than a celebration—it is a platform that showcases exceptional student work, provides exposure and networking opportunities for current students, and inspires them to continuously elevate the quality of their academic and creative projects,” said Marwan M. Kraidy, dean and CEO of Northwestern Qatar.
“The Media and Research Awards is more than a celebration—it is a platform that showcases exceptional student work, provides exposure and networking opportunities for current students, and inspires them to continuously elevate the quality of their academic and creative projects.”
This year, the MRA received a total of 124 submissions, with 37 nominees shortlisted across the nine categories. Winners will be selected by an external jury after a thorough review by a committee of faculty and staff, including Associate Professors Eddy Borges Rey and Marc Owen Jones, Assistant Professor Nattaporn Luangpipat, Library Director Iman Magdy Khamis, Career Services Manager Ahmad Alony Hamed, Associate Research Administrator Assel Adilova. In addition to reviewing submissions, this committee also serves as the organizing team, alongside Assistant Dean for the Student Experience Alex Schultes.
In addition to the awards ceremony, industry professionals from notable organizations such as Al Kass TV, Resolution Films, Katara Studios, Ogilvy, and others will attend the event, offering students valuable networking opportunities and exposure to potential career pathways. These connections are instrumental in enhancing students' professional prospects and expanding their industry networks.
Past winners of the MRA have addressed a range of important global issues, including migration, social justice, and the power of creative storytelling through film, journalism, and digital media. The awards highlight the impact of Northwestern Qatar’s academic and creative training, emphasizing the importance of using media to address critical social issues and contribute to meaningful global conversations.
