Media practitioner, Gift Mona says his latest achievement serves as a reminder about the importance and power of representation.
Mona, originally from White River and currently based in Beijing and works for a global television network, China Global Television Network (CGTN). He is over the moon after scooping the Outstanding Achievement in Media Award at the Pride of Africa Asia Pacific Awards this week.
He says he felt overwhelmed with joy when his name was announced for the category he was nominated in. “That moment made me realize that all the hard work and efforts I’ve put into my work were definitely worth it. The first thing I wanted to do was to tell my mom that I’ve won the award. It really was an indescribable yet beautiful moment.”
Mona who is in the media division and is also a television host at CGTN, believes the award will inspire other young people. It will change the negative narrative about Africa and its people in a positive and progressive manner.
“Let us continue to break barriers. It is evident that one should never give up on their dreams and go beyond reaching for the stars. The universe is always watching and will eventually align you in the path of your dreams,” he says.
He vows to continue advocating for black and African representation and excellence in media and his field of work.
His gratitude goes to his mother and siblings who he described as his pillars, everyone who voted for him and to the judges for selecting him as the winner.
“Thank you to the friends and the community and family in Beijing that has been supportive to me especially because we are far away from home. May God’s blessings shower over you all in abundance. I thank you.”
