These are the nominees for the Free Press Awards 2025

Category: Newcomer of the Year

Almigdad Hassan Mohamed Ali (Sudan)

Almigdad Ali is one of the very few Sudanese journalists who remained in Khartoum when war broke out in 2023. Working almost entirely with his iPhone, he delivered raw frontline reporting from bombed buildings and active combat zones, becoming a crucial source for different Arab media outlets. His images helped make an otherwise invisible war visible to millions.

“When God gives you a talent that pushes you to speak for those who are unheard, you carry a responsibility. Journalism allows me to amplify human stories, approach people with humility, and pursue truth with honesty, courage, and deep respect for lived experience.”

Thomas Mukhwana Dishon (Kenya)

Thomas Dishon emerged as a leading young fact-checker at Africa Uncensored, gaining national attention for debunking political disinformation during Kenya’s 2022 elections. Through innovative short-form video journalism on TikTok, X and Instagram, he made complex information accessible to millions. He later published investigations into corruption and public spending, including reporting that sparked debate about presidential travel expenses.

“I am a journalist because I believe in the power of the truth. That journalism, when done well, has the potential to change lives and solve problems. It is this belief that motivates me to cover hostile protests, ask hard questions during interviews, write fact-checks or investigate corruption.”

Abdulwaheed Sofiullahi (Nigeria)

Abdulwaheed Sofiullahi is an independent Nigerian journalist known for empathetic, deeply reported stories from some of the country’s most underreported regions. His work exposes the human impact of conflict, displacement, failing healthcare systems and insecurity in rural areas. His investigations have appeared in outlets such as New Lines Magazine and HumAngle, placing marginalised communities at the centre of public debate.

“I chose to become a journalist not merely to unravel facts, but to shed light on overlooked issues and weave fragmented truths into meaningful stories. Through words, I hope to illuminate the complexities of reality and empower the public to make judgments through understanding.”

Category: Most Resilient Journalist

Ulviyya Guliyeva (Azerbaijan) - Investigative journalist

Ulviyya Guliyeva has spent more than a decade reporting on repression, political trials and civil liberties in Azerbaijan. After media accreditations were withdrawn, she continued working as the country’s last independent journalist through her own channels. She has published more than 500 reports and produced multiple documentaries on systemic human rights violations.

“I have been a journalist for ten years, continuing this mission from prison for the past nine months. I am now certain that serving humanity is more vital than physical freedom. If isolated prisoners still ask me to amplify their voices, even considering stopping my journalism would be an injustice to them.”

Current situation: Detained since May 2025, Ulviyya continues to write from prison despite medical risks, abuse and censorship, documenting abuses within the prison system itself.

Christina Assi (Lebanon)

Christina Assi’s visual storytelling has long documented the impact of conflict on civilians. She is an award‑winning photojournalist who was severely injured in 2023 during a targeted attack on journalists at the Lebanese‑Israeli border, losing her right leg. Her case has become emblematic of the fight against impunity for crimes against journalists.

“What started as passion has turned into something much more profound after being targeted for simply holding a camera. I will continue to do my work and advocate for journalists' safety out of defiance in the face of impunity.”

Current situation: Christina is a leading advocate for journalist safety and accountability, while preparing to return behind the camera. She’s a powerful symbol of resilience and professional integrity.

These nominees embody the courage and resilience that independent journalism demands and why press freedom must be defended worldwide.

Winners announced at Free Press Live on February 3rd

The winners of the Free Press Awards 2025 will be announced during Free Press Live on 3 February at Nieuwspoort, The Hague.

Free Press Live brings together journalists, policymakers, civil society and the public for an evening of dialogue, solidarity and press‑freedom advocacy. A full programme will be shared ahead of the event.

Registration is still open. You can sign up and find more information about the programme via the registration page.