Viory Launches Global South Video News Awards for Journalism

Viory, the video news agency of the Global South, has announced the inaugural Global South Video News Awards, offering a prize of 12,000 AED in each of the four categories. The awards recognize video journalists whose work is redefining how stories from the Global South are seen and understood across the world.

The awards are free to enter and are now accepting submissions through November 30, 2025, with winners to be announced at the BRIDGE Media Summit in Abu Dhabi on December 9, 2025.

Any video journalist working on stories filmed in or linked to the Global South can apply, provided the footage was published between December 1, 2024 and December 1, 2025. The awards aim to amplify Global South perspectives and celebrate the journalists whose footage has brought untold stories or overlooked narratives to light.

Award Categories:

> Vital Footage Award - The premier category recognizing footage without which important stories could not have been fully told, giving voice to perspectives that change perception

> Best Camerawork - Honours exceptional technical precision fused with artistic mastery in composition, framing, light, shadow, colour, and atmosphere

> Exclusive Lens - Celebrates unique footage that captured key moments or perspectives essential to covering major stories

> Most Creative Shot - Rewards bold, innovative production techniques that make stories more impactful and immersive

A jury of respected editors and media professionals from across the Global South will select twelve nominees - three per category - to be announced by December 5, 2025. All nominees will be invited to attend the awards ceremony at the Bridge Media Summit in Abu Dhabi, where the four winners will be announced on stage.

“The Global South Video News Awards celebrate journalism that matters. Work that doesn't just tell stories but makes audiences live them.” Said Zulayho Siddikova, General Manager of Viory. “They recognize the technical excellence and vital storytelling that pioneering journalists are doing across the world today to bring the narratives of the Global South to life.”

Viory is collaborating with a network of leading partners for the inaugural edition of the Global South Video News Awards, including the BRIDGE Summit, Emirates News Agency, TRENDS Research and Advisory, the University of Sharjah, the African Union of Broadcasting, AIBD, Union of OIC News Agencies, and O.I.C States Broadcasting Union. Their collective support strengthens the awards and reinforces the shared commitment to elevating Global South storytelling.