Viraj Asher has received the prestigious Young Journalist Award at the Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF), bringing laurels to the NRI community residing in this wonderful place. He has shined through a weeklong training programme under Gulf News tabloid, reporting on various aspects of the festival.
Viraj Asher and seven other students participated in one of the most challenging hands-on training programmes in the region to help budding reporters kick-start their careers. The group was given unmatched insights into the competitive and exciting world of journalism, covering press conferences, Red Carpet Galas, panel sessions and more throughout the 13th Dubai International Film Festival.
Abdulhamid Juma, Chairman, DIFF, commented on the award,“Every year, the Festival aims to fulfill its commitment to support the evolution of the regional film industry and all the disciplines that contribute to it, whether acting, animation or journalism. Our partnership with Gulf News tabloid provides exceptional support to young writers with an interest in entertainment, and they are given an invaluable opportunity to gain first-hand industry experience. I would like to congratulate Viraj Asher, and thank all of the shortlisted young journalists for their full efforts as part of the Festival this year.”
Viraj is currently pursuing his Bachelor of Arts in Media and Communications at the Dubai Campus of Manipal University. He is an excellent cricketer and even represented United Arab Emirates in the 'Under-16 Asia Cup’. Besides, he is also an avid badminton player.