In a heartwarming ceremony, UNICEF India Ambassador Ayushmann Khurrana recently presided over the Radio Child Awards, an event that recognised and celebrated the invaluable efforts of 22 radio professionals from various corners of the country.
These professionals, hailing from All India Radio, private FM stations, and community radio networks, were acknowledged for their exceptional work in raising awareness on crucial issues such as routine immunisation, climate change, and child protection.
What was the event about?
The event, now in its fifth edition, underscored the profound impact that radio professionals can have in shaping public discourse and fostering positive change, particularly concerning the well-being and rights of children. Ayushmann Khurrana, known for his advocacy work and commitment to social causes, emphasised the importance of their role in amplifying the voices of vulnerable communities, especially children, through the powerful medium of radio.
Ayushmann Shares Personal Stories
During the ceremony, Ayushmann Khurrana shared personal anecdotes from his journey as a radio jockey, underscoring his deep-seated passion for child rights advocacy. He highlighted the pivotal role that radio professionals play as storytellers, educators, and catalysts for change, stressing that their work transcends mere entertainment and serves as a vital conduit for disseminating critical information and fostering social awareness.
The Radio4Child Awards 2024 received an overwhelming response, with a total of 165 entries submitted by 59 radio professionals spanning 20 states across India. The diversity and breadth of submissions reflected a collective commitment to leveraging the reach and influence of radio to address pressing issues affecting children and communities nationwide.
Partnership with UNICEF
Zafrin Chowdhury, Chief of Communications, Advocacy, and Partnerships at UNICEF India, commended the Radio4Child partnership for its instrumental role in advancing the cause of child rights and welfare. She underscored the enduring significance of radio as a trusted source of information and entertainment, particularly in regions where access to other forms of media may be limited.
The awards ceremony also featured a panel of distinguished judges, comprising former radio professionals, representatives from civil society organisations, and UNICEF NGO partners. Their meticulous evaluation of the entries based on criteria such as innovation, emotion, and messaging ensured that the most impactful initiatives were duly recognised and celebrated.
In addition to the awards ceremony, the event included a comprehensive capacity development workshop, where over 60 radio professionals engaged in discussions and activities focused on inclusive early childhood development, climate change, and child protection. The workshop served as a platform for knowledge exchange and skill-building, empowering participants to enhance the effectiveness and relevance of their radio programming.
On a separate note, Ayushmann Khurrana's recent cinematic endeavours have garnered widespread acclaim, with his performance in "Dream Girl 2" receiving particular praise from audiences and critics alike. Amidst his busy schedule, the actor remains committed to using his platform to advocate for social causes and lend his support to initiatives aimed at empowering marginalised communities.
Khurrana's Future Projects
Looking ahead, Ayushmann Khurrana is poised to embark on new cinematic ventures, including a highly anticipated biopic chronicling the life and achievements of Indian cricket legend Sourav Ganguly. His involvement in such projects underscores his unwavering dedication to portraying diverse narratives and bringing socially relevant stories to the forefront of mainstream cinema.
As UNICEF India commemorates its 75th anniversary, the Radio4 Child Awards stand as a testament to the enduring partnership between radio professionals and the organisation in championing the rights and well-being of children across the country. Through their collective efforts, they continue to inspire positive change and pave the way for a brighter future for generations to come.
