Journalism student wins prestigious Canadian award

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Maya Miterani has won the JJ Richards Scholarship from the Radio-Television Digital News Foundation (RTDNF) for the best radio documentary or podcast.

Miterani’s entry, “Have dating apps killed organic love?”, was produced during her final semester in the Journalism-Multimedia program.

The podcast is based on her friend getting back into the dating world. Miterani asked about her friend’s plan, expecting to hear about meeting someone at a coffee shop, speed dating, or even being set up on a blind date. However, her friend’s answer – dating apps – surprised her. Miterani decided to look at how dating apps have become a new norm in society and how they’ve brought changes to it and to those who use them. 

“I entered the industry with the goal of sharing stories and having the power to amplify voices that otherwise would not be heard, and so this win further motivates me and fuels my passion to shape the journalism industry into its changing future,” said Miterani.

Each year, the RTDNF awards scholarships to aspiring journalists and Miterani’s prize is valued at $2,000.

“Thank you to all Canadian journalism students who entered their work. More than 100 submissions were received and impressed the judges with the depth and range of news coverage and creative storytelling. Journalism matters and the future looks bright,” said Gina Lorentz, RTDNF president and Journalism-Multimedia coordinator at Fanshawe. 

The RTDNF promotes excellence in journalism through its student scholarship program. Founded in 1978, the foundation advances, encourages and enhances the study and production of broadcast and digital journalism. It offers support, guidance and financial assistance to emerging journalists as they build their careers in multiplatform storytelling.