Beyond the Trophy: The Real Value of the DAME Awards
Media is in a state of constant transition. The way it was produced and consumed in the ’90s is vastly different from what we see today. But one thing has remained constant: the need for original reporting, ethical journalism, and impactful stories. There is always a demand for authentic voices, and this is where DAME comes in. Established in 1992, DAME is a non-profit trust and annual awards scheme designed to reward excellent performance and encourage media responsibility. Hosted by Diamond Publications, founded by one of Nigeria’s veteran journalists, it stands today as Africa’s longest-running and most consistent media awards program.
For 35 years, DAME has survived without compromising its standards. A DAME nomination alone carries an undeniable and undisputed level of prestige.
The 35th award ceremony will be held in November, and as always, DAME has opened its doors for entries covering a wide range of categories, from reporting and commentary to documentary, drama, visual design, and corporate communications. Submitting your work to this platform is like participating in a deeply respected tradition.
Entries are scrutinized by veterans across journalism, broadcasting, and advertising, meaning a certain level of quality is expected. But this isn’t to say you should be scared; if anything, you should be excited. A thrill should come from knowing that your work will pass through the hands of seasoned professionals and could still be chosen. The validation of being accepted and recognized by these industry giants is the ultimate proof of editorial excellence and skillful storytelling. It tells a writer that their craft holds up among the very best.
This isn’t just a gentle nudge. I believe that winning, or even being nominated, gives a massive boost to even a seasoned professional’s portfolio. Imagine, then, the trajectory it could set for a beginner. The DAME awards serve as a definitive metric of success that can be leveraged for promotions, fellowships, international grants, and senior editorial roles.
Its core mission is to uphold ethical journalism and push back against misinformation, meaning high-quality, truthful work is deeply valued. Authentic and raw voices are encouraged, but they must be grounded in facts. As the famous journalistic adage goes, “Comment is free, but facts are sacred.” Whatever you submit is expected to have gone through rigorous cross-checking. In an industry as vital as ours, celebrating the best work raises the bar for everyone. It encourages creators to prioritize deep research, cultural impact, and storytelling over simple clickbait.
Entries are open now and will close on September 19, 2026. Only works published between January 1 and December 31, 2025, will be considered. You can find more information on the DAME website. You should apply.
Zheenat Makanjuola