-with GPA’s lifetime achievement

-by Nakasia Logan

Six media professionals were conferred with lifetime achievement awards from the Guyana Press Association. Radio Supervisor here at the National Communications Network, Roderick Baird, was among the six honoured at the GPA’s Press Freedom reception on Monday evening.

Baird, who has been behind the scenes dedicating 36 years to the field of media, was recognised for his long-standing and dedicated professional service to audio engineering, mentorship and commitment within the industry. 

“First, I want to thank God for waking me up every morning, giving me the health and strength to be able to do the work that I truly love. I want to thank the Guyana Press Association for this lifetime award, for recognising my hard work and dedication throughout the years. Also thank the management of the then GBC, where the job first started in 1990, and the current management of NCN, where I’m currently employed,” he said.

Also receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award were Bert Wilkinson, Miranda La Rose, Claude David, Leon Horatio and Samantha Alleyn Williams. Speaking on the occasion, former Stabroek News Editor-in-chief, Anand Persaud, underscored the importance of press freedom and the responsibility of journalists, particularly in a technology-driven world.

“It is the sacred responsibility of reporters to ensure that they don’t become willing accomplices to artificial intelligence in the pursuit of stories that can only be told through the use of human resources and rigorous investigative work,” he emphasised.

This year’s observance was held under the theme, ‘Shaping a Future at Peace, Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development and Security’. The event forms part of activities marking World Press Freedom Day, observed annually on May 3, and serves as a reminder of the importance of a free, independent and pluralistic press in any democratic society.