For Moses Apiah, describing himself as a rural journalist is less about professional identity and more about a personal reminder of his responsibility to amplify voices often absent from mainstream development conversations.

Classfm Upper East Regional reporter says his approach to journalism has been shaped by a commitment to telling the stories of people whose experiences could easily be overlooked.

Reflecting on his Journalist of the Year 2025 award on A1 Radio, Mr Apiah said the title “rural journalist” reminds him of the responsibility that comes with working in communities where residents often struggle to have their concerns heard.

“Often, I called myself a rural journalist not for the beauty of it, but as an amplifier to remind myself of the role I ought to, and should, play in uplifting the voice of the voiceless in society.”

He said his journalism career has also benefited from guidance from experienced journalists, including Albert Sore of JoyNews, Williams Jalulah of The Fourth Estate, and Edward Adeti of Media Without Borders.

According to him, one of the most important lessons he learnt from his mentors was the need to ensure that people's lived experiences are not lost in official accounts of development.

He said this philosophy has influenced his reporting on health, child protection, conflict, sexual and reproductive health and other social issues affecting communities across the Upper East Region.

Mr Apiah said the award has therefore not only brought recognition but also strengthened his resolve to continue pursuing journalism that gives visibility to neglected communities.

The 5th Upper East GJA Awards were supported by MyTurn Constructions Limited and Lesken Enterprise Limited as headline sponsors, with Kacstones Records and Paga Youth Movement as main sponsors. Other supporters included WaterAid Ghana, ActionAid Ghana, NorthLite Solar Limited and Alaffia/BBI.