Mother-of-two nominated for Muslim Writers Awards

Earlier this month OBV published a story about the Journalism Diversity Fund offering bursaries to aspiring journalists.

In these challenging times where the media can control the agenda and shape perceptions, editors realise it is important that journalists reporting the news reflect the communities they serve and deliver unbiased and accurate reporting.

And with a number of opportunities available to pursue a career as a reporter, there shouldn't be any excuses not to go for your dreams.

Just ask Tasnim Nazeer, a young mother who has been nominated for the Young Journalist award in this year's Muslim Writers Awards. The 25-year-old mother-of-two from South Harrow has written a number of articles as a freelance journalist for business publications on a range of subjects including how France's decision to ban the burkha will increase Islamaphobia.

Tasnim is one of four people nominated in her category and will find out if she has won in November. And she is testament to the fact that it is possible to find a perfect work-life balance. Tasnim is also encouraging others to take up journalism which she believes is a powerful tool.

Tasnim said,

“Often you can get people from the Muslim community, and generally the Asian community, saying you should become a doctor or go into some kind of professional career, but my husband has always encouraged me."

She added,

“Journalism is such a powerful tool. It gives a voice to people that may not usually be heard. This is the first time I have got any kind of recognition but it’s been worth it and I would encourage people from the community to go for it.”

The Muslim Writers Awards take place in London in November.

To find out more about bursaries on offer from the Journalism Diversity Fund, click here

Picture: Tasnim Nazeer