Myroslava Barchuk became the winner of the Georgy Gongadze Prize 2021.

Myroslava is a journalist and TV presenter who worked for Channel 5, TVi, Espresso, and was the editor of Welcome to Ukraine magazine. And now he hosts a socio-political talk show, "Countdown," on the UA: Pershiy TV channel.

In her speech, she pointed out the crucial role of independent and professional journalists:

"There are things that we [journalists — ed.] have no right and should never put up with them: it is dishonor, lies, humiliation, and shame. We must not put up with this for money, or fame, or for being in the frame. Because our position invisibly creates in millions of viewers and listeners a sense of their right to have their position, dignity, and truth."

Apart from Myroslava Barchuk, this year's finalists were Marichka Paplauskaite (The Ukrainians) and Borys Davydenko (LIGA.net).

The award ceremony took place on May 21, Georgy Gongadze's birthday. The winner was announced by Maksym Dyadyk, one of the 18 Patrons of the Award and a graduate of Presidents' MBA kmbs. He explained why, together with other managers, he supports the award:

"We [patrons — ed.] share responsibility not only to our own families and businesses but also to society and the nation. We all want to see Ukraine as a liberal, democratic country, not a wreck of an archaic empire. I believe that there is no nation without common meanings, and meanings are created not only by philosophers and politicians but also by journalists. Therefore, the Georgy Gongadze Prize should promote the development of journalism, and journalism should promote the development of our state."

Photo: Valentyna Naumenko