The One World Media Awards 2026 finalists have been announced, with winners to be revealed on 17 June in London. Sahil Saxena of the National Film and Television School is shortlisted for the Student Award with In the Name of Mother, a film probing faith and dogmatism in contemporary India.
After weeks of careful deliberation, sixty judges from more than 20 countries have narrowed down the longlist of the One World Media Awards 2026 to three finalists in each of the 14 categories. Every entry was judged on its overall excellence, relevance, substance, and impact, with the standard this year described as exceptional. The winners will be announced on 17 June at the Ham Yard Theatre in Soho, London, in what promises to be a landmark evening for the international media community.
The Awards, which celebrate media that informs, educates, and inspires, have long been recognised as a benchmark for journalistic and creative excellence. This year’s finalists represent a wide spectrum of voices and perspectives, each tackling pressing issues with originality and depth. From investigative journalism to documentary filmmaking, the breadth of entries reflects the evolving landscape of global media and the enduring power of storytelling to illuminate truth.
Among the finalists in the Student Award category is Sahil Saxena of the National Film and Television School, whose film In the Name of Mother has drawn significant attention. Running 28 minutes and 18 seconds, the film follows Shiva, the leader of a cow protection team in Haryana, who vows to save cows at all costs. As Shiva’s journey unfolds, the narrative probes the uncompromising dogmatism that emerges, raising urgent questions about the price of faith in India today. By situating its story in a nation divided by belief and politics, the film offers a powerful lens on contemporary tensions and the human cost of ideological rigidity.
Saxena’s nomination highlights the importance of student voices in shaping the future of media. The Student Award has historically been a platform for emerging talent, and In the Name of Mother exemplifies the courage and creativity that the category seeks to honour. Its inclusion among the finalists underscores the Awards’ commitment to recognising work that not only demonstrates technical and narrative excellence but also engages with complex social realities.
The One World Media Awards have consistently championed stories that transcend borders, amplifying underrepresented voices and fostering dialogue across cultures. This year’s finalists continue that tradition, offering narratives that challenge assumptions and inspire reflection. For the nominees, the recognition is both a celebration of their achievements and an encouragement to continue pushing boundaries. For audiences, the Awards reaffirm the value of stories that matter — stories that resonate far beyond their immediate context.
As anticipation builds for the ceremony in June, the announcement of the finalists serves as a reminder of the role media plays in shaping public understanding and sparking change. The Awards not only honour excellence but also highlight the responsibility of storytellers to engage with the world in meaningful ways.
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