Emma Conaghan has won this year's Hugh Cudlipp Student Award for her documentary on male eating disorders and exercise addiction. The award, hosted by the London Press Club and sponsored by the Daily Mirror, recognises students who have made an outstanding contribution with an article or video exploring an issue of public interest.
Winning Film Exposes Healthcare Blind Spot
Conaghan's film uncovered a blind spot in British healthcare, made more difficult to cover because of shame, stereotyping and domineering gym-bro culture. The entry featured a wide range of interviewees, leading to original, engaging and emotional interviews.
Mirror Editor-in-Chief Chloe Hubbard presented the award and said: "It was a pleasure to meet all the deserving winners of the Cudlipp Awards who are all at the beginning of their adventure into journalism."
Other Honoured Entries
Tilly Harris was highly commended for her investigation into the reality facing children on TikTok. Rashmi Varma was commended for drawing the link between Southall's soaring diabetes rates and the prevalence of sweet shops and dessert bars on the high street. Jada Sara Naidu was also honoured for her documentary on modern Black Britain, asking questions about the Windrush generation and where they feel at home.
Hubbard added: "The standard of the entries speaks to how competitive the industry is for young journalists now, with so many traditional routes becoming closed-off. It is harder than ever to get a foot on the ladder and I sincerely hope this recognition of their talents piques the interest of a wily news editor somewhere."
Event Highlights and Keynote Speakers
The event included a keynote speech by The Sun's Victoria Newton and a talk from Vernon Kay, highlighting the importance of journalism. Dozens of entries were received for the annual awards, which celebrate young journalism and remember the impact of the late Hugh Cudlipp, the Mirror's legendary Editorial Director.
