AN ASPIRING young reporter from Stratford is well on the way to achieving her dream of becoming a journalist after being shortlisted for a top award from Amnesty International.
Imogen Horton, who attends Stratford Girls’ Grammar School, is in the running for the ‘Upper Secondary Reporter’ category of Amnesty International’s Youth Awards – a national competition encouraging young people to voice their views on human rights topics.
The 16 year-old wrote an article about the recent terrorism in France entitled “Charlie Hebdo, the Attack Continues…”.
Imogen said: “I decided to focus on the Charlie Hebdo attack as not only was it a very shocking news story and a horrendous violation of human rights, but it brought further complications such as publications restricting what they publish in fear of the consequences.
“Many people don’t realise the full extent of the repercussions; how it has not only taken lives, but also caused media organisations to not exercise their right to the freedom of expression.
“I feel very privileged to be shortlisted for the Amnesty Youth Awards. I love writing and researching deeper into current affairs. Journalism allows me to do both. It’s lovely to be recognised for doing something I enjoy.”
Over 1,300 young people entered Amnesty’s annual Youth Awards. The awards attracted entries from all four corners of the UK with only the top ten from each category – reporting, photography, song, fundraising or campaigning – making the shortlist.
Imogen’s work will be judged by a prestigious panel including Sir Trevor McDonald.
The top three finalists of the competition will be announced later this month.