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February 08, 2026 – Scotland –
A former reporter with The Shetland Times has been recognised as one of Scotland’s most promising journalistic talents after achieving significant success at the Highlands and Islands Press Ball and Media Awards. The journalist was named a rising star of the profession after winning four awards at the annual ceremony, which celebrates excellence in regional and local journalism across Scotland.
The Highlands and Islands Press Ball and Media Awards are regarded as a key event for recognising high-quality reporting, photography, and storytelling from newspapers and media outlets serving communities across the north and islands. Judges assess entries across a wide range of categories, including news reporting, features, investigations and specialist journalism, with competition described by organisers as consistently strong.
According to reports from local media, the former Shetland Times journalist impressed judges with a body of work that demonstrated both technical skill and editorial judgment. The awards panel highlighted the reporter’s ability to cover complex stories clearly while maintaining a strong connection to local communities. Judges also pointed to the consistency of the work submitted, noting that it reflected a high standard across multiple genres rather than a single standout piece.
During their time at The Shetland Times, the journalist covered a broad range of subjects affecting island life, from local government and community issues to wider social and economic developments. This experience was cited as an important foundation for the work that earned recognition at the awards, with judges praising the reporter’s understanding of local context and attention to detail.
The journalist has since moved on from the Shetland-based newspaper, but organisers said the awards reflect not only past achievements but also future potential. Industry figures attending the ceremony described the multiple wins as a clear signal of a career on an upward trajectory within Scottish journalism.
The Highlands and Islands Press Ball and Media Awards are judged by panels made up of experienced media professionals from across the region. Winners are announced at an annual event attended by journalists, editors, and industry representatives. Organisers said this year’s awards once again demonstrated the strength and importance of regional journalism in Scotland, particularly in telling stories that might otherwise go unheard.
The recognition of the former Shetland Times reporter as a rising star adds to a growing list of journalists from regional newsrooms gaining national attention for their work.
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