Notre Dame University-Louaize (NDU) alumnus and journalist Karim Kawkab (BA’21) in Communication Arts received the Best Television Documentary award at the Golden Femi Film Festival in Sofia, Bulgaria. Competing against entries from over 130 countries, Karim’s documentary, Around Ukraine, which covers the ongoing war in Ukraine, secured the win—reinforcing the presence of Arab journalism on the international stage.
Produced by the UAE's
Al Aan TV, the documentary chronicles the experiences of Ukrainians living in conflict zones and on the front lines, shedding light on daily life amidst the devastation. It highlights their relentless efforts to rebuild under the constant threat of Russian bombings, capturing their resilience, determination, and hope despite dire circumstances.
Reflecting on his experience, Karim expressed his deep joy at receiving the award and emphasized the critical need to document the stories of Ukrainians, showcasing their courage in the face of adversity. In his words, the world’s current reality—dominated by wars and conflicts—demands that we vividly portray the painful experiences of marginalized individuals. With conflicts in the region continuously escalating, Karim dedicated the award to every person forced to live in the shadow of war, hoping his work will contribute to raising global awareness of their suffering.
This achievement is not just a personal victory for Karim; it reflects his commitment to truth and storytelling. It also aligns with NDU’s core mission as a champion of press freedom and journalistic integrity. The university celebrates his success, recognizing it as a testament to the ability of Arab media to compete globally and produce high-quality, impactful journalism. This milestone marks a positive turning point for Arab journalism, encouraging the creation of more documentary films that highlight humanitarian issues in conflict zones worldwide.
In light of this remarkable achievement, NDU extends its heartfelt congratulations to Karim. Dedicated to promoting journalistic integrity, press freedom, and the pursuit of truth, the university takes immense pride in its alumnus’ dedication to amplifying marginalized voices. As an institution that values the power of storytelling, NDU remains committed to supporting its students and alumni in their mission to shed light on pressing humanitarian issues.