The Asian Media Awards this year served as a poignant reminder of the immense power of storytelling to bridge communities and celebrate diverse voices.
As a past winner for Asian Women & Cars: The Road to Independence in 2019 and a finalist for Mother Tongues from Farther Lands in 2017 and Jambo Cinema in 2022, I was deeply honoured to be invited to speak at the shortlisting announcement in September in London.
It was an incredible opportunity to reflect on my journey and share insights into the creative process behind Jambo Cinema—my flagship installation that celebrates untold South Asian stories of first- and second-generation immigrants from 1980s and 1990s Britain.
For those unfamiliar, Jambo Cinema is a heartfelt project that shines a spotlight on the vibrant, yet often overlooked, cultural hubs of South Asian communities during this era. Local cinemas were more than just places to watch films; they were communal spaces where people gathered, connected, and shared stories.
Through this installation, I’ve sought to preserve and celebrate those precious memories, reminding us of the rich legacy left by our elders.
Similarly, Asian Women & Cars: The Road to Independence was born out of a desire to tell the inspiring stories of South Asian women who challenged cultural norms and found freedom behind the wheel.
This project not only highlighted their personal journeys but also captured the broader shifts in independence and agency among Asian women in the UK. Both works have been deeply personal, rooted in my passion for uncovering and amplifying underrepresented voices.
At the shortlisting announcement, I congratulated the finalists and shared the importance of believing in your vision, even when others may not immediately see its value.
I reflected on the realities of self-funding and launching projects like Jambo Cinema—an experience that taught me the importance of resilience, consistency, and self-belief. The truth is, the hard work often happens when no one is looking. It’s tough, it’s lonely, and it’s far from glamorous.
But the rewards come when you finally reach the summit, and suddenly, the world begins to notice.
I also emphasised the importance of persistence: when others fail to understand your ideas, find ways to bring them to life regardless. Let your actions, rather than words, show what you are capable of achieving. This journey has been about creating spaces where South Asian stories can thrive and connect with wider audiences, proving that every story, no matter how niche, has the power to resonate.
The awards night itself, were held at the Hilton Hotel in Deansgate in October
It was a joy to witness Sangita Myska being recognized as Media Personality of the Year and to see Dr. Shani Dhanda honored for her incredible work as a disability activist championing inclusivity.
Harvi Virdi’s award for her services to television, film, and theatre was another highlight, as was the deeply moving recognition of Sophiya Haque’s contributions to the arts.
One of the most inspiring moments of the evening was meeting Ayshea Brough, whose career spans over six decades. Ayshea, who won the Outstanding Contribution to Media award for 2024, was a true trailblazer, and listening to her story was both humbling and uplifting. Her journey is a testament to the resilience and dedication it takes to leave a lasting legacy in the media industry.
These moments reaffirm why amplifying diverse voices in media is so vital.
Representation matters—not just for those creating the work, but for the audiences who finally see themselves reflected in meaningful ways. It was a privilege to celebrate these achievements and to be reminded of the power of storytelling to connect us all.
