Award: Youth Journalism Excellence
Award Description: This award would recognize a young reporter who has maintained journalism integrity and ethics to report a story that has strong value and impact on society.
Biographies of Nominees
Christel Charles
Christel Charles is a Business Management graduate with a minor in Marketing and a passion for media and storytelling. As an Information Cadet at the Agency for Public Information, she plays a vital role in producing news stories and human-interest features that highlight government initiatives and community achievements across St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Her ability to connect with people and bring their stories to life reflects her natural talent for communication and journalism.
With experience in customer service, leadership, and digital media, Christel combines professionalism with creativity to inspire others through her work. Beyond her role at the API, she uses her social media platforms to engage audiences and promote positive narratives.
Dezmorel Hackshaw
Dezmorel Hackshaw is an emerging voice in tourism and digital storytelling. A graduate of the National Kaohsiung University of Hospitality and Tourism with a Bachelor’s Degree in International Tourism Management and Business Administration, she currently serves as a Content Creator at the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority. Her work showcases the beauty, culture, and resilience of her country through engaging media productions and event coverage.
From hosting tourism campaigns and airline inaugurations to documenting national events like the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Trophy Tour and Tourism Awards, Dezmorel’s creativity and professionalism continue to shine. Passionate about promoting her homeland and inspiring others, she embodies excellence in youth media and tourism communication.
Ari Shaw
Ari A. Shaw is a Communications Specialist from St. Vincent and the Grenadines with over nine years of experience in journalism, media, and public relations. A dynamic and creative professional, he has developed a strong reputation for excellence in both traditional and digital media, brand storytelling, and event management. Ari holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, Media, and Culture from National ChengChi University in Taiwan and a Diploma in Social Sciences from the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College.
He currently serves as a Communications Officer for the Volcanic Eruption Emergency Project (VEEP), where he develops and implements strategic communication initiatives to strengthen stakeholder engagement and community awareness. Ari also works as a Communications Consultant with the Unleashing the Blue Economy of the Caribbean (UBEC) project, advising on brand positioning, social media strategy, and content creation.
His experience spans multiple roles, including Radio Announcer at WEFM Broadcasting, Editor and Content Creator at IKTV/Boom 106.9, and Public Relations Officer at Massy Stores (SVG) Ltd. He has written for several regional publications, including Searchlight Newspaper, Asberth News Network, and The San Pedro Sun (Belize), and has successfully managed PR campaigns such as the 2022 Miss SVG Pageant contestant, Shannon John.
Ari is also the Founder and Director of Flvcko Events, Taiwan’s first Caribbean cultural festival, Culture Uma Fest, which celebrates Caribbean identity through art, music, and cuisine. His fluency in English and conversational proficiency in Mandarin and Spanish reflect his adaptability in multicultural settings.
Passionate about youth empowerment and community development, Ari volunteers with the Liberty Lodge Boys Training Centre and serves on the SubOptic Foundation Youth Advisory Board. He continues to use his voice and expertise to bridge cultures, amplify Caribbean stories, and inspire meaningful social change.
