Mangaluru: Newskarnataka.com celebrated the third year of its growing popularity as a news portal that reflects Karnataka, at a grand get together of its staff here today.
On the occasion, Naveen Menezes, staff correspondent, was conferred with the ‘best story’ award for his story ‘Like Munna Bhai MBBS, Kanachur Institute fakes a hospital, fools Medical Council of India’. He received a cash award and a book on journalism penned by TJS George as a gift from Brian Fernandes, Associate Editor cum Operations Manager.
Speaking after receiving the award, Naveen, said he is grateful to Newskarnataka for recognizing his efforts, and promised to strive to raise awareness of its brand through topical and in depth newsworthy stories in future too.
Other stories nominated for the award were ‘The ruins of a long lost kingdom of glory: Barkur‘ by Sheeja Moodubelle, and ‘Quenching on Ice: Heaven or Hazard?’ by Sandhya Soans , Alfi D’Cruz and Wilson Pereira
Sharada, a long standing member of the staff, was conferred with the ‘employee of the year award’ for her teamwork and contribution during the year. She received a cash prize and a book as her award from Canute Kelarai, COO (Middle East), Spearhead Media Pvt. Ltd.
Speaking after giving away the award, Canute said that it is important that the website gives due importance to covering all the important news from across the country and especially the Gulf, as Newskarnataka’s readership was growing in the gulf.
Uniquely, both the awardees were selected by their peers based on an evaluation of their efforts on predetermined criteria.
Earlier, Divya Cutinha welcomed the gathering and Sandhya Soans reviewed the year gone by. Brian Fernandes added value to the discussions with his insights and suggestions for the way forward. He especially commended the team spirit and camaraderie among the team.
Prakash L, CEO, Spearhead media Pvt. Ltd addressed the gathering on the future plans of the company and Nelson Kulshekar, COO (Marketing) shared his thoughts on the growing market share of the news portal.
All the staff spoke briefly and were very appreciative of the work culture, the organization, and the management for their vision, dedication and support. Wilson Pereira emceed the meeting effectively while Nelson Kulshekar delivered the vote of thanks.
The Meeting concluded with a sumptuous lunch.
