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JC reporter scoops top media award
Imogen Garfinkel scored the top marks in the country for the NCTJ diploma in journalism
April 7, 2025 21:47
Imogen Garfinkel scored the top marks in the country for the NCTJ diploma in journalism
April 7, 2025 21:47Jewish Chronicle reporter Imogen Garfinkel has scooped a prestigious award for journalism after being named Student of the Year.
Imogen, 24, scored the highest mark out of over 1,200 students taking the NCTJ diploma in journalism between 2023 and 2024.
After receiving her prize from Sky News’ Alex Crawford at the NCTJ Awards for Excellence in Manchester, Imogen said: “I was totally caught off guard when my name was called out. Before winning, I thought there was no way that I would have scored the highest out of 1,239 students in the country. It turns out hard work really does pay off.”
Studying for her diploma at PA Media Academy, the Cambridge graduate got A grades in seven out of eight modules, including in media law, magazine journalism and journalism for a digital audience.
At the same time, she was working at east London news and culture magazine called The Slice Tower Hamlets.
Having worked at the JC since last September, Imogen said: “The honour has made me feel really motivated about my career. I can’t wait to get my hands on the next scoop and see where the future takes me. I feel more inspired than ever to write.”
She hopes to become a cultural feature writer in the future.
JC editor Daniel Schwammenthal said: “We couldn’t be prouder of Imogen for receiving this richly deserved recognition. She was named student of the year, and since joining the JC, she has quickly become an indispensable member of the newsroom.
“Her relentless pursuit of the truth, rigorous reporting, and unwavering integrity exemplify the very best of journalism. We are lucky to have her on the team.”
Alex Crawford said she was “truly inspired by the talent, dedication and passion” of winners and runners-up. “These students, trainees and apprentices represent the future of journalism, and if today’s shortlisted entrants are anything to go by, journalism is in very safe hands.”
Joanne Forbes, chief executive of the NCTJ, said afterwards: “These awards showcase the best of emerging journalistic talent. It is inspiring to see how these journalists are upholding the highest standards to tell important stories across a variety of different platforms.
“We received a record number of entries this year, and the judges praised the exceptional standard of work, so everyone who made the shortlist should be tremendously proud of this achievement.”