MBN wins three Telly Awards

May 24, 2024

Washington, D.C. — The Middle East Broadcasting Network, Inc. (MBN) was awarded three Telly awards for its digital reporting. Alhurra.com and ElSaha were recognized for their work on social issues and public awareness on May 21st.

Alhurra.com’s “Labaki’s Victim’s Speak Out” won silver in the category of Online-Social Issues. The report focused on the formerly revered Lebanese priest Mansour Labaki, known in the community for his charitable work and the building of an orphanage. Decades later, he was found guilty in absentia of sexually abusing 50 children. Two of the victims spoke to Alhurra.com about the shame and guilt they felt as children.

Another Alhurra.com report highlighted AI’s development over the years and how it has evolved. It also sheds light on the dangers of deepfake and how AI is being used to spread misleading and false news around the world. “Digital Twins” won bronze in the Online-Public Interest and Awareness category.

ElSaha’s “Similar, but Different-Being Transgender” profiles Salem, who was born female but always knew he was a male. He talked to ElSaha about the difficulties of being transgender in Egypt, including the expense of surgery, societal acceptance and even government documents that still identify him as a woman. He discusses the resilience needed to live authentically while facing these difficult challenges. This report won bronze for Online-Social Impact.

“I am amazed at the quality of journalism and storytelling at MBN. It evokes compassion and provides a better understanding of complex issues in the region and around the world. It is heartening to see this work also recognized by international competitions,” stated MBN Acting President/CEO Dr. Jeffrey Gedmin. MBN manages and oversees Alhurra Digital and ElSaha.

The Telly Awards, a globally recognized accolade, honors excellence in video and television across all screens. With over 12,000 entries from six continents, Telly Award winners represent work from some of the most respected advertising agencies, television stations, production companies, and publishers worldwide.

About MBN

MBN is non-profit corporate media outlet financed by the U.S. government through a grant from U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM), an independent federal agency. The USAGM serves as a firewall to protect the professional independence and integrity of the broadcasters.