Media professionals and content creators in Qatar recently participated in an introductory workshop that highlighted the criteria and standards for the Rawda Award for Excellence in Social Work – Media Category.
The seminar brought together representatives from local newspapers and media outlets alongside content creators, offering participants a closer look at how impactful media initiatives can contribute to social development.
The workshop was opened by Abdulaziz Ibrahim al-Ishaq, the chairman of the Rawda Award for Excellence in Social Work, affiliated with the Ministry of Social Development and Family.
He welcomed the participants and stressed that projects submitted for the award should demonstrate genuine social relevance and extend beyond an organisation’s core business.
He cited initiatives that raise awareness among school students about environmental conservation and sustainability, particularly when such projects produce measurable, scalable changes in behaviour.
The seminar was led by Mohammed al-Muhannadi of the award’s executive team, who explained the eligibility requirements and judging criteria for the Media Category.
He highlighted projects that develop effective social solutions, strengthen social protection and contribute to Qatar’s broader social development objectives, and underlined the importance of empowering civil society organisations and enhancing their role in creating lasting social impact.
According to al-Muhannadi, eligible media initiatives should produce professional and responsible content that promotes social work, national values and awareness across society in Qatar.
Projects are also expected to demonstrate creativity, innovation, measurable impact and sustainability, while aligning with the National Strategy 2024-30 and national societal values.
He stressed that eligible projects should follow a clear cycle of planning, implementation, KPIs (key performance indicators), measurement and improvement, supported by structured data collection and analysis.
The workshop also provided practical guidance on the application process, evaluation standards and methods of measuring sustainable social impact.
Key criteria include the effectiveness of media content in encouraging positive social change, inclusiveness, alignment with national priorities, and the use of innovative formats to highlight community and humanitarian initiatives.
The Rawda Award, officially announced by the Ministry of Social Development and Family in December 2025, is Qatar’s first national award dedicated to recognising individuals, families, institutions, and other contributors to innovative and sustainable social initiatives.
The award comprises five categories: individuals, families, non-profit organisations, the private sector, and media, with total annual prizes of QR2.7mn.
