Monika Gul, Sarbraj Singh Kahlon, and Rhea Santos have been recognized as finalists for the prestigious 2026 Jack Webster Awards, which celebrate the most compelling and impactful journalistic stories produced by Rogers Sports & Media’s CityNews and OMNI newsrooms throughout the year. This recognition is a testament to the hard-hitting journalism and the dedicated efforts of these individuals in their respective fields.
In the category of Excellence in Multilingual Journalism, Sarbraj Kahlon from OMNI News received a nomination for his insightful coverage surrounding the fears of extortion that were affecting Vancouver builders. This reporting unveiled the way these concerns prompted significant policy changes at City Hall. Kahlon worked collaboratively with fellow journalists Allan Chek, Kristen Johnson, and Sonia Kalra, highlighting the power of teamwork in journalism to expose critical issues that impact the community.
Rhea Santos was nominated in the category of Excellence in Feature Reporting – TV/Video for her exceptional work on a CityNews Connect special. This piece followed the healing journey of those affected by the Lapu-Lapu Day tragedy. Santos’s reporting stood out due to the sensitivity and depth with which it addressed the aftermath of the tragic event, showcasing her ability to tell powerful human stories. She collaborated on this project with Carol McGrath and Kristen Johnson, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that is essential in impactful journalism.
In another notable category, Monika Gul was named a finalist for Best News Reporting of the Year – TV/Video for her comprehensive coverage of the Tumbler Ridge shooting and its subsequent effects on the community. Gul’s reporting was recognized for its depth and the way it engaged with the broader implications of the tragic event. She worked alongside colleagues Allan Chek, Rob Abel, and Cal Wood to deliver a detailed account of the incident and its ramifications, underscoring the vital role of journalism in society.
The winners of this year's Jack Webster Awards will be announced at a ceremony scheduled for November 2 at the Hyatt Regency Vancouver. This event marks the 40th anniversary of the Webster Awards, which have a long-standing tradition of honoring the best journalism practices in British Columbia each year. The awards serve as a platform to recognize excellence in journalism, shining a light on those who strive to inform, challenge, and advocate for the community through their work.
These nominations from Rogers Sports & Media highlight not only the individual accomplishments of Gul, Kahlon, and Santos but also the collective effort of the newsrooms that foster such talent. Their stories resonate deeply with audiences, demonstrating the importance of journalistic integrity and the impact of well-researched reporting in shaping public discourse and understanding. As the industry continues to evolve, the contributions of these finalists showcase the enduring value of quality journalism in addressing the pressing issues facing society today.
