Feature Writing (over 25,000 circulation)

Winner: Nicole O’Reilly, Hamilton Spectator

Nicole O’Reilly chronicles how the decisions of two paramedics who arrived to help a young man shot in the street ultimately cost him his life. This riveting tale relies on details from several court cases and firsthand reporting to recreate the last moments of Yosif Al-Hasnawi’s life. In so doing, it also explores the unprecedented issue of paramedics convicted for failing to provide the necessaries of life. O’Reilly expertly weaves these issues together, relying on the human tale to inform the public of the larger issues at play.

Runner-up: Sebastian Bron, Hamilton Spectator

Sebastian Bron’s well-written story about a man who experienced homelessness joining the funeral industry is unexpected, well written and insightful. It illustrates a human aspect of the COVID-19 pandemic few considered in the wake of so many devastating tales. His use of details and anecdotes bring the story to life.

Runner-up: Katrina Clarke, Hamilton Spectator

Katrina Clarke’s series on a racism scandal at the Hamilton-Wentworth School Board illustrates the lack of accountability and transparency that too often exist within democratically elected systems. She exposed this issue despite significant roadblocks to her reporting and ultimately managed to effect change that addressed systemic racism and led to sanctions against two school trustees.

 

Return to full list of winners.