When Radio Tarana Managing Director Robert Khan heard his name announced as the Winner for Outstanding Contribution to Radio at the Annual Radio New Zealand Awards last fortnight, he thought he was dreaming.
He was not.
The Awards Ceremony, held on May 20, 2016 at the Auckland War Memorial Museum recognised him for ‘his exceptional contribution to Radio in New Zealand.’
There are no finalists for the Award and hence the winner has no clue.
Galaxy of broadcasters
Mr Khan was the first ethnic broadcaster to earn this honour. He joined the ranks of many other veteran broadcasters including Sir Paul Holmes, Leighton Smith, Murray Deaker, Kim Hill, Brent Impey and Sussan Turner.
The Citation said, “This award recognises a broadcaster who has made the sort of impact that influences and enhances the way we broadcast and operate as broadcasters.”
Mr Khan received his Award from Media Works Radio Chief Executive Officer Wendy Palmer with Jono (of Ben and Jono fame) as the host.
Receiving the Award, Mr Khan spoke about his journey and the challenges that he continues to face in keeping Independent Radio alive in New Zealand.
Pillars of strength
“I attribute this Award to the members of my team at Radio Tarana who are committed to high standards of professionalism, customer service and offering the best to the communities we serve. I am also grateful to my wife Prakashni, who is a pillar of strength and our children who keep me grounded and my parents for their unconditional support and inspiration,” he said.
Describing the Indian community as ‘a part of the Award,’ he said that Radio is constantly evolving and that Tarana always embraced change.
“There will always be one Tarana brand and it will always be inimitable,” he said.
“The world of Radio may appear glamorous for the onlooker but it calls for alacrity, elegant presentation and excellent communication skills. News stories are constantly developing and they are always heard first on the Radio. It is amazing how this medium has come to be on its own. The ability to instantly go on air to inform the world is what makes us unique in the media industry,” Mr Khan said.
Photo :
Robert Khan with his Trophy and Citation
