Anna Leach’s feature about the breakdown of sectarian divisions in Ulster’s gay community caught the judges’ attention for its strong story and fresh approach.

Born in England but raised in Belfast, 24-year-old Anna said she wanted to present a more optimistic view of Northern Ireland: “It just struck me that it’s only ever negative stories that come out.” Last year Anna was awarded a Master’s degree in journalism by Goldsmith’s College, University of London, and is currently on a work placement at The Independent. Anna was a member of GLYNI in 2007/08!
She now plans to pursue a careerin feature-writing.

You can check out Anna’s article on The Independent’s own site at:

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/this-britain/how-pride-is-overcoming-prejudice-in-belfast-1515559.html