The Silversleven award is presented annually to one or more journalists who have, in some way, "made a difference" with their work. This image shows the 2020 Silversleven.
The Publicist Club of Northern Norrland annually awards the prestigious Silversleven prize to one or more journalists in the region whose work has made a significant impact. This might include an exposé, a compelling series of articles, or an innovative approach to journalism.
Paul Connolly, reporter and editor for Norran English, is among this year's nominees. The nomination reads:
"For his work on Norran’s English site. For his efforts in delivering news in English at a time when news for newly arrived Skellefteå residents who do not speak Swedish is needed more than ever."
– It was a complete surprise. I’m shocked, says Paul.
Norran English was launched in February 2023. The English-language sub-site features a selection of Norran's news and reports, as well as original content aimed specifically at newly arrived Skellefteå residents.
– Norran English is here to help non-Swedish speakers feel included in the community and to give them a voice, says Paul Connolly.
In recent months, much of the news coverage has focused on Northvolt, and Norran English has played a particularly important role, he says.
– This nomination should really go to everyone on the editorial team who has covered Northvolt, says Paul.
Norran's editor-in-chief, Malin Christoffersson, is happy to see Norran English and Paul Connolly's work being recognised.
– It’s wonderful. It’s a unique initiative to make local journalism accessible to those who haven’t yet learned Swedish. Paul is doing an amazing job, and for many English-speaking Skellefteå residents, Norran English is their primary news source, she says.
Norran's editor-in-chief, Malin Christoffersson, thinks it is great that Paul Connolly is being nominated for his work with Norran English. Archive photo.
Silversleven
The winner of Silversleven will be announced on March 29. The winner of PK Norra's Honorary Mention will also be revealed then.
This year's nominees are:
Simon Engstrand, Uppdrag Granskning, for "Gambler."
Kerstin Eriksson, Karin Bernspång, and Hanna Eriksson, Västerbottens-kuriren, for their investigation into the transportation service in Umeå.
Elias Paulsson and Ellika Nilsson, SVT Nyheter Norrbotten, for their investigation into tax fraud in the cryptocurrency industry.
Paul Connolly, Norran, for his work with Norran English.
Maria Dahlgren, NSD, for her investigation into elderly care in Kiruna.
Source: Publicistklubben Norra Norrland.