St Anne’s graduate student, Simar Bajaj, shortlisted for Young Journalist of the Year

We’re proud to share the news that Simar Bajaj, a member of our MCR, has been shortlisted by the Press Awards for Young Journalist of the Year 2025.

Of Simar, the Press Awards say: “Simar Bajaj is a 22-year-old freelancer who does a remarkable job centering the human story in his work. He delivers solid science with elan and wide-ranging references to history, making complex medical topics accessible. His award entry includes features on the tortuousness of “phone addiction,” the ways obesity drugs are transforming mental health, and an insider’s look into the world of trauma surgery and advocacy. It is a diverse portfolio that demonstrates Simar’s ability to find science in lifestyle stories, closely scrutinize academic research, and immerse readers with his prose.

Indeed, Simar’s trauma surgery profile offers a masterclass in storytelling, weaving the deeply personal journey of Dr. Joseph Sakran with a broader commentary on gun violence and healthcare in America. This piece demanded extraordinary commitment, from Simar plunging himself into Sakran’s trauma service to spending a full year reporting. Simar, in turn, brings readers inside the chaos and despair, while offering a first-rate analysis of what bullets do to bodies. The piece is both lyrical and unflinching, bearing witness to the horrors that trauma surgeons in the United States confront daily.”

Simar comments: “It’s an incredible honor since I am the youngest finalist across all the categories. The winner will be announced in late May, and I’m hoping for the best.” 

Best of luck to Simar from all at St Anne’s!