JoySports’ Nathaniel Attoh nominated for GJA Sports Journalist of the Year

JoySports journalist Nathaniel Attoh has earned a nomination for Sports Journalist of the Year at the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards, following his compelling documentary on the inspiring journey of Ghanaian para-athlete Gilbert Ampiah. Titled The Audacious Leap, the documentary tells the story of Ampiah, a then 16-year-old student and high jumper from St.

Augustine’s College in Cape Coast, who has overcome physical challenges to pursue his athletics ambitions. Attoh produced the documentary, which was originally aired on JoyNews on May 19, 2025. The Audacious Leap For the documentary, Nathaniel Attoh visited Ampiah at St. Augustine’s College, where he spoke to people who have played important roles in the teenager’s journey, including his father, teachers, trainers and colleagues.

Born with a leg deformity, Ampiah has defied the odds to establish himself as a promising junior para-athlete with ambitions of competing on the international stage. His training performance ahead of the 2025 inter-schools competition went viral on social media, bringing wider attention to his talent and determination. Among his notable achievements was clearing 1.60 metres at Ekumfi Atwa in 2023, where he competed against able-bodied athletes.

He later set a personal best of 1.82 metres at St. Augustine’s College’s inter-house competition. His progress continued on the international stage, with the teenager claiming bronze in the High Jump T44 category at the Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan International Para Athletics Meeting in Marrakech, Morocco. Ampiah cleared 1.73 metres to secure his first international medal.

Attoh’s nomination recognises his work in telling the story of a young Ghanaian athlete whose determination and achievements have inspired many.