In a message that blends humanity with professionalism, and challenge with determination, the Jordanian Media Commission on Wednesday issued a letter of thanks and appreciation to Roya TV, recognizing its unique initiative in appointing Jordanian youth Rashid Rababa’a, who is visually impaired, as a news bulletin presenter within the channel’s team.

This step serves as a testament to the channel’s policy of integrating talent and promoting equal opportunities, highlighting an inspiring story of Rashid, who overcame obstacles to achieve his dream on screen despite numerous health and social challenges.

According to the commission’s statement, this initiative is not merely a professional step but a "profound message reflecting faith in the abilities of Jordanian persons with disabilities and a commitment to equal opportunities in the media field." The commission added that "creativity knows no disabilities, and diversity is the key to excellence and leadership," praising Roya TV as "a pioneering national platform that reflects a commendable image of responsible Jordanian media."

A Clear Compass

The Jordanian Media Commission’s initiative serves as a clear compass for the path of national media, emphasizing the commitment of official institutions to support responsible and professional media practices and encourage the integration of talents from all groups, including persons with disabilities. It also sends a strong message to society and all media institutions that creativity has no limits and that equal opportunities are the cornerstone of building a leading and influential Jordanian media.

Challenge and Determination

Rashid Rababa’a’s journey began in Jdita village in Irbid in 1997, facing numerous hardships, from losing his father in a car accident in 2008 to undergoing eye removal surgeries in 2018 and 2019. Yet, he did not let these challenges extinguish his passion for media, spending hours practicing radio bulletins before graduating this year in “Media and Communication Technology” and starting his professional journey on digital platforms.

Rashid relies on the Braille system to read news, using a special printer to print texts, and he must put in extra effort compared to other presenters. He smiles and says, “If it requires writing the news bulletin on stone, I will present it myself. Retreat is impossible, and there is no disability in the face of determination.”

Roya TV took a bold step by hiring him in May, making it the first Jordanian channel to feature a visually impaired presenter on screen. Rashid hopes his story will serve as an inspiration for other media institutions to open doors for persons with disabilities and give them real opportunities to achieve their dreams.