A budding young journalist has been crowned winner of an ITV News-run competition to uncover fresh talent and increase diversity within the industry.

Nasaybah Hussain, from Newham, clinched the Breaking Into News initiative title run by ITV News in conjunction with the Media Trust.

Working closely with assistant news editor at ITV London news, Chloe Keedy, the 18-year-old put together a TV package on whether accents have an impact on peoples’ future job prospects.

Following their mentoring periods, Nasaybah and the other finalists in the competition had to pitch their news reports to a panel of high-profile judges.

She said: “I have learnt just what it takes to create a newsworthy story, all the hard work and research that it involves, and how every tiny detail contributes to a story.

“I would highly recommend anyone who is thinking about pursuing a career in journalism to apply for this initiative, because it truly is an amazing experience, one that gives you a real insight into the everyday life of a broadcast journalist.”

She added: “It has made me realize that this is exactly what I want to do as a career.”

Now in its third year, the initiative, gives 18 to 25-year-olds the opportunity to be mentored in writing, reporting, and production skills, by extremely experienced broadcast journalists from the ITV News.

Nasaybah was crowned the winner at an official presentation ceremony at ITV  News in London.  She spent the day with the team producing ITV News at Ten, and was also presented with an ipad.

Managing editor of ITV News Robin Elias, said: “The standard of entries was extremely high and all the finalists displayed a great deal of talent, so it was a difficult choice, but in the end the judges were unanimous in their praise for Nasaybah.

“Her final news report shows real creativity and skill – she should be really proud of what she has achieved.”

Deputy chief executive at the Media Trust, Katie Lloyd added: “Nasaybah is a deserving winner and impressed us all with her quirky news report and outstanding pitch.”