Seven West Media has named Nuwan Ranasinghe as the second recipient of the David Leckie Seven Scholarship Program, following the success of inaugural recipient, Madeline McKeown, who has secured a full-time producer position at Weekend Sunrise.
Established in September 2021, the annual program honours the legacy of the late David Leckie, former Seven West Media Chief Executive Officer.
The scholarship offers a 12-month role at Seven West Media for a graduate with a passion for sales, programming or news. It was set up in partnership with Skye Leckie and David and Skye’s sons, Harry and Ben.
The selection process was overseen by Skye, Harry and Ben Leckie and senior Seven West Media executives.
Skye, Harry and Ben Leckie said: “Harry, Ben and I were thrilled to be involved in the selection of the second recipient of David’s scholarship.
“We are delighted to have Nuwan join Seven West Media, following Madeline’s success. Nuwan has demonstrated an exceptional aptitude for media and a drive for excellence that we believe aligns perfectly with David’s vision. We can’t wait to see how Nuwan will grow and contribute during his time at Seven.
“We are also proud that Madeline McKeown, the inaugural recipient of the David Leckie Seven Scholarship Program, has recently landed a position as a producer on Weekend Sunrise. This significant achievement showcases the impact and opportunities offered by the scholarship program, and Seven is committed to supporting the growth and success of future recipients.
“David’s unwavering passion for TV and his role as a tough taskmaster drove people to achieve greatness, and we feel he would have been delighted to welcome Nuwan to his team. We wish Nuwan the best and urge him to seize every opportunity provided by Seven,” they said.
Seven West Media Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, James Warburton, said: “David’s mentorship and camaraderie left an indelible mark on many of us at Seven, making the David Leckie Seven Scholarship Program a fitting tribute to his enduring legacy.
“Nuwan’s intelligence, motivation and eagerness to learn and grow in the media industry align with the qualities David valued. I have no doubt he would have been immensely impressed by Nuwan and would have offered exceptional mentorship. Along with Skye, the Leckie family and the entire Seven team, I am delighted to welcome Nuwan and look forward to his flourishing career with us.”
