The National Magazine Awards Foundation announced today that veteran broadcaster, journalist and comedy host Ralph Benmergui will be the Master of Ceremonies at the 35th anniversary NMA gala on June 7, at the Carlu in Toronto.
Throughout his career Ralph has journeyed from TV to radio and print journalism, and delved into the worlds of current affairs and variety programming. A former host of CBC Radio’s Prime Time and several CBC-TV variety shows including Friday Night! with Ralph Benmergui and Benmergui Live, he was for many years the morning voice of JazzFM91, Canada’s premier Jazz radio station.
The five-time Gemini nominee was also the executive producer of SmartAsk, the CBC-TV quiz show, and Stuart Maclean’s Christmas special. He is also the recipient of the prestigious Japan Prize for Best International Youth Programming.
Ralph has also hosted an array of comedy specials including Seriously Funny in Canada and Punchlines in the Sand, and also appeared on Just for Laughs. He’s written for The Globe and Mail, the Toronto Star and The Mark.
Currently he and his wife, journalist Cortney Pasternak, are developing New Sabbath Project, creating community one meal at a time. The proud father of four is also engaged in the Freedom 85 plan, which places him in the enviable position of working somewhat begrudgingly until he draws his last breath.
Tickets for the 35th anniversary National Magazine Awards are on sale now. The early-bird deadline is Friday May 18 — order now and save.
{Photo credit: Frank Nagy}
