Surrey journalist Tom Zytaruk to receive Webster lifetime achievement award

Veteran Surrey Now-Leader journalist Tom Zytaruk will receive the 2026 Bruce Hutchison Lifetime Achievement Award from the Jack Webster Foundation, recognizing 35 years of work at the Black Press Media publication.

Zytaruk is widely known for court and crime reporting and has received more than 30 North American, national and provincial writing awards. The foundation described him as a tenacious journalist with an exceptional network of contacts and as a valued mentor to colleagues.

He has also written two books, including the B.C. bestseller Like a Rock: The Chuck Cadman Story. Zytaruk said he was thrilled by the recognition and was still processing the news.

Investigative reporter Negar Mojtahedi will receive the Bill Good Award, while CBC producer Anne Penman will receive the Shelley Fralic Award. This year’s Webster Awards gala is scheduled for Nov. 2 at the Hyatt Regency Vancouver.