More related content on the BRIDGE
- Media Fireside 10 December 10:30 - 11:00AM
New Formats for New Voices
As influence moves from traditional media gatekeepers to millions of independent creators, a defining question emerges: who gets to shape narratives, and on what terms? This session explores how emerging formats, from hyper-short video to participatory storytelling and community-rooted audio, are redistributing visibility, expanding representation, and reshaping how audiences connect with the world.
Central Stage - Creator Economy Fireside 8 December 1:00 - 1:15PM
How One Question Led to a Multi-Million Dollar Personal Brand Empire
Daniel Mac went from a $50k finance job to earning seven figures a year armed with nothing more than an iPhone and the same question he asks supercar owners on Rodeo Drive: “What do you do for a living?” In this session, Daniel breaks down the exact turning point that made him quit corporate America, how he monetized millions of views without ever feeling salesy, the brand-deal framework that now pays him for posting on social media, why he launched a podcast to convert viral viewers into lifelong fans, and the quiet strategies he’s using to make sure the “Daniel Mac” brand outlives TikTok and other social media. If you have ever wondered how to turn pure curiosity and a repeatable hook into a real business, this is the blueprint.
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- Technology Fireside 8 December 11:05 - 11:20AM
Alexis Ohanian on ‘Re-turning’ the Web
Alexis Ohanian helped launch one of the internet’s most influential communities and is now reimagining the future through his firm Seven Seven Six. In this fireside, he shares where the creator economy is heading, how AI is reshaping value and ownership, and what lessons from building Reddit still matter to media leaders today. Expect insights on the next global hubs of innovation and what trends will define 2026.
Forum StageModerator
- Picture Presentation 8 December 3:55 - 4:10PM
Why It’s Important for an Actor to Produce
Actors today sit at the front line of cultural influence, yet often remain distant from the decisions that shape the stories they tell. In this session, Egyptian actor and filmmaker Ahmed Magdy examines why stepping into the producer’s role is becoming essential for creators who want greater agency, artistic integrity, and long-term impact. Drawing on his trajectory from Egypt’s independent cinema movement to building Garage Art Production, Magdy explores how actors can catalyze new talent, strengthen local creative ecosystems, and drive a more intentional, sustainable future for storytelling.
Academy Stage - Media Workshop 10 December 3:10 - 3:50PM
From Podcast to Vodcast
Unlock the secrets of compelling guest conversations, from the mic to the ears, and master the art of connecting, guiding, and leaving a lasting impact on your listeners. Trainer: Lubna Al Kholy, Sky News Arabia
IMI Academy - Creator Economy Panel 9 December 12:00 - 12:15PM
Breaking Down the Creator Monetization Stack
The creator economy is set to exceed $500 billion by 2027, driven by over 50 million individuals building businesses on platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Patreon, according to Goldman Sachs. While brand deals remain dominant, creators are increasingly monetizing through subscriptions, affiliate marketing, merchandise, and direct-to-fan models. The UAE is at the forefront of this shift, with initiatives like the New Media Academy, 1 Billion Followers Summit, and regulatory exemptions contributing AED 2.5 billion to GDP in 2024. As monetization channels multiply and governments invest in creator-friendly infrastructures and supports, how can creators further grow revenue stacks to reflect their values, engage their communities, and support long-term growth?
Academy StageModerator
