More related content on the BRIDGE
- Marketing Panel 10 December 12:25 - 12:55PM
The Human-Anchored Marketing
Marketing is in a moment of radical change. AI has upended old systems, blurring the line between creativity and code. Yet even as teams adopt new tools and workflows, the core challenge remains keeping humanity at the heart of every story. This conversation explores how marketers are shuffeling their operations to co-create with technology while keeping authenticity, accountability, and empathy at the center because even in an algorithmic age, creativity and humanity still move hearts, minds, and markets.
Central Stage - Media Panel 9 December 10:20 - 10:40AM
Building Media’s New Talent Engine
Traditional journalism schools are struggling to keep pace as AI, global storytelling, and rapid news cycles transform the industry. A June 2025 Guardian analysis warns AI may eliminate up to 50% of entry-level journalism jobs. How can education evolve to deliver faster, deeper, and more relevant training for the next generation of media professionals?
Academy StageSpeakers
Moderator
- 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
- Media Presentation 9 December 1:15 - 1:30PM
Memes as a Media Business
Memes have evolved from inside jokes to infrastructure, shorthand for how culture communicates, trades attention, and builds identity. What began as internet humour now drives audience behaviour, politics, and brand value. In this session, the architects of today’s meme networks unpack how they’ve scaled communities into businesses: from managing millions of followers to producing longform shows, podcasts, live activations, and brand IP. Together, they explore the transition from meme pages to media empires — and what that says about the future of storytelling, fandom, and cultural authority.
Explore by InstagramSpeakers
- Picture Workshop 9 December 11:45AM - 1:45PM
Finding Your Voice in a Very Competitive Film Market 1\2
Day 1 — Understanding Your Voice The workshop focuses on helping participants discover their unique creative voice and clarify tone, genre, and style. Includes practical exercises, case studies, and feedback on initial project ideas.
Workshop Room 4Speakers
- Media Fireside 10 December 3:10 - 3:25PM
Building a Legacy That Speaks for Itself
Arsène Wenger is more than a name in football; he's a philosophy. In this session, he reflects on how staying true to vision, values, and discipline can build a personal brand that lasts far beyond results or headlines. Through lessons from decades at the highest level, Wenger shares how authenticity, integrity, and consistency create influence that endures long after the final whistle.
Forum StageModerator