More related content on the BRIDGE
- 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
- Creator Economy Panel 9 December 11:15 - 11:35AM
The New Powerbrokers of Philanthropy
Public figures are reshaping philanthropy, blending entertainment with impact and challenging traditional giving models. MrBeast’s YouTube charity has raised millions, while TikTok fundraisers now rival institutional campaigns in reach and speed. As creators build direct pipelines to donors and causes, what standards, partnerships, or guardrails could help ensure transparency, effectiveness, and lasting impact? Could creator-led giving become a new blueprint for global generosity at scale?
Impact StageSpeakers
- Media Panel 8 December 3:00 - 3:30PM
The Media Blueprint for a Healthier Society
Media has become the frontline for shaping how societies understand health, science, identity, and dignity. Ameenah Gurib-Fakim brings a scientific and geopolitical lens on public communication, while Betty Irabor brings cultural authority and lived experience in shaping media that heals rather than harms. The session explores how media systems—traditional and digital—can responsibly influence public mindset, support mental and cultural wellbeing, and create narratives that empower rather than stigmatize.
Impact StageSpeakers
Moderator
- Music Panel 9 December 4:40 - 5:05PM
The Future Sounds Like This
Behind every breakout artist, songwriter, and producer is a blueprint. In this session, music executives break down what it really takes to go from zero to a million streams. From storytelling and distribution to publishing, touring, and fan discovery, they share the playbook for scaling talent and building sustainable careers in today’s attention economy.
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- Media Workshop 8 December 11:20AM - 12:00PM
Empowering Youth: Unlocking Opportunities through "Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation" Programs/ year of community
An engaging workshop exploring how the Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation and IMI empower youth through education, mentorship, and skill development. Participants will discover real success stories, engage in collaborative activities to identify gaps and opportunities in media and communication, and leave with tangible steps to join AGF and IMI initiatives driving the Year of Community. Trainer: Mona Ghandar & Rami Al Majzoub, Al Ghurair Foundation & IMI
IMI Academy - Creator Economy Fireside 9 December 5:20 - 5:35PM
The Bridge of Becoming: From Inner Child to Self
In this playful yet deeply honest session, Egyptian comedian, actor, and writer Ahmed Amin explores creativity, courage, and the selves we grow into. Through stories, humor, and hard-earned reflection, he unpacks identity, vulnerability, and what it really takes to stay curious and authentic while the world keeps trying to make us serious adults.
Explore by InstagramSpeakers
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