Jessica Azar

Jessica Joseph Azar is a Lebanese journalist and TV host with over a decade of experience in media and social activism. She gained national attention in 2018 when she ran for parliamentary elections in Lebanon’s Metn district, becoming one of the youngest and most talked-about candidates for her outspoken views and stance against the Syrian regime. Her career spans print, digital, and television, making her a prominent voice in regional political and social discourse.

Jessica began her career with Annahar’s youth platform and Now Lebanon, contributing to critical conversations on national issues. She later spent nine years at MTV Lebanon as a reporter and senior news anchor before creating Al Ahad Mnehke, a program focused on women’s empowerment. Her hit talk show 40, which aired on MTV Lebanon and Dubai TV for three seasons, featured in-depth interviews with celebrities and politicians. Academically, she holds a Master’s in Government from Harvard University, a Graduate Certificate in International Relations, and an Executive Certificate in Public Policy from the Harvard Kennedy School, along with a Journalism degree from Notre Dame University.

At BRIDGE Summit, Jessica will explore the role of media in shaping public opinion, empowering youth and women, and holding power to account in an era of political and social transformation.