Maya Manna is the Head of RT Arabic, one of the most influential Arabic-language news networks in the world, a position she has held since 2013. She has overseen the channel’s rise as a major platform for news, analysis and political storytelling, supported by an extensive network of regional bureaus and international correspondents.
Under her leadership, RT Arabic became the first non-Arab broadcaster in the region to surpass one billion YouTube views and launched RT Online, the first Arabic-language media project to broadcast live on social platforms. Maya has led coverage of major global and regional events, from elections and world summits to wars and international sports, while expanding the channel’s reach into new markets and developing original programming.
At BRIDGE Summit, Maya will examine the geopolitics of media influence, narrative sovereignty and how regional broadcasters can shape global perception in an age defined by information competition and digital fragmentation.
As algorithms optimize for engagement at all costs, trust becomes collateral damage and meaningful storytelling gets crowded out. Yet new models, from subscription-driven communities to integrity-based brand partnerships and mission-aligned monetization, are challenging the old trade-offs between influence and authenticity. This session asks a fundamental question: can media build sustainable businesses that monetize integrity without compromising impact?
Executive Director, Media Foundation for West Africa
Co-Founder & CEO, Sard Media Group
Economic Adviser, UAE National Media Office
Tech & Gaming Executive and CEO, Future Dynamics
Chief Operating Office, Diwan Videos
“One BRIDGE to unite them all. BRIDGE Summit looks to become the largest cross-sector media event in the world.”
“A gateway for knowledge exchange.”
“A summit to BRIDGE the gaps in the global media ecosystem.”
“We are proud to take part in the inaugural edition of BRIDGE Summit.”
“Un pont pour tous les réunir.”
