In The Hot Seat – Loubo Siois

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Team TMN sits down with Loubo Siois, TV Host and Executive Producer of The Dubai Talk Show, who talks about his new TV show and his view of the media industry in the region…

Name: Loubo Siois

Age: 26

From: Greece

Current Job Title: TV Host and Executive Producer of The Dubai Talk Show on Fox Channel

 When did you first arrive in Dubai?

In 2011, I was inspired after watching a movie about Dubai.

Where did you work prior?

My career has evolved around brands such as The Walt Disney Company, Nestle and Nike from the Marketing side, but nowadays I’m aiming for a TV salary of Jimmy Fallon’s level.

What were your first impressions of the media industry in the Middle East?

My first encounter with the media industry was during the Abu Dhabi Film Festival in 2011. I was fascinated by the variety and diversity of the people involved in the media and film industry here and around the region.

Tell us about your new late night talk show…

The Dubai Talk Show is an English-speaking late night talk show, showcasing celebrity interviews, topical monologue jokes and comedy sketches. In summary, giving a reason for celebrities like Nicki Minaj to look at my face for one hour and not feel awkward about it.

What challenges do you face?

Multitasking. Just think that The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon has 200 permanent employees, I won’t say how many we have.

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

The influence, instead of having a coffee at Costa with hundreds of different people to pass on a message. I just have two to three interviews with well-known celebrities and pass on the message much faster.

What advice would you offer to someone looking to start a career in media in the UAE?

Be prepared to knock on every door in Media City, Internet City, Business Bay etc. to promote yourself.

What do you think of the quality of TV shows in the region?

Very many people have ideas and try to pursue them but only a few succeed in the long run like Arab’s Got Talent and Arab Idol, I wonder why.

How do you find PRs in the region?

I find them to be decent people.

What’s your pet PR peeve?

Example of a recent communication with PR agency, regarding product placement in our TV Show
Loubo: Can we do paid produce placement?

Client: Sorry, no money but we can offer a barter deal (suits)

Loubo: OK, give me suits

Client: Sorry, no budget

Loubo: Budget? as in money or suits?

Client: Both

What advice can you offer PRs seeking coverage on your show?

I am a very business-minded TV Host. Just get in touch through our website, Facebook, Instagram and we can create a win-win situation.

What’s your most overused saying?

At the end of the end, it doesn’t matter.

Five things you can’t live without?

Internet, beef steaks, hair gel, cotton socks and greek yogurt

If you weren’t in your current role, what would you be doing?

Either working for a corporate brand or a small agency.

What is your favourite form of media (i.e; TV, radio, print)?

Radio when driving, newspaper in the toilet and TV at night.

What’s your favourite TV show?

House of Cards, Narcos, Suits

What’s your most used social media platform?

Instagram

In The Hot Seat – Matthew Moore

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Matthew Moore, Group Marketing Manager at GN Media, tells TMN about the media industry and how it tends to make an impact in the Middle East…

Name: Matthew Moore 

Age: 37

From: UK  

Current Job Title: Group Marketing Manager, Gulf News

When did you first arrive in Dubai?

At the end of January 2016, straight from the UK.

Where did you work prior?

Before coming to Dubai, I was Head of Marketing at Johnston Press, one of the UK’s leading media organisations and before that I was at DMGT, working mainly on The Daily Mail.

What were your first impressions of the media industry in the Middle East?

I have been really impressed, it is diverse and evolving at a really fast pace so it’s an exciting time to be involved.

Has your opinion changed much?

A little, there are certainly differences compared to the UK. Some trends are less prominent whilst others are more advanced than I had imagined. I’ve been really surprised at how relevant mobile adoption and usage is here. As a marketer that’s a great platform for engaging, rich content.

Tell us about your current role…

I drive the marketing strategy for Gulf News Media (Al Nisr Publishing LLC), we publish the Gulf News and a wide range of magazines. It’s marketing’s job to grow our audiences across all of our brands, to increase customer engagement and from a revenue perspective, monetise our audiences as well.

What challenges do you face?

There has never been more choice for audiences in terms of where they get their news, and any other content that’s interesting and relevant to them. So the main challenge is ensuring our brands, their content and our marketing – cuts through – and is attractive, engaging as well as relevant to our audiences, so they continue to choose our brands. On the flip side for b2b, it’s about using insights and data we have to connect brands with our audiences through clever, creative solutions.

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

Seeing a campaign come to life and consumers engaging with it. We now have a wealth of data and analytics, so we can see in real-time how a campaign or content piece is working. It’s also great for the team that works so hard to see their efforts pay off.

How would you rather be contacted at work?

I suppose email is the most convenient, and we all use it but I’d prefer to have a conversation!

Describe yourself in five words…

Competitive, committed, driven, friendly and happy

What’s your most overused saying?

Trust me, it will be fine?!

Five things you can’t live without?

My family, friends, sports (I will watch anything! Rodeo from Texas was on TV last night and I was hooked) good coffee and I hate to say it but I guess my phone.

If you weren’t in your current role, what would you be doing?

I’ve always quite liked the idea of being a chef, a professional golfer or a tennis player also appeals.

What is your favourite form of media (i.e; TV, radio, print)?

Wow – difficult. I really enjoy them all for different reasons. Great radio is really absorbing and engaging; and I’m a fan of rolling TV news, whilst digital, mobile and social media continue to grow rapidly – so I’ll say print. There is still something really nice about holding a physical newspaper or magazine, I think there is a nostalgic element to print which people relate to.

In The Hot Seat – Anna Sadeghpour

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We chat with Anna Sadeghpour, Founder of newly-launched community blog, Anahata Dubai, who talks about the most rewarding part of blogging and offers some advice to those looking to launch their own blog…

Name:  Anna Sadeghpour

Age: 30

From: Australia

Current Job Title: Founder of Anahata Dubai and freelance Writer/Marketer

When did you first arrive in Dubai?
I moved to Dubai in June 2013, from Sydney, Australia.

Where did you work prior?
In Australia, I worked in marketing communications exclusively for humanitarian organisations ranging from government entities set up to represent the rights of adolescents, to projects supporting education for marginalised children, to human rights work through Amnesty International Australia. Since relocating to the UAE, I’ve worked in the digital marketing team at DMCC and as a freelance Marketing Consultant.

What were your first impressions of the media industry in the Middle East?
My first impressions were that digital media was quite behind compared to international markets. That things move and change really fast, and that relationships in this region are paramount.

Has your opinion changed much?
Middle Eastern culture is very warm and hospitable, so the relationship-centred approach to business is still dominant. It’s something I’ve grown to really enjoy and appreciate. In terms of changes, I’ve seen an increase in innovative digital campaigns coming out of this region, which is promising.

Is blogging your full-time job or a part-time passion?
It’s a part-time passion. When I’m not working on Anahata Dubai, I’m doing a mixed bag of writing, blogging and marketing work for a variety of clients.

Tell us about Anahata Dubai…
Anahata Dubai (www.anahata.me) is a community service blog for Dubai, which connects residents with all of the social and environmental initiatives taking place in the emirate. The blog covers a range of themes – from offering every day advice on how to make a difference, to promoting social impact events and campaigns taking place in the city, to featuring some of our local changemakers. It aims to inspire every individual in Dubai to give back to the community.

What’s the most rewarding part of blogging?
The most rewarding part of Anahata Dubai is being able to combine my skills and passion into an enterprise that helps others. I also can’t complain about working on my own time and being able to pursue my own stories!

What advice would you offer to someone looking to start a blog/career in the media industry?
If you’re passionate, committed and have something that’s truly useful or relatable to offer others, just do it. Start the blog and start living the life you want today. When you overcome your fears and truly give in to something bigger than yourself, you will be blown away by what the universe gives back to you.

Do you accept press material from PRs?
Yes of course, but I’ll only write about products and initiatives that are ethical and that I believe in.

How would you rather be contacted at work?
Email is the easiest and best way to contact me.

Describe yourself in five words…
Passionate, independent, friendly, detailed, spiritual.

Five things you can’t live without?
My family, kitty, phone, yoga pass and hair straightener.

If you weren’t in media, what would you be doing?
I have to say, I’m now doing exactly what I want to be doing. However, in an alternate universe, I’d love to travel the world watching wildlife with Sir David Attenborough. His nature documentaries absolutely blow my mind!

How do you see online journalism/blogging changing in the UAE in the coming years?
I see a surge of new homegrown bloggers and a move towards vlogging.

What would be the next step for you (would you look to launching a publication, collaborating with any brands/media etc.)?
I’ve just started my journey with Anahata Dubai, so my immediate priority is building a community of changemakers that can make a real social impact. Beyond that, I’m very open to collaborations that can help to further this mission.

In The Hot Seat – Grace Asmar

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We catch up with Grace Asmar, Director of Practices and Offerings at Cicero & Bernay Public Relations, who talks about the media industry in the Middle East and how she hopes it will evolve in the future…

Name: Grace Asmar

Age: Mark Twain once said “Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.”                

From: Lebanese French a.k.a. Canada        

Current Job Title: Director – Practices & Offerings, Cicero & Bernay Public Relations

When did you first arrive in Dubai?
I first landed in Dubai back in 1989. My family and career then took me on a journey through many cities across the Middle East and Canada for almost 10 years. I came back to Dubai last year.

Where did you work prior?
I started my career as a TV producer here in Dubai. I then joined a multinational public relations agency, where I worked in different markets which included; Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Canada and Jordan.

What were your first impressions of the media industry in the Middle East?
Like all first timers, I looked at it as a growing industry in a young market. Even as a seasoned professional, I landed in this media industry with an understanding that the local media would be a completely new experience for me.

Has your opinion changed much?
Completely. There are several reasons behind this but first and foremost, the local media was a pleasant surprise. Publications are far richer and far more mature than I had thought. The ever-expanding industry working alongside the local media has provided the PR sector with the freedom to push creative boundaries and actually implement out of the box ideas. That being said, the industry is still advancing and it’s always going to be exciting to look back and evaluate the progress it’s made in less than a decade.

Tell us about your current role…
As my title says, I am the Director of the Agency’s Practices – internal, growth oriented and proprietary – and its Offerings – client communication, strategy counsel and day-to-day management.

What challenges do you face?
Like all specialists in their respective professions, PR practitioners want to know the “next big thing.” The industry is evolving so quickly, it’s now about hyper-personalised content, real-time crisis management, the role of traditional journalism and highly effective, measurable PR. The challenge is to keep up with the fundamental game changes that the PR profession is going through at this time more than ever.

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
I feel rewarded when I leave my office with the knowledge that someone, somewhere is leaving happy because of what my team and I have accomplished.

What do you think is the secret to successful leadership?
Emotional intelligence.

What advice would you offer to someone looking to start a career in media in the UAE?
Be ready to put in the hours, be ready to stand by your ethics and welcome to the most interesting profession!

What do you think of the quality of media publications in the region?
I think that we have some of the most diversified media bouquets in the world. I really cannot think of another region where you enter a bookstore or switch on the television and find a choice of 50-60 languages, with content ranging from news to pet TV shows and everything in between.

In your opinion, what makes a PR campaign successful?
When FACTS do the talking.

How would you rather be contacted at work?
Anything but email, I have 182 unread emails even as I answer your questions!

Five things you can’t live without?
My kids, my husband, my everyday challenges, my coffee and my heels

If you weren’t in your current role, what would you be doing?
Probably running a bed and breakfast in a quiet town somewhere in the Mediterranean. Although I fear I would become the town’s media ambassador before I know it.

How do you see media changing in the UAE in the coming years?
I truly believe that the media will become stronger, with opinions more defined. I hope and await the day when one reporter from the UAE will win a Pulitzer prize and do us all proud.

If you could have one work wish granted, what would it be?
If I could somehow import the French language of diplomacy, the Canadian Indian summer colors and the Lebanese survival know-how to my office, I would never leave the workplace.

What is your favourite form of media (i.e; TV, radio, print)?
I think print will never die. Especially as they publish Netflix schedules now!
But seriously, jokes apart, what I love about the printed paper is the amount of diligence, preparation and crafting that it takes for anything to make print ‘news’. And that’s after someone or something has done enough to be deemed ‘newsworthy’.

In The Hot Seat – Jonathan Shillington

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Jonathan Shillington, Managing Director at Grayling Middle East, offers his advice to leaders in the communications industry and discusses how agencies must adapt to their environment in the Middle East…

Name: Jonathan Shillington

Age: 45

From: United Kingdom

Current Job Title: Managing Director, Middle East, Grayling

When did you first arrive in Dubai?

I have worked in Dubai since 2012, but only fully moved here in June. I am currently getting to know Dubai from a different perspective as a new resident, with my family – which is very different from flying in and out for work!

Where did you work prior?

I was Managing Director of Grayling’s business in Qatar, and for several years led an embedded team of advisers at Qatar Foundation’s communication directorate. Before that I was the head of Grayling UK’s Corporate and Financial practice in London. I started my career in London, working in marketing for a fund management company.

What were your first impressions of the media industry in the Middle East?

Coming from London, which has such a diverse, investigative and questioning media tradition, it did take a while to understand and appreciate some of the differences in the two media landscapes. What works in London does not necessarily work in Dubai, Doha or Muscat. Too many expats come here expecting to impose their home country’s ways of doing things, without taking the time to develop an understanding of the cultural differences and attributes of each country in the GCC and wider Middle East.

How has your opinion changed?

As economic conditions have become tougher in the last year due mainly to falling oil prices, communications and marketing budgets have tightened across the board in the GCC. Organisations are demanding more and more from PR – and are having to really demonstrate the tangible benefits of communications to their boards – usually in terms of proving how it is ultimately benefiting the bottom line. Helping clients to gain an increased share of voice by comparison to their competitors for the right reasons is key to what we do. This isn’t about lots of press releases every week or social media posts every day, but it is about ensuring the delivery of really great content and developing real understanding and relationships with people. This is about listening to and talking with your audiences as well as being as transparent as possible about how you conduct your business.

Tell us about your current role…

I am the Managing Director for Grayling’s business in the Middle East – responsible for all aspects of our PR business in this region. Absolutely key to what I do is making sure we provide the best possible service to our clients. We have long established offices in Dubai and Doha, and last year we opened an office in Muscat. Last week, we signed an exclusive affiliation agreement with PGt Advertising in Tehran, which is an exciting development for us as Iran becomes increasingly open for international business.

What challenges do you face?

You have got to be able to multi-task and keep calm under pressure. When I started out in the mid-90s you would tend to finish work at 6pm and that would be it until the next day. Now it is pretty much non-stop – you are on call 24/7. If you are not able to check your emails in the evening and on the weekend, PR probably is not the right career for you.

At the same time you have to be disciplined about organising your time so you can manage a decent work/life balance. You have certainly got to be flexible, as you never quite know what each day will bring, no matter how much you plan ahead!

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

Doing great work for clients, which is acknowledged by them is always fulfilling. At the same time, seeing our advice or work actually make a difference in terms of the desired outcome for the client is also very rewarding. Working with a team of people that are positive, keen to learn and willing to go the extra mile for the company and our clients is also key. We are lucky to have an incredibly bright, talented and diverse team here at Grayling, and a really positive and respectful culture – which is actually not as common as it should be, agency-side.

What do you think is the secret to successful leadership?

Leaders should not only be prepared to take responsibility and make difficult decisions, but they should also empower their teams, rather than micro-manage them. Being approachable and doing, not just talking, is also so important. Providing clear guidance on what is expected of your team and what the company is trying to achieve is also vital. People need to understand what they are working towards, and how the business is performing. I try to encourage colleagues to come forward with ideas and, if necessary, question things that they don’t feel are quite right. Everyone should have a voice and feel they are valued and respected.

What advice would you offer to someone looking to start a career in media in the UAE?

Read a lot. make sure you understand the media landscape across the country and develop your writing skills either in Arabic or English (or both, if possible!). Get creative with your job applications, and be tenacious. Do not just email over your CV. Do your research on the firm before contacting them and find out what they are working on – and think through how you can actually help them in a way that will get you noticed. It is all about getting your foot in the door. Once your foot is in the door and you do a good job, you will be up and away.

In The Hot Seat – Jerome Mouthon

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Founder of Buzzeff, Jerome Mouthon, tells Team TMN about his views on the media industry in the region, as well as the things that he believes make a successful leader…

Name: Jerome Mouthon

Age: 45

From: France

Current Job Title: Founder of Buzzeff

When did you first arrive in Dubai?
I’ve been here since 2013, when we first opened a Buzzeff office in Dubai, after establishing the company in Morocco in 2011. I split my time between both locations, in order to oversee the business in the region. Dubai has opened up so many opportunities for Buzzeff – it’s a very exciting market and I’m glad to be a part of its dynamic advertising industry.

Where did you work prior?
I have been a serial entrepreneur for approximately 20 years and initially founded JMO and Clarsys Corp in the computer services industry in Europe. Those start-ups were sold in 2002 to Firststream, a Pan-European group, and I moved to North Africa later that year. I then founded Sysnek Media Group (offshoring web & business processing outsourcing), which successfully merged to become part of the Finatech Group in 2008. In 2010, I was strongly involved with Solorun investment fund, which was an incubator for internet start-up companies. Finally, in January 2011 I founded Buzzeff Corp MEA.

What were your first impressions of the media industry in the Middle East?
When I first began working in the Middle East in 2012, I was impressed with the development of the media industry as well as the vast number of international publications that had moved to the region. The quality of journalism here is on a similar level to other key playing markets, especially as the Middle East is becoming a hub for businesses in a variety of industries, including media.

Has your opinion changed much?
If anything, my opinions have been solidified, with news outlets such as Sky News Arabia and Khaleej Times having established themselves as leaders in the region. Furthermore, the growth of the industry has been tremendous, with more agencies and better quality publications starting up as well as more creative and exciting advertising campaigns being run.

Tell us about your current role…
As the Founder & Chairman of Buzzeff, I oversee the company’s growth strategy in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region while driving expansion in specific markets such as those in Saudi Arabia (KSA) and the Ivory Coast. This is achieved by partnering and building relationships with publishing houses and advertising agencies to ensure we are continuously growing our premium inventory at scale and providing a wider demographic of audience to view the targeted adverts.

What challenges do you face?
The challenges I face are similar to those faced by most fast-paced companies in the industry. The environment and technology is constantly changing, the competition is tough and it is often difficult to educate the market about outstreaming advertising opportunities. In addition, usual business challenges also apply including general personnel management, cash management, customer satisfaction management and more. It is thanks to the help of my team, that
I am able to manage all of these elements.

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?Firstly, I find it extremely rewarding that the business is up, running and growing at a promising rate. My day is made when we receive positive feedback from clients who are happy with our service because the technology has made their brand’s advertising more effective. Also, the team’s hard work is something I deeply appreciate because their efforts have helped the organisation grow; it is highly rewarding to watch their skill sets and careers develop.

What do you think is the secret to successful leadership?
Leadership is not about capabilities, leadership is about responsibility. It requires good judgment, predictability acumen and the ability to make effective decisions, deliver results and lead by example.

What advice would you offer to someone looking to start a career in media in the UAE?
The constant growth of businesses in the UAE brings forth many opportunities to start a career, especially in the media industry. I would advise people entering the market to do their homework and become well-acquainted with publishing houses, agencies and most importantly, with consumer trends – the better you understand what makes the consumer tick, the more value you will be able to add as you enter the industry.

What do you think of the quality of media publications in the region?
The quality of reporting in the Middle East is of a very high standard with many of the reputable publications. However, I would also like to see more start-up magazines with great writing and reporting, as well as unique story ideas that showcase different perspectives.

In your opinion, what makes a marketing campaign successful?
For an audience to truly engage with a marketing campaign and in order to make it successful, a well crafted story, context and good narrative is necessary. Targeting campaigns through the right channels is also key, you need to research and know where your audience is consuming content.

Would you rather be contacted by phone or email?
I like both, unless I’m traveling and am affected by time zone differences. Generally, e-mails are the best form of communicating while I’m on a flight. Otherwise, I enjoy the discipline of sharing a short memo after a business call for follow-up needs.

Work calls via landline, mobile or both?
Either, as long as they bring business opportunities! I also enjoy daily contact via social media networks.

Describe yourself in five words…
An emotionally intelligent, communicative, entrepreneurial individual.

What’s your most overused saying?
Let’s try it or do it first. The meeting and the process can come later.

Five things you can’t live without?
Family, my close friends, connected smartphone, multicoloured sport shoes and entrepreneurship.

On a more personal note, what agency online faux-pas make your ‘digital’ self cringe?
Brands are being too generic with advertising and not treating their targeting methods with an individual approach. Content needs to be created with clear messaging and relevance so that the consumer will be more inclined to it. The core creative idea of the ad should be short, aesthetic and musical.

If you could change one thing about media in the UAE, what would it be?
I would create a wider exchange between parties. Advertisers are busy with their business, agencies are focusing on optimisation and publishers and other third parties are also dispersed. Getting all of them around the same table more often and in a qualitative way would definitely be beneficial to all, including consumers’ audiences.

How do you see media changing in the UAE in the coming years?
I see a larger push for publishers to go online, with an increased digital and social presence. As a result, I think there will be more digital adverts and campaigns in order to reach a larger and more targeted audience. The GCC region has a high potential for premium inventory growth.

In The Hot Seat – Haneen Odeh

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Haneen Odeh, Founder of themakeupeditor.com, tells TMN about her website and how it came to fruition, as well as her advice for people looking to start a career in media… 

Name: Haneen Odeh        

Age: 29                         

From: Jordan                

Current Job Title: Founder of themakeupeditor.com

When did you first arrive in Dubai?
When I was too young to remember!

Where did you work prior?
Before starting my beauty website – www.themakeupeditor.com – I was the Fashion and Beauty Editor at Marie Claire Arabia.

What were your first impressions of the media industry in the Middle East?
When I first started working in the media industry, I didn’t think much of it. 

Has your opinion changed much?
Being exposed to media professionals from outside the Middle East through my career, has made me realise how much development and improvement we need to put into the industry for it to start competing with the international markets.

Is the website a full time job or part time passion for you?
Writing features for themakeupeditor.com is a full time job as well as a passion for me. 

Tell us about themakeupeditor.com…
themakeupeditor started as a way of collating all of my beauty knowledge in one place. My friends would always ask me for reviews of certain products, where to buy them or what types of products they should be buying and I decided that it wouldn’t be a bad idea to just put this information out there, in case other people have similar questions. I think that more people rely on reviews and experiences rather than advertising when it comes to beauty and so that’s what I’m trying to achieve with themakeupeditor.com; a place for honest reviews, where people can feel comfortable asking for advice. 

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
Seeing how happy people are when they feel beautiful and confident. Sometimes it’s as simple as finding the perfect lipstick or using a new hair mask. 

What advice would you offer to someone looking to start a blog/career in the media industry?
It’s a tricky balance between written content and visual content. The more beautiful the pictures and visuals are, the more attractive your blog or website is. To be successful though, you must always ensure the written content has value. Be original and always write your own content, never copy and paste everything you receive because that doesn’t make you any different from the thousands of other blogs out there. 

How do you find PRs in the region?
Overall there is definitely room for improvement! However there are some really great, creative agencies in the region, so it’s important to do your research and find the right one to work with!

What’s your pet PR peeve?
A lack of originality. For most events, collaborations and interviews it’s the same people, the same content and the same questions. Instead of developing and focusing on collaborations with fresh faces and up and coming bloggers. This is why the rest of the world keeps coming up with new influencers and we don’t. 

Do you accept press material from PRs?
Yes of course but only with no strings attached. If I like the product, I’ll write about it but I wont write about it only because it was sent to me. Also on a more important note, I always give honest reviews! 

How would you rather be contacted at work
Email. I travel a lot, so it’s the best way to reach me.

What’s your most overused saying?
Ugh.

Five things you can’t live without?
Wifi, sunglasses, my iphone, my family and lip balm. 

If you could change one thing about media in the UAE, what would it be?
I would have a little less recycling of content. I would like to see a little bit more investigative journalism, regardless of the subject matter. A little bit more of pushing the boundaries. I think the region is now hungry for originality.

In The Hot Seat – Tala Samman

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Tala Samman of myfashdiary.com tells TMN about how her blog has evolved and what she thinks of Dubai’s growing media landscape…

Name: Tala Samman

Age: 25

From: Syrian/American

Current Job Title: Editor of myfashdiary.com / DJ

When did you first arrive in Dubai?
When I was little – I’ve grown up in this city!

Where did you work prior?
I worked at Tom Ford’s headquarters in London, as well as at Grazia Magazine and with Halston’s Celebrity dressing department in NYC while I was studying at university. Then, in 2012, I joined a Conde Nast title, Style.com/Arabia, as Fashion Editor, before I decided to turn my blog into my full time job.

What were your first impressions of the media industry in the Middle East?
The media industry in Dubai is tiny – everyone knows everyone!

Has your opinion changed much?
It’s slowly growing, but it’s still a much smaller market compared to other major cities.

Is blogging your full time job or a part time passion?
It’s pretty much a full time job!

Tell us about myfashdiary.com…
Back in 2009, myfashdiary.com was the first blog to come out of the UAE. At that time, I was a student at the London College of Fashion and the blog purely covered fashion. Seven years down the line, I’ve matured and so has my blog – it’s now more of a lifestyle portal, a curated guide to fashion, beauty, travel and food.

What’s the most rewarding part of blogging?
Getting the opportunity to inspire people. I love hearing my readers share how my blog has helped them – whether it encouraged them to take the leap and do something they love, or saved them when they needed recommendations.

Which international Bloggers inspire you?
I don’t know if they necessarily inspire myfashdiary, because I think diversity is key to the blogging world and it’s one of the reasons I love it. But a few of my favorite blogs include because I’m addicted and Man Repeller.

What advice would you offer to someone looking to start a blog/career in the media industry?
Don’t start it for the wrong reasons. Ask yourself ­– do you have something new and original to share with the world?

What do you think of the quality of media publications in the region?
In all honesty, I buy nearly every UK and US magazine on my iPad or in print. In Dubai, I don’t buy more than two or three a month. The content is getting better, but I like to read a magazine and get inspired; you don’t get too much of that here.

How do you find PRs in the region?
Like any city or market, we have some great PR agencies and some not so great ones!

What’s your pet PR peeve?
Whatsapping me for work. I respond to my emails within 24 hours, you don’t need to send me Whatsapp messages!

Do you accept press material from PRs?
Yes, but when I write about something, it’s going to have to be beyond whatever is in that press release.

How would you rather be contacted?
I would rather be contacted by email, please.

What’s your most overused saying?
 ‘I mean…’

Five things you can’t live without?
Iphone, iPad, coffee, my family and music.

If you weren’t in your current role, what would you be doing?
Working at a school!

If you could change one thing about media in the UAE, what would it be?
 I’d make a rule against copying press releases.

How do you see online journalism/blogging changing in the UAE in the coming years?
The media industry is getting a lot more competitive, so hopefully magazine/blog content will become much stronger than it currently is. 

What would be the next step for you (would you look to launching a publication, collaborating with any brands/media etc.)?
I started DJ-ing over a year ago, so the foreseeable future will be spent focusing on music as well as myfashdiary.com.

In The Hot Seat – Annah Jacob

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Host of Pearl 102 FM’s after-school show Annah Jacob, tells TMN about growing up with regional media and how important she considers nurturing home grown talent and creativity…

Name: Annah “Banana” Jacob               

Age: 33                          

From: India (born in Dubai)               

Current Job Title: Radio Presenter for Pearl 102 – children’s radio

When did you first arrive in Dubai?

I was born here!And I’ve been here ever since.

Where did you work prior?

My media career predominantly included presenting for Dubai One (TV) and Virgin Radio Dubai. Chances are you will have seen me waving a microphone around most parts of the UAE!

What were your first impressions of the media industry in the Middle East?

I was raised in Dubai so I grew up reading children’s supplements like Young Times (Khaleej Times) and Junior News (Gulf News) as well as watching a variety of children’s TV shows and cartoons across Channel 33 (now known as Dubai One). Even though it was limited, every bit of media back then was all-encompassing and had a little something for every member of the family.

Has your opinion changed much?

We’re certainly spoiled for choice now, but, print and broadcast media in the UAE these days does seem to have the same type of content hashed out in multiple ways ­­– which is why I genuinely appreciate homegrown publications and shows. It’s nice to have locally-produced content that capitalises on the talent pool that we have right here in our own backyard. We could also do with more content for children in the UAE.

Tell us about your current role…

I’m known as Annah Banana to children (and most grown-ups) and I host the after-school show from 3pm – 6pm on Pearl 102 FM.

What challenges do you face?

Presenting and producing a radio show by yourself is quite hectic. There’s researching content to keep your target audience coming back for more, preparing all of the audio elements needed for the show, managing the desk (and making sure the station doesn’t go off air), fulfilling deliverables to the sponsors, booking guests and finally, managing a group of children on air is a whole different ball game compared to adults. I’m usually tuckered out after a show – but seeing their faces all lit up is worth it!

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

The look of glee when kids (and grown ups) turn around and go “You’re Annah Banana?!” Yes, I love the recognition!

What advice would you offer to someone looking to start a career in media in the UAE?

I was fortunate to receive a break when I auditioned for Dubai One back in 2009. Times and trends have changed however and one no longer needs to limit themselves to traditional platforms or even the norms of how things are done. My biggest advice would be to think outside the box and aim to create the next big thing in media.

How do you find PRs in the region?

I genuinely don’t have an issue with PRs in the region, maybe it’s because I don’t know any better! I’m usually good at sending a quick response to thank them for their email or alternatively point out why their press release or media invite isn’t relevant to me, or my work.

What’s your pet PR peeve?

If they continue to send press releases or media invites when I’ve pointed out that they’re not relevant to me or my work!

What advice can you offer PRs seeking coverage on your show?

Don’t just change the name of the recipient on your mass broadcast – customise your email to highlight why your client or product is relevant to me, my show or the station! Otherwise, I will gloss over and hit NEXT.

How would you describe yourself at work?

My at-work personality isn’t too dissimilar from my on air personality. I like to exude positivity and pass that kind of happy energy to people I work with. I like to walk in with a smile on my face, say hello to everyone by name and then sit down to get started with purpose.

Describe yourself in five words…

Little person with a large personality. (That ‘a’ doesn’t count)

What’s your most overused saying?

Treat people the way you would want them to treat you – unless you want to be treated like dirt!

Five things you can’t live without?

I’m not attached to anything I can’t give up – family and friends not included, of course!

If you weren’t in your current role, what would you be doing?

If I wasn’t a Presenter, I could picture myself being a makeup artist. I already quite enjoy doing makeovers on my friends!

If you could change one thing about media in the UAE, what would it be?

Both TV and radio stations need to support and nurture homegrown talent and locally-produced content. They may not be commercially viable at the start, but neither were some of the biggest shows or artists that we have today!

How do you see media changing in the UAE in the coming years?

I think it will definitely become more digital.

If you could have one work wish granted, what would it be?

To host and produce my own TV talk show with no censorship!

What is your favourite form of media (i.e; TV, radio, print)?

TV will always be my first love because that’s how I got into the business, plus, I’m all about body language. Having said that, radio has definitely added a whole new dimension to my skills as a Presenter!

 

 

 

In The Hot Seat – Helen Farmer

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The Mothership’s Founder Helen Farmer tells TMN her views on the UAE’s ever-changing media landscape, offers advice to others looking to start blogging and talks about how she sees blogging evolving in the Middle East…

Name: Helen Farmer

Age: 33

From: Northumberland, UK

Current Job Title: I’m the Founder of parenting blog The Mothership (themothershipdxb.com), as well as a freelance Writer, Editor and Radio Presenter.

When did you first arrive in Dubai?January 2007

Where did you work prior?In the UK I was in broadcasting, print and PR before moving to Dubai to work for Explorer Publishing as a Writer and Deputy Editor of their guide books. I then went to Motivate Publishing as Deputy Editor of What’s On, before launching and editing good magazine which I’ve now being doing since 2013.

What were your first impressions of the media industry in the Middle East?How nice everyone was. When I arrived it was even more social than it is now, with a lot of people from both media and PR going out almost every night.

Has your opinion changed much?
It has matured a lot on both sides, with fewer fresh graduates and more experienced talent. Now with cool, home grown titles, international magazines and bigger agencies, we’re starting to see more collaborations rather than the standard press release model, which is great. And the UAE is finally starting to catch up with digital.

Is blogging your full time job or a part time passion?
A bit of both! It’s a part time job, but a full time passion.

Tell us about your blog…
I started The Mothership last year, when my daughter was six months old. I simply wanted to connect with other new mums, through honest, real posts about the good, bad and downright mind-blowing truths of parenting in the UAE. I fear I might have put some women off pregnancy…

The Mothership then grew to become a Facebook page and recently I had the website rebranded and redesigned to make it more user-friendly, as well as having the capacity to include reviews, news and recommendations.

I now work with brands that I admire, have held workshops to support other working mums and have built a great community.

What’s the most rewarding part of blogging?
When another mum comments saying “Yes! Me too! Thank you.” Motherhood can be really lonely at times and I truly appreciate that moment of realisation and connection, when my followers share their own similar experiences.

Which international Bloggers inspire you?
I love Joanna Goddard from Cup of Jo, who mixes stylish inspiration with normal living and Sarah Turner from The Unmumsy Mum, who made it acceptable for mothers to admit that parenting isn’t always cuddles and candyfloss – it’s frustrating and often very messy.

What advice would you offer to someone looking to start a blog? 
Write from your heart and don’t try to be someone you’re not. I’m more high street than high fashion, couldn’t offer makeup tips to save my life and definitely shouldn’t be sharing recipes, but people understand what I’m really about. Start writing and you’ll find your tribe.

Do you accept press material from PRs?
After being in magazines in the UAE for more than six years I’m on a few press lists! I’ll always check out something relevant, but am more responsive when a PR gets in touch with a personalised suggestion for collaboration.

How would you rather be contacted?
I prefer email, and can be reached at Helen@themothershipdxb.com

Describe yourself in five words…
Working mum. A bit tired.

What’s your most overused saying?
“Have you heard about that new… ?”

Five things you can’t live without?
Family, phone, giant CamelBak water bottle, BBC television and the beach.

How do you see online journalism/blogging changing in the UAE in the coming years?
If bloggers are monetising a site or social feed, there needs to be some form of regulation in terms of sharing their numbers and data. This is so new for the UAE, that some people (no names) mislead potential clients and it can have a negative effect on those who are more transparent.

What would be the next step for you as a blogger?
I’m planning to hold further events and workshops after the summer, as well as continue to work with more brands that are in line with my values and really benefit my followers.