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Communicate launches first book

Communicate, a Middle Eastern magazine for the communication industry, has had its first book published. The first in a special collection series from the title and its publisher Mediaquest, the book is titled De-Commiditising the Ad Industry: How Ad Agencies Can Re-Invent Themselves and Enjoy Exponential Growth, and is penned by Ahmad Abu Zannad, Regional Strategy Director, Leo Burnett MENA. It will examine current challenges facing the communications sector, and seek to find solutions to ensure a bright future and will be distributed with Communicate’s October issue.

“Although there have been several assessments of the current status of the advertising industry, there hasn’t been a comprehensive overview that forensically analyses where agencies are today,” says Nathalie Bontems, Publisher, Mediaquest. “Ahmad Abu Zannad’s new book changes all that with its in-depth critique, its detailed assessment of the areas of concern and its structures reasoning for the way forward.”

 

twofour54 and ADMAF to partner

twofour54 has renewed its partnership with the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation (ADMAF) for a sixth consecutive year, in an effort to support creative and cultural industries in the UAE, as well as nurture skills development for the media sector. Both parties have signed a Letter of Cooperation signifying a mutual interest to collaborate on programmes in various disciplines of media and creativity.

The two organisations will team up to develop joint activities that foster growth, development and awareness of media as well as the creative and cultural industries in the UAE, with a focus on young adult Emiratis and the wider Emirati community. The partnership will also establish a new mechanism for effective sharing of information amongst the filmmaking community, aiming to support emerging and established Emirati film-makers.

“Our partnership with ADMAF plays a significant role in supporting our mission to nurture young talent and equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary to lead successful careers in the media industry,” says Noura Al Kaabi, CEO , twofour54. “The agreement will provide talented individuals with access to twofour54’s unique offerings and services, helping to sustainably grow our local media industry.”

Hoda Al Khamis-Kanoo, Founder, ADMAF, adds “ADMAF and twofour54 share an unwavering commitment to investing in the creative and cultural industries of Abu Dhabi. Through collaborations that spawn media, the comic arts and film – in both training and practice – together, we are sowing the seeds of creativity and innovation among the next generation.  This Letter of Cooperation affirms the strong bonds between our organisations and gives welcome momentum to further joint initiatives in future.”

Susan Clowes joins Omnia

Branding and digital communications company Omnia has welcomed Susan Clowes to the role of Client Services Director for Digital Projects. Susan has over eight years of experience in Media, previously working as a Digital Strategist for H+K Strategies across MENA, Australia and India and, more recently, as in-house eCommerce Director for Dubai-based West LA boutique. As Client Services Director for Digital Projects, Susan will be fostering valuable client relationships as well as ensuring that projects are delivered to a high standard and that Omnia’s commercial objects are met. She will be working alongside Hollie Thomson, Director of Public Relations.

“Back working agency side and having joined Omnia’s renowned team, I’m looking forward to being at the forefront of digital developments for some of the largest and best known brands in the region,” says Susan.

Hollie adds, “Our integrated approach here at Omnia is key. Working together we will ensure the highest standards of strategic direction for creative digital and editorial projects. With Susan’s experience, we aim to help drive digital innovation in the region.”

 

Katie Coleman joins Motivate

Katie Coleman has joined Motivate Publishing as Sales Manager for The Week magazine in the Middle East. Joining the company from London, Katie most recently worked for Media Ten, where she was Advertising Sales Manager for Grand Designs Magazine and responsible for advertising on all platforms across the brand. In her new role, Katie will be looking after all advertising opportunities across the weekly, world affairs title.

“I am very excited about joining the Motivate team,” says Katie. “I am looking forward to getting out and meeting all of my clients and getting to know them individually. This will enable me to have a good understanding of their goals and objectives which will in turn allow me to use my knowledge of the publishing industry to create effective campaigns and see great results.”