DUBAI, 25th September, 2023 (WAM) — H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority and Member of the Dubai Council, attended the opening session of the inaugural Youth Media Forum organised by the Dubai Press Club, which this year heralds the 21st edition of the Arab Media Forum.
Speaking on the occasion of the opening of the forum, Mona Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council, said, “The forum is a testament to the leadership's steadfast dedication to empowering youth in diverse fields, including media. This commitment has resulted in the launch of several pioneering initiatives aimed at nurturing and actively engaging young talent in achieving the leadership’s vision for media development. The forum was designed to inspire youth to raise standards of media excellence and actively contribute to shaping the future.”
“Under the directives of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Dubai Media Council’s strategy is centered on launching innovative initiatives to provide young media talent with new pathways to achieve excellence. We not only seek to raise their participation in the industry but also actively integrate them into the broader development process. The Council is committed to enhancing collaboration with both local and international media organisations to achieve this objective.”
During the opening session, which attracted 200 media students, Dr. Maitha Buhumaid, Director of the Dubai Press Club (DPC), delivered the opening remarks, emphasising the crucial role of youth in driving positive change and moulding the future.
Dr. Buhumaid highlighted the support of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, evidenced in his directives to establish an exclusive platform for the youth within the media landscape, which in turn is inspired by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to place youth at the vanguard of efforts to shape a bright future for the nation.
The inaugural session underscored the importance of involving young minds in any discussions pertaining to the future of media, signalling a shift towards more inclusive and youth-driven narratives. The forum aims to provide a platform for young media professionals to share inspiring success stories, imbibe valuable lessons, and take their first steps towards shaping the media landscape of tomorrow.
One of the event's highlights, the Youth Media Retreat provided a stage for young voices to be heard, giving them the confidence to expand on their ideas, visions, and suggestions for the future of media.