Shams News

Youth Participation Strengthens Sharjah’s Role as a Media Hub

“Shams Talks” Inspires Youth and Renews Media Perspectives at IGCF 2025

Sharjah, September 12, 2025:
Sharjah Media City (Shams) concluded its outstanding participation in the 14th edition of the International Government Communication Forum (IGCF), held on September 10–11 at Expo Centre Sharjah under the theme “Communication for Quality of Life.” The “Shams Talks” sessions stood out as a key highlight of the forum’s agenda, attracting significant interest from media professionals, content creators, and youth.

Shams Talks featured a series of inspiring discussions exploring the future of digital media and content creation. Speakers shared their experiences and success stories, presenting innovative perspectives on building sustainable digital identities and highlighting the vital role of young people in shaping the new media landscape.

Abdullah Al Sharhan, Manager of Creative Services at Shams, opened the series with a session titled “Media Content in Seconds,” where he discussed the importance of leveraging artificial intelligence in media production, demonstrating how AI can accelerate content creation and offer innovative solutions that enable creators to deliver messages more effectively and in record time.

In a session titled “What Do Young People Want?” speakers Marwan Al Shehhi and Mohammed Al Manaei, moderated by Abdullah Al Mazmi, Manager of Advertising and Promotion at Sharjah Media City, explored the aspirations of the new generation of content creators and how to meet their needs to strengthen their media presence and impact.

Content creator Shihab Al Hashmi led a session titled “How Do We Make Content Sustainable?” sharing practical insights on creating meaningful and long-lasting digital content beyond fast-consumption trends.

Meanwhile, Tariq Ghanem, program producer and content creator at Blinx, presented “How Trends Are Made,” held in collaboration with Blinx, revealing strategies behind viral content and mechanisms for digital reach.

Media personality and content creator Shahad Al Abdouli hosted “How Do We Create Content That Touches Hearts Before Minds?” offering her vision for emotionally resonant, human-centered storytelling.

Content creator Hafsa Mahiou presented “Small Beginnings Create Big Stories,” demonstrating how simple first steps can lead to inspiring success in the digital media world.

In “Storytelling That Changes Communities,” content creator Omar Abou Rob highlighted the power of narrative in raising public awareness and inspiring positive societal transformation.

The session “Generation of Sustainability: Youth Shaping a Greener Future,” held in collaboration with the Sharjah Youth Council, featured Dr. Mariam Bin Hadda, Council Chair, and Dr. Saud Mohammed Bayat, Vice Chair, moderated by media personality Ayoub Al Badri from the Influencer Hub. The session underscored the pivotal role of youth in advancing sustainability and shaping a more conscious and responsible environmental future.

Scriptwriter Mohammed Hassan Ahmed discussed in his session “Narratives in Content Creation” how creative storytelling can effectively raise awareness about vital issues such as food security and transform them into compelling narratives that resonate with audiences.

The talks concluded with Fatima Al Baloushi, member of the Influencer Hub, who delivered “Passion Creates a Message… and Impact Inspires Life,” highlighting how passion serves as the driving force behind meaningful media messages that create real human impact.

His Excellency Rashid Abdalla Al Obad, Director General of Sharjah Media City (Shams), said:

“Shams Talks provided an enriching platform for knowledge exchange and showcased the talents and creativity of young content creators, in alignment with our vision to empower new generations and enhance their role in shaping the media landscape. We reaffirm our commitment to supporting initiatives that expand creative horizons and strengthen Sharjah’s position as a leading hub for media and knowledge. We extend our sincere appreciation to all speakers and participants who contributed to the success of the talks, and to the audience whose engagement helped enrich the discussions.”

Through “Shams Talks,” Shams reaffirmed its commitment to empowering young content creators and offering dynamic platforms that expand their horizons in media and creativity, reinforcing Sharjah’s position as a global hub for media innovation and knowledge.

As part of its participation, Shams also showcased The Podcast Room, launched by Sharjah Media City, along with the interactive “Shams Talks” Podcast, which aims to enhance communication within the media sector. The podcast highlights major media and economic challenges and features interviews with officials, government representatives, experts, and prominent figures in media, communications, and business. It serves as a bridge for knowledge exchange with a strong focus on entrepreneurship in audio content creation and empowering emerging talent.