More related content on the BRIDGE
- Picture Panel 9 December 10:05 - 10:25AM
Chaos is the New Direction
Perfection is dead. Directors and actors explore how chaos, imperfection, and unpredictability have become the new creative language of cinema and content. From raw performances to messy realism, this session dives into why disorder now connects deeper than polish.
Explore by InstagramModerator
- Creator Economy Panel 9 December 12:00 - 12:15PM
Breaking Down the Creator Monetization Stack
The creator economy is set to exceed $500 billion by 2027, driven by over 50 million individuals building businesses on platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Patreon, according to Goldman Sachs. While brand deals remain dominant, creators are increasingly monetizing through subscriptions, affiliate marketing, merchandise, and direct-to-fan models. The UAE is at the forefront of this shift, with initiatives like the New Media Academy, 1 Billion Followers Summit, and regulatory exemptions contributing AED 2.5 billion to GDP in 2024. As monetization channels multiply and governments invest in creator-friendly infrastructures and supports, how can creators further grow revenue stacks to reflect their values, engage their communities, and support long-term growth?
Academy StageModerator
- Creator Economy Fireside 9 December 11:35 - 11:55AM
Gen Z, Gen Give: Philanthropy Through Youth and Story
Generation Z is reshaping philanthropy, blending personal storytelling with the reach of digital platforms to drive meaningful change. Rather than relying solely on donations, they use tools like TikTok and Instagram to amplify causes, build communities, and spark grassroots action. How might this shift toward participatory and transparent giving redefine the future of social impact?
Impact StageModerator
- Media Panel 8 December 5:40 - 6:10PM
The Art of Conversation
In a world defined by noise, speed, and polarization, meaningful dialogue has never been more essential—or more rare. This session brings together leading voices from media, culture, and public life to reflect on the craft of conversation: how empathy, curiosity, and listening can rebuild understanding in an age of constant broadcast. Through their experiences, they explore how dialogue can bridge divides, shape narratives, and remind us of our shared humanity.
Central StageSpeakers
- Picture Presentation 8 December 3:55 - 4:10PM
Why It’s Important for an Actor to Produce
Actors today sit at the front line of cultural influence, yet often remain distant from the decisions that shape the stories they tell. In this session, Egyptian actor and filmmaker Ahmed Magdy examines why stepping into the producer’s role is becoming essential for creators who want greater agency, artistic integrity, and long-term impact. Drawing on his trajectory from Egypt’s independent cinema movement to building Garage Art Production, Magdy explores how actors can catalyze new talent, strengthen local creative ecosystems, and drive a more intentional, sustainable future for storytelling.
Academy Stage - Music Panel 9 December 3:55 - 4:15PM
Own Your Audience and Rewrite the Rules
Grammy-winning artist Wyclef Jean and creator-economy pioneer Jaeson Ma break down how artists can finally take control in a system that hasn’t kept up. They’ll talk frankly about the broken economics of streaming, why the future belongs to those who own their fan relationships, and the tools that put creators back in charge of monetization and community.
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