More related content on the BRIDGE
- Technology Fireside 9 December 10:50 - 11:00AM
The Next Chapter of Connection
As technology redefines how we see, share, and connect, what comes next for human interaction? Join Hussein Freijeh for a conversation on the evolution of social platforms and the role of augmented reality in reconnecting us to our surroundings, our communities, and ourselves.
Forum Stage - Media Panel 8 December 2:25 - 2:45PM
How the Gulf and Africa Are Rewriting the Media Map
Africa and the Gulf are fast becoming two of the world’s most influential media hubs, building newsrooms, creator ecosystems, and digital platforms that reach hundreds of millions and increasingly shape global narratives. This session explores how broadcasters and digital-first operators across both regions scale coverage, expand cross-border bureaus, build culturally resonant formats, and grow loyal audiences in markets often misunderstood by global capital. We examine where international partners fit, how geopolitical context shapes storytelling, and how these rising hubs are redefining the media operating system of the Global South.
Impact StageSpeakers
- Media Panel 10 December 11:40AM - 12:10PM
Media Moneyball
The rules for media investment are shifting. New technologies, creator platforms, and community-led models are changing where capital flows and why. In this conversation, three early-stage investors share what they look for when backing founders in media, entertainment, and creator tech. They unpack their current investment theses, the trends they’re watching for 2026, and how creative vision, audience ownership, and smart business models can build companies that endure.
Central StageSpeakers
- Picture Speech 8 December 3:00 - 3:10PM
The Future of Streaming Monetization Models
As audiences fragment and attention becomes the ultimate currency, streaming platforms are rethinking how value is created and shared. This session explores the next phase of digital entertainment—from evolving subscription models and ad-supported hybrids to strategic partnerships between tech, media, and creators. What will define profitability in an era where engagement, not just viewership, drives growth?
Central Stage - Creator Economy Panel 9 December 4:15 - 4:40PM
Creators Go From Lights, Camera, to Business
The creator economy is transforming media, with top creators now rivaling traditional studios in both revenue and cultural influence. In 2024, MrBeast’s empire generated over $470 million across YouTube, Amazon Prime, and consumer products. As creators become the next generation of media moguls, what best practices define who rises to the top?
Explore by InstagramSpeakers
- Media Workshop 10 December 11:25AM - 12:05PM
The Future of News: Social Media Journalism
The workshop explores how social media is reshaping journalism, changing how news is reported, shared, and consumed. It examines the challenges of accuracy, credibility, and speed in the digital era while offering strategies to engage audiences and tell impactful stories across social platforms. Trainer: Fatima Mahmoud, The National
IMI Academy
