Latest news with #AliaAlSuwaidi
Sharjah 24
8 hours ago
- Business
- Sharjah 24
SGCA announces partnerships with CSO Network, Asia House, AAP
The list of partners includes the Chief Sustainability Officers Network (CSO Network), a leadership platform focused on corporate sustainability; Asia House, a think tank specialising in driving commercial and political engagement between Asia, the Middle East, and Europe and the Alliance for African Partnership (AAP), a collaborative initiative supporting development across Africa Led by Michigan State University and African institutions. Through these partnerships, specialised categories have been introduced, with each partner nominating entities or initiatives it deems most deserving based on SGCA's criteria and its area of expertise. Best Communication Practices Dealing with Development Advances (CSO Network) Presented in partnership with the CSO Network, the award for 'Best Communication Practices Dealing with Development Advances' category recognises outstanding communication strategies implemented by government, private, or international organisations to address environmental, food security, and sustainable development challenges. Eligible campaigns must creatively use the latest technologies, such as artificial intelligence, data analysis, and digital media, to foster awareness, influence behaviour, and generate tangible, lasting results. Topics may include environmental protection, food security, and sustainable consumption. Award for Outstanding Development & Cultural Communication (Asia House & AAP) Presented in partnership with Asia House and AAP, the 'Award for Outstanding Development & Cultural Communication' award honours regional initiatives that use communication to drive tangible, inclusive, and sustainable change. This category includes two distinct subcategories, with 'Excellence in Communication for Sustainable Development' accredited by Asia House, recognises communication-driven initiatives from Southeast Asia that foster economic, social, cultural, or environmental progress. Eligible projects should show clear, measurable results in improving education, healthcare, environmental practices, or community resilience. Collaboration and the creative use of traditional and digital media to unite communities are central evaluation factors. The second subcategory in collaboration with AAP and its academic and research partners across Africa, is the 'Excellence in Communication for Food Security and Quality of Life' which acknowledges communication programmes that have made a measurable difference in rural development, agriculture, and food systems. Submissions should demonstrate how the initiative empowered farmers or youth, increased awareness around food security, and implemented innovative methods to create lasting community impact. Driving communication that transforms communities Commenting on the newly formed international partnerships, Her Excellency Alia Al Suwaidi, Director of SGMB, said: 'Communication is no longer just about delivering messages, it is a force for change that strengthens social cohesion and advances humanitarian goals. The new categories highlight communication models addressing global challenges like food security, environmental sustainability, and cultural inclusion and aim to create new opportunities for impactful communication to gain visibility and influence.' "We are proud to partner with the SGCA on the 'Best Communication Practices Dealing with Development Advances' award," said Dr. Yasar Jarrar, CSO Network Secretary General. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to spotlighting how strategic communication can accelerate sustainability and innovation. At CSO Network, we believe that the right narrative has the power to transform development outcomes and this award will honor those who are shaping the future through bold, effective, and visionary communication." Michael Lawrence OBE, Chief Executive at Asia House, said: 'Asia House is proud to partner with SGCA 2025 to spotlight the vital role communication plays in shaping inclusive and sustainable development. By recognising initiatives that foster economic and social progress across Southeast Asia, we aim to promote collaboration and inspire innovation to tackle the region's most pressing challenges.' 'During SGCA 2025, the important role of communication in advancing food security and improving quality of life across Africa will be highlighted, said Titus Awokuse, Vice Provost and Dean International Studies and Programs, Michigan State University & SGCA Conference Speaker. 'Effective communication empowers communities, fosters knowledge sharing, and supports sustainable rural development, which are key elements for creating positive change on the continent.'
Gulf Today
5 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Today
‘From Sharjah, We Begin' podcast training starts
The seventh edition of 'Ithmar,' a youth media training programme by the Sharjah Press Club (SPC), launched on Monday with a renewed focus on podcasting as a creative platform for young voices. This year's edition targets children and teenagers aged 10 to 15 who have an interest in media communication and audio storytelling. As part of the programme, participants will develop and produce episodes for a new podcast titled 'From Sharjah, We Begin,' with ideas generated during interactive brainstorming sessions held before the start of the programme. This allows participants to shape the direction and content of the podcast. Running until July 24, the initiative aims to build self-confidence, strengthen local identity, and develop participants' communication and public speaking skills. The youth will work together to produce podcast episodes that are age-appropriate and content-driven, while following a structured production timeline. This initiative offers a hands-on training platform that enables young participants to express their ideas and experiences in a professional media format. Alia Al Suwaidi, Director of the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB), stressed the importance of equipping children and youth with media skills, especially through tools that reflect how the industry is evolving. She said that preparing the next generation and enabling them to engage in practical experiences, such as podcasting, is a key step in helping them express themselves professionally and responsibly. Al Suwaidi noted that Ithmar is part of SGMB's wider efforts to support emerging talent by introducing them to platforms that allow for self-expression and skill building in a supportive environment. The seventh edition, she added, builds on the outcomes of previous editions, with a particular emphasis on audio media, which has become an increasingly important space for positive influence. Al Suwaidi said that involving children in podcast production gives them a real-world experience in creating content that reflects their realities and is relevant to their communities. The first week of training covers a range of voice and presentation skills, including microphone confidence, tone control, clarity in pronunciation, and storytelling. Participants also practise news reading, podcast introductions, and the difference between live recording and edited audio. Sessions include exercises on using positive, expressive language and engaging listeners through sound. Later in the week, participants move into interview techniques, active listening, and on-camera presence, with a full podcast simulation to close out the week. By the end of the programme, participants are expected to understand how to take an idea from concept to final recording and to work as a team to produce a complete podcast episode. SPC continues to update and expand the 'Ithmar' programme to meet the interests of young people, providing them the tools to take part in shaping the future of media locally and internationally. Earlier, the inaugural week of the second edition of the 'Arab Podcast Programme,' a pathbreaking initiative organised by the Dubai Press Club, witnessed a distinguished group of content creators and industry experts from across the Arab world sharing their insights with enthusiastic Arab youth eager to carve a niche within the fast-evolving digital media realm of podcasting. The accent on enabling young participants to find their feet as audio content creators – with established professionals sharing their creative vision, expertise, and technical knowledge – underscores the rapid growth of this vital sector and the increasing interest in podcasting as an influential and innovative media platform aligned with the trends of modern media. Launched on July 7 at the Dubai Press Club, the Arab Podcast Programme features five weeks of intensive training under the supervision of Charbel Issa, a certified trainer on Podeo, a leading podcasting platform in the Middle East and North Africa region. The training sessions are designed to offer participants a clear idea of fundamental concepts while they gain new skills through hands-on practical training modules. Hosting the second edition of the Arab Podcast Programme is part of the Dubai Press Club's sustained efforts to promote the growth of the Arabic podcasting industry and contribute to the development of a dynamic and evolving digital media landscape across the region. The initiative aligns with the rapid changes being witnessed in terms of digital content consumption patterns and aims to support a more active and influential Arab presence in one of the fastest-growing media segments worldwide.
Sharjah 24
15-02-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
SPC hosts media tour of Emirate's growth and culture
Iconic landmarks and projects visited The tour featured visits to Sharjah's most iconic landmarks and projects, including the Mleiha Wheat Farm, the Sharjah Lights Festival, archaeological sites, the Sharjah Art Biennial, and Sharjah Heritage Days. These visits showcased Sharjah's development, historical, and artistic initiatives, reflecting the emirate's commitment to sustainability, culture, heritage, and the arts. Strengthening media relations and sharing Sharjah's vision Her Excellency Alia Al Suwaidi, Director of the Sharjah Government Media Bureau, highlighted the bureau's dedication to strengthening media relations and sharing Sharjah's progressive development and cultural experiences globally. She emphasised that the tour was an excellent opportunity for journalists to explore Sharjah's identity, achievements, and future vision. Praise for Sharjah's vision and initiatives The media delegation praised the emirate's unique projects and initiatives, noting how they embody Sharjah's vision for sustainable development while preserving its cultural identity. They also acknowledged Sharjah's efforts in promoting the arts, sustainability, and heritage preservation, contributing to a deeper understanding of the emirate's journey and achievements. Focus on food security and sustainable agriculture The tour also focused on Sharjah's commitment to food security and sustainable agriculture, with a visit to the Mleiha Wheat Farm. The farm's innovative use of modern technologies, including AI-driven crop management and water-saving techniques, earned it the 'Future Readiness Mark,' recognising its contributions to food security. The delegation discussed how these projects help maintain environmental balance and contribute to the circular economy. Exploring Sharjah's rich history Sharjah's rich history was highlighted through visits to archaeological sites, such as the Mleiha Archaeological Site, showcasing the deep-rooted civilisations of the region. Efforts to preserve these sites for future generations were also discussed. Captivating light displays at Sharjah Lights Festival The Sharjah Lights Festival captivated the delegation with its stunning light displays, which blend creativity and art with local heritage. The festival has become a prominent global event, showcasing artistic excellence. Insights from the Sharjah Art Biennial The visit to the Sharjah Art Biennial offered insights into contemporary art, where the media interacted with artists and explored important cultural and social themes. Preserving Emirati and Arab folk heritage Finally, the Sharjah Heritage Days event provided a glimpse into the emirate's commitment to preserving Emirati and Arab folk heritage, with its focus on traditional crafts, arts, and cuisine. The media expressed appreciation for the event's role in preserving and passing on cultural traditions to future generations.
