Latest news with #TRACCS
Zawya
14-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Athar Festival launches Maheerah Network to drive year-round empowerment for women in Saudi Arabia's Marcomms Industry
Built on three pillars – Maheerah Network, Maheerah Programme, and Maheerah Alumni – the Network will foster leadership, learning, and connection Powered by Publicis Groupe, Maheerah Network will support 26 existing alumni and aims to produce over 100 graduates by 2030 Riyadh – Saudi Arabia: Athar – Saudi Festival of Creativity, the largest gathering for the creative marketing industry in Saudi Arabia, has officially announced the launch of the Maheerah Network today at the Crowne Plaza Riyadh RDC Hotel & Convention. The initiative, powered by Publicis Groupe, is set to become a year-round platform dedicated to enabling, inspiring, and nurturing women in the creative marketing and communications industry in the Kingdom. The network will consist of three core pillars: Maheerah Network, Maheerah Programme, and Maheerah Alumni. Mohamed Al Ayed, Vice Chairman of Athar Festival and CEO of TRACCS, said: 'Saudi Arabia continues to make significant strides in women's empowerment and is firmly on track to achieving its Vision 2030 goals. As the Kingdom's foremost creative marketing event, Athar Festival recognizes its responsibility in advancing the participation and leadership of women in the industry. The launch of Maheerah Network is a result of our continued commitment to this endeavour. The growth potential of the local marcomms industry is immense, and the transformative journey of women from being participants to industry leaders and narrative shapers is well underway. At Athar Festival, we are happy and proud to play our part.' Bassel Kakish, Chief Executive Officer, Publicis Groupe Middle East & Turkey added: 'When we partnered with Athar Festival to bring Maheerah to life two years ago, we didn't anticipate the depth of response, or the powerful community that would grow from it. It quickly became clear that we were meeting a real need for women living and working in Saudi Arabia's marketing communications industry — a space to learn, connect, and thrive. In a market where the industry is already thriving, Maheerah has become a platform to further unlock the talent, ambition and leadership potential of women across the Kingdom. Now in its third year, the program has evolved into a year-round network, and we have shared ambitions to grow it into one of the strongest communities of women in Saudi Arabia, supporting and enabling the next generation of leaders in our industry.' Unveiling a roadmap that is set to expand over the next three years, the Maheerah Network is designed to be a long-term enabler for women in every stage of their career. The first of its kind for women in creative marcomms in Saudi Arabia, the initiative aims to establish an industry standard for leadership, empowerment, and continuous development. The journey begins with Maheerah Network, foundational series of year-round activities geared toward women from across the industry. Through online and offline events, access to exclusive insights, and learning opportunities such as webinars and networking meetups, it aims to build early confidence, capability, and community. The second pillar, the Maheerah Programme, is a high-level learning and development track for women in senior roles from across the industry. With its third iteration taking place during Athar Festival 2025 later this year in October, it will feature curated workshops, leadership coaching, and executive-level training designed to equip participants with the tools to step into strategic and leadership roles within the creative sector. Building on that, the Maheerah Alumni pillar creates an enduring network for graduates of past editions of the Maheerah Programme. Alumni will continue to benefit from tailored professional growth experiences including webinars, mentorship with industry leaders, and in-person gatherings. Leading by example across organisations such as NEOM, Nestle, STA, and more, members represent a growing cross-section of sectors including marketing, advertising, PR, and technology. Maheerah Network is an initiative by Athar Festival and powered by Publicis Groupe. About Athar – Saudi Festival of Creativity Athar - Saudi Festival of Creativity, presented by Motivate Media Group and TRACCS, is Saudi Arabia's foremost creative marketing event. Aligning with Saudi Vision 2030, Athar sets the stage for leaders, decision-makers, and emerging talent to connect, share insights, and drive creative endeavours across the Kingdom's burgeoning sectors.
Zawya
14-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Athar Festival launches Maheerah Network
Built on three pillars – Maheerah Network, Maheerah Programme, and Maheerah Alumni – the Network will foster leadership, learning, and connection Powered by Publicis Groupe, Maheerah Network will support 26 existing alumni and aims to produce over 100 graduates by 2030 Riyadh – Saudi Arabia: Athar – Saudi Festival of Creativity, the largest gathering for the creative marketing industry in Saudi Arabia, has officially announced the launch of the Maheerah Network today at the Crowne Plaza Riyadh RDC Hotel & Convention. The initiative, powered by Publicis Groupe, is set to become a year-round platform dedicated to enabling, inspiring, and nurturing women in the creative marketing and communications industry in the Kingdom. The network will consist of three core pillars: Maheerah Network, Maheerah Programme, and Maheerah Alumni. Mohamed Al Ayed, Vice Chairman of Athar Festival and CEO of TRACCS, said: 'Saudi Arabia continues to make significant strides in women's empowerment and is firmly on track to achieving its Vision 2030 goals. As the Kingdom's foremost creative marketing event, Athar Festival recognizes its responsibility in advancing the participation and leadership of women in the industry. The launch of Maheerah Network is a result of our continued commitment to this endeavour. The growth potential of the local marcomms industry is immense, and the transformative journey of women from being participants to industry leaders and narrative shapers is well underway. At Athar Festival, we are happy and proud to play our part.' Bassel Kakish, Chief Executive Officer, Publicis Groupe Middle East & Turkey added: 'When we partnered with Athar Festival to bring Maheerah to life two years ago, we didn't anticipate the depth of response, or the powerful community that would grow from it. It quickly became clear that we were meeting a real need for women living and working in Saudi Arabia's marketing communications industry — a space to learn, connect, and thrive. In a market where the industry is already thriving, Maheerah has become a platform to further unlock the talent, ambition and leadership potential of women across the Kingdom. Now in its third year, the program has evolved into a year-round network, and we have shared ambitions to grow it into one of the strongest communities of women in Saudi Arabia, supporting and enabling the next generation of leaders in our industry.' Unveiling a roadmap that is set to expand over the next three years, the Maheerah Network is designed to be a long-term enabler for women in every stage of their career. The first of its kind for women in creative marcomms in Saudi Arabia, the initiative aims to establish an industry standard for leadership, empowerment, and continuous development. The journey begins with Maheerah Network, foundational series of year-round activities geared toward women from across the industry. Through online and offline events, access to exclusive insights, and learning opportunities such as webinars and networking meetups, it aims to build early confidence, capability, and community. The second pillar, the Maheerah Programme, is a high-level learning and development track for women in senior roles from across the industry. With its third iteration taking place during Athar Festival 2025 later this year in October, it will feature curated workshops, leadership coaching, and executive-level training designed to equip participants with the tools to step into strategic and leadership roles within the creative sector. Building on that, the Maheerah Alumni pillar creates an enduring network for graduates of past editions of the Maheerah Programme. Alumni will continue to benefit from tailored professional growth experiences including webinars, mentorship with industry leaders, and in-person gatherings. Leading by example across organisations such as NEOM, Nestle, STA, and more, members represent a growing cross-section of sectors including marketing, advertising, PR, and technology. Maheerah Network is an initiative by Athar Festival and powered by Publicis Groupe. For more information, visit About Athar – Saudi Festival of Creativity Athar - Saudi Festival of Creativity, presented by Motivate Media Group and TRACCS, is Saudi Arabia's foremost creative marketing event. Aligning with Saudi Vision 2030, Athar sets the stage for leaders, decision-makers, and emerging talent to connect, share insights, and drive creative endeavours across the Kingdom's burgeoning sectors. For more information, please visit:
Campaign ME
13-05-2025
- Business
- Campaign ME
Athar Festival 2025 extends final deadline for content
Athar – Saudi Festival of Creativity has extended the final deadline for its speakers applications, now accepting submissions until 23 May 2025. The festival, which returns for its third edition from 21–22 October 2025 at JAX District – Diriyah Biennale Foundation in Riyadh, invites local and international voices from across the creative marketing industry to take the stage. Proposals can be submitted via the festival's website. Presented by Motivate Media Group and TRACCS, Athar Festival 2025 is set to build on the momentum of previous editions with a larger venue, broader content streams, and a sharpened focus on global collaboration. This year's edition is expected to host more than 3,000 attendees from across the marketing, advertising, media and communications industries – spanning brands, agencies, creative professionals and students. Positioned as a platform to showcase Saudi Arabia's emergence as a regional and global creative force, Athar Festival 2025 will feature more than 150 speakers, more than 80 brand activations, and expanded programming across three content stages. The event also introduces new additions aimed at enriching the attendee experience, including an all-new Talent Hub for emerging professionals, a dedicated startup exhibition space, and longer festival hours from 10 AM to 10 PM each day. 'As Saudi Arabia continues to push the boundaries of creative excellence in alignment with Vision 2030, Athar Festival remains a vital force in shaping the industry's future,' said Ian Fairservice, Chairman of Athar Festival and Managing Partner of Motivate Media Group. 'This year, we are expanding our global reach with international trade delegations and industry leaders. By connecting Saudi Arabia's creative industry with more markets, the festival will not only showcase the Kingdom as a talent hub but also create new pathways for collaboration and investment in the region's growing creative economy.' Building on the success of the 2024 edition, which drew more than 1,700 attendees, the 2025 festival will introduce four new content streams under its expanded format. The Creative Impact stream will focus on brand storytelling, advertising and marketing. Future Forward will address AI, machine learning, and data-driven marketing, while Screen & Influence will explore media distribution, influencer marketing, and content creation from an advertising lens. Luxury & Lifestyle will delve into marketing strategies across fashion, travel, hospitality and premium experiences. Mohamed Al Ayed, Vice Chairman of Athar Festival and CEO of TRACCS, said: 'Saudi Arabia is rapidly emerging as the region's leader in creative communications – essential for any future-ready nation. Athar Festival plays a pivotal role in shaping the industry by driving innovation, talent development and strategic collaborations. The 2025 edition, featuring new initiatives like the Talent Hub and a dedicated startup exhibition space, offers an unparalleled platform to challenge creative boundaries, celebrate creative excellence, and catalyse the Kingdom's creative economy.' In addition to the main conference agenda, the festival will also expand the Athar Awards, now aligned with the four newly introduced content streams. The awards will span two days: the first dedicated to celebrating individual and team excellence in Saudi Arabia, and the second recognising standout campaigns within the Kingdom's marketing and communications sector. The festival's agenda will include keynote sessions, workshops, immersive activations and curated networking opportunities. International trade delegations are also expected to participate, further integrating the Saudi creative economy with global players and partners. For more information or to submit a speaker proposal for Athar, visit
Campaign ME
08-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Campaign ME
Athar Festival 2025 to conclude with an extraordinary two-day celebration of creativity at Athar Awards
Athar, Saudi Festival of Creativity, the largest gathering of the creative marketing industry in Saudi Arabia, will conclude with the largest and most spectacular edition of Athar Awards to date. Submissions for Athar Awards 2025 officially open today, with 14 new additions bringing the total to over 30 categories, each spotlighting the growing constellation of campaigns, teams, and individual talent driving the Kingdom's creative momentum. Athar Awards will take place across two nights, reflecting its broader vision to champion creative excellence across both established disciplines and emerging frontiers. Saudi talent in the Individual categories will be recognised following day one of the festival at JAX District – Diriyah Biennale Foundation, while winners in the Campaign and Team categories will be honoured during a prestigious gala dinner on the festival's closing night. Ian Fairservice, Chairman of Athar Festival and Managing Partner of Motivate Media Group, said, 'Saudi Arabia's creative industry is capturing the world's attention with bold ideas, distinctive storytelling, and globally resonant work. Athar Awards are designed to harness and amplify that momentum, offering a platform that not only celebrates excellence but also propels it forward. As the creative output from the Kingdom grows more sophisticated and ambitious, these awards help showcase how Saudi creativity is perceived internationally — not just as promising, but as world-class. They mark a pivotal step in transforming recognition into long-term influence across the global creative economy.' Mohamed Al Ayed, Vice Chairman of Athar Festival and CEO of TRACCS, added, 'Last year's Athar Awards demonstrated that the spirit of Saudi innovation is well embedded and thrives across the creative marketing landscape. The fresh stories, perspectives, and bold creative approaches showcased by our winners and nominees — along with their impact on the Kingdom's creative economy and contributions to Vision 2030 — are all truly worth celebrating. Today, we are proud to say that the additional award categories have been thoughtfully introduced to reflect the expanding breadth and depth of our homegrown talent. As we look forward to the largest editions of Athar Festival and Athar Awards in October, we wish all prospective nominees the very best of luck.' Athar Awards 2025 boasts a dynamic mix of new Campaign and Team categories that spotlight innovation and creativity across a number of next-generation specialisations. Among the highlights is Best Artificial Intelligence/Augmented Reality Powered Campaign, which features cutting-edge campaigns that leverage smart technology to enhance engagement and impact. Best Fintech Solutions & E-commerce Campaign celebrates digital-first initiatives reshaping consumer experiences, while Best Video Storytelling Campaign recognises powerful visual narratives that elevate Saudi Arabia's creative voice. In the Team categories, additional titles include Startup of the Year and Production Team of the Year, which acknowledge collective achievement across execution, strategy, and innovation. The Individual categories place a renewed emphasis on leadership, influence, and transformative thinking. Disruptor of the Year celebrates boundary-pushing visionaries, while Influencer of the Year honours standout digital creators shaping conversations across platforms. Other additions include Creative Designer of the Year, Media Leader of the Year, and Young Creative of the Year — each highlighting the array of talents fuelling the Kingdom's creative sphere. Athar Festival 2025 is presented by Motivate Media Group and TRACCS. For the full list of Athar Awards 2025 categories, visit the official website (
Zawya
08-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Athar Festival 2025 to conclude with an extraordinary two-day celebration of creativity at Athar Awards
New categories to recognise creative excellence across AI, fintech, storytelling, leadership, design, and emerging talent Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Athar – Saudi Festival of Creativity, the largest gathering of the creative marketing industry in Saudi Arabia, will conclude with the largest and most spectacular edition of Athar Awards to date. Submissions for Athar Awards 2025 officially open today, with 14 new additions bringing the total to over 30 categories, each spotlighting the growing constellation of campaigns, teams, and individual talent driving the Kingdom's creative momentum. Athar Awards will take place across two nights, reflecting its broader vision to champion creative excellence across both established disciplines and emerging frontiers. Saudi talent in the Individual categories will be recognised following day one of the festival at JAX District – Diriyah Biennale Foundation, while winners in the Campaign and Team categories will be honoured during a prestigious gala dinner on the festival's closing night. Ian Fairservice, Chairman of Athar Festival and Managing Partner of Motivate Media Group, said: 'Saudi Arabia's creative industry is capturing the world's attention with bold ideas, distinctive storytelling, and globally resonant work. Athar Awards are designed to harness and amplify that momentum, offering a platform that not only celebrates excellence but also propels it forward. As the creative output from the Kingdom grows more sophisticated and ambitious, these awards help showcase how Saudi creativity is perceived internationally — not just as promising, but as world-class. They mark a pivotal step in transforming recognition into long-term influence across the global creative economy.' Mohamed Al Ayed, Vice Chairman of Athar Festival and CEO of TRACCS, added: 'Last year's Athar Awards demonstrated that the spirit of Saudi innovation is well embedded and thrives across the creative marketing landscape. The fresh stories, perspectives, and bold creative approaches showcased by our winners and nominees — along with their impact on the Kingdom's creative economy and contributions to Vision 2030 — are all truly worth celebrating. Today, we are proud to say that the additional award categories have been thoughtfully introduced to reflect the expanding breadth and depth of our homegrown talent. As we look forward to the largest editions of Athar Festival and Athar Awards in October, we wish all prospective nominees the very best of luck.' Athar Awards 2025 boasts a dynamic mix of new Campaign and Team categories that spotlight innovation and creativity across a number of next-generation specialisations. Among the highlights is Best Artificial Intelligence/Augmented Reality Powered Campaign, which features cutting-edge campaigns that leverage smart technology to enhance engagement and impact. Best Fintech Solutions & E-commerce Campaign celebrates digital-first initiatives reshaping consumer experiences, while Best Video Storytelling Campaign recognises powerful visual narratives that elevate Saudi Arabia's creative voice. In the Team categories, additional titles include Startup of the Year and Production Team of the Year, which acknowledge collective achievement across execution, strategy, and innovation. The Individual categories place a renewed emphasis on leadership, influence, and transformative thinking. Disruptor of the Year celebrates boundary-pushing visionaries, while Influencer of the Year honours standout digital creators shaping conversations across platforms. Other additions include Creative Designer of the Year, Media Leader of the Year, and Young Creative of the Year — each highlighting the array of talents fuelling the Kingdom's creative sphere. Athar Festival 2025 is presented by Motivate Media Group and TRACCS. For the full list of Athar Awards 2025 categories, visit the official website ( -Ends- About Athar – Saudi Festival of Creativity Athar - Saudi Festival of Creativity, presented by Motivate Media Group and TRACCS, is Saudi Arabia's foremost creative marketing event. Aligning with Saudi Vision 2030, Athar sets the stage for leaders, decision-makers, and emerging talent to connect, share insights, and drive creative endeavours across the Kingdom's burgeoning sectors. For more information, please visit:
