Today's Edition
SARA AL ZAABI (ABU DHABI)
The first cohort of the National Media Programme for Empowering People of Determination said the programme marks a turning point in their professional lives, equipping them with the essential skills to become influential voices and active contributors to society.
Jointly launched by the Zayed Authority for People of Determination, the National Media Authority and TRENDS, the programme equips participants with professional media skills through specialised training, field experience and practical placements.
A ceremony held at the headquarters of the Zayed Authority for People of Determination celebrated the graduates’ achievements. Among those present at the event were Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Authority; Abdullah Abdul Aali Al Humaidan, Secretary General of Zayed Authority for People of Determination; Dr Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, Chairman of TRENDS Group; several officials and media professionals; as well as the graduates' families and programme partners.
Thirty-five participants were honoured at the ceremony.
Speaking to Aletihad, Nisrin Al Harmoodi, Advisor at Zayed Authority for People of Determination and Director of the National Media Programme for Empowering People of Determination, said the initiative reflects the organisation’s commitment to empowering people of determination across different sectors, particularly the media industry.
She said the programme offers specialised tracks in AI media, content writing, content creation and storytelling and television presenting and podcasting, with participants first completing introductory workshops on the UAE’s media landscape, legislation and industry fundamentals.
Al Harmoodi said more than 100 applicants were interviewed by representatives from the Zayed Authority for People of Determination, the National Media Authority and TRENDS Group.
“The first cohort started with 46 participants, and 35 successfully graduated after completing attendance requirements, practical training, projects and assessments.”
She said adapted learning materials, sign language interpretation and family support helped ensure every participant could benefit from the training.
Building Skills, Confidence and Impact
Also speaking to Aletihad, graduates highlighted the skills and confidence they gained through the programme.
Hamda Al Mansoori said the programme introduced participants to a range of media disciplines, including podcasting, storytelling, radio, television and presenting.
“We learned many new skills, particularly how to work in media and communicate effectively. I hope we can use what we learned to become influential voices and make a positive impact on society.”
Al Mansoori said she hopes to host her own programme focusing on awareness, family, education and community issues, while supporting other people of determination.
Laila Al Hosani said the programme helped her build confidence in front of the camera while developing practical skills in television presenting, podcasting and storytelling.
Al Hosani added that she hopes to build a successful career in media while representing the UAE positively and giving back to the country.
“The UAE has given us tremendous support and opportunities, and I see this as our opportunity to give back to our country, ourselves and everyone who has supported us.”
Dr Abdullah AlHammami, Family and Educational Consultant Specialist in Visual Impairment, and an award-winning author, said the programme transformed his understanding of the media industry.
“It completely changed my understanding of media. Before, we might have thought media was simply about picking up a microphone and speaking, but we discovered that it is much broader. It begins with writing and extends to delivery, presenting, editing, filming and many other skills that every content creator needs to communicate an influential message.”
Dr AlHammami said developing these skills allows people of determination to represent themselves, their communities and the UAE in a professional and positive way.
“The UAE has given us tremendous motivation and, particularly as people of determination, has empowered us. We, therefore, have a responsibility to represent the UAE, ourselves and our families in the best possible way.”
Ahmed Saleh Abdulrahim said the programme gave him valuable knowledge, practical experience and the confidence to pursue a career in media.
“The programme gave us confidence and encouraged us to engage with the media. Before joining, I was afraid of being in front of a camera, but I learned how to overcome that fear.”
Sultan Al Shamsi said the programme provided participants with valuable media skills, including the use of AI and the ability to distinguish credible information from misinformation.
Al Shamsi said being selected for the programme was both an honour and a responsibility, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to empowering people of determination.
