Post by : Badri Ariffin

The Creative Media Authority has triumphantly wrapped up the fifth edition of CNN Academy Abu Dhabi, further solidifying the city’s reputation as a prominent international hub for media education and talent development.

This three-week program assembled a diverse group of budding journalists and storytellers for rigorous, hands-on training in production, digital storytelling, and multiplatform journalism. The latest iteration focused on bridging the divide between academic teachings and real-world newsroom experience, stressing professional preparedness and industry interaction.

Introduction of the Academy's First Job Fair

A significant highlight of the 2025 edition was the launch of the academy's first-ever job fair, aimed at assisting participants in their transition from training to their professional journeys. This event brought together current students and alumni from past editions, providing them direct access to recruitment executives and decision-makers from top media and creative organizations.

Participants had the chance to engage in preliminary interviews, investigate internship opportunities, and network with industry leaders. Participating companies included MarketingEnds, Factor31, Edelman, Brunswick, Frontier25, Abu Dhabi Media Network, Starzplay, and Forbes Middle East, underscoring the program's robust industry integration.

Global Expert-Led Training Sessions

This edition featured a comprehensive lineup of workshops and training led by CNN anchors, correspondents, and technical experts, as well as global leaders and specialists in the field. These sessions tackled critical subjects such as ethical journalism, climate reporting, health communication, youth empowerment, and immersive storytelling.

Distinguished speakers included Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, President and CEO of Frontier25; His Excellency Dr Sultan Al Neyadi, UAE Minister of Youth; Dr Paul Spiegel, Director of the Johns Hopkins Center for Humanitarian Health; and others, who offered students invaluable insights on the evolving role of media in tackling global challenges.

International Students and Academic Participation

This year, the academy welcomed students from eminent universities across the UAE, Europe, Asia, and the United States. Local institutions included Abu Dhabi University, Al Ain University, and the Higher Colleges of Technology, which granted academic credits to participating students. Zayed University will also bestow a special certificate upon its CNN Academy students this year.

International attendees came from CNN Academy Erbil, University College Dublin, University of Nottingham Malaysia, and others, with many traveling to Abu Dhabi specifically for Simulation Week, highlighting the capital’s expanding status as a destination for international talent development.

Community Storytelling Focus

In line with the UAE’s Year of Community, this edition emphasized Community Storytelling. Participants examined how narrative influences public awareness, fosters social bonds, and captures lived experiences through interviews, field reporting, and news simulations.

Committed to Growth in the Creative Industry

Mohamed Dobay, Acting Director General of the Creative Media Authority, stated that the academy remains crucial in empowering young talent within the creative sectors. He remarked, "The fifth edition of CNN Academy Abu Dhabi underscores the significance of strategic partnerships in enhancing skills and expanding avenues for emerging media professionals. We are dedicated to fortifying Abu Dhabi’s status as a center of creative excellence."

Becky Anderson, Managing Editor of CNN Abu Dhabi and anchor of Connect the World, noted that the program has left a lasting imprint on its graduates and the broader media landscape. "Hundreds of CNN Academy graduates are actively contributing worldwide, employing the knowledge and principles they gained here," she stated.

Career Opportunities Beyond the Academy

CNN Academy Abu Dhabi continues to create concrete career pathways in the creative media sphere. Alumni have secured various roles, internships, and project-based opportunities with organizations such as CNN Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Media Office, twofour54, and more. Many are also involved in major local and international productions, forming a growing network of talented professionals bolstering the UAE’s creative media landscape.

#Global News