Mona Ziade is a formidable force in the world of journalism, her unwavering dedication spanning over four decades as she fearlessly delved into the heart of turbulent geopolitics and economic crises in the Middle East and North Africa. With a wealth of experience and expertise, she has left an indelible mark on the industry.

Having recently concluded a remarkable 16-year tenure as the Middle East Communications and Outreach Officer for the World Bank Group, based in the vibrant city of Beirut, Ms. Ziade has become synonymous with insightful reporting and exceptional storytelling. Her astute observations and deep understanding of the region have made her an invaluable asset in shedding light on complex issues and bridging cultural divides.

Ms. Ziade’s journey began in 1978 as a reporter for United Press International, where she honed her skills and developed an insatiable curiosity for uncovering the truth. In 1982, she joined the Associated Press, assuming the role of Middle East correspondent, immersing herself in the fast-paced world of breaking news. Throughout her tenure, she fearlessly chronicled pivotal events that shaped the region’s history, including the Lebanese Civil War, the Israeli invasion of Lebanon, the Iranian Revolution, the Iran-Iraq War, Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait, and other notable regional milestones.

In a display of unwavering dedication to her craft and her homeland, in 1996, Ms. Ziade returned to Lebanon, where she partnered with her late husband, Ed Blanche, and a team of veteran journalists to revive The Daily Star newspaper, which had fallen silent during the ravages of civil war. Assuming the roles of National Editor and Foreign Editor at the publication, she played a pivotal role in reestablishing its prominence and influence as a beacon of truth in the region.

Recognizing her exceptional talents and unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity, the World Bank Group welcomed Ms. Ziade into their ranks, where her unique perspective and profound insights helped shape their understanding of the Middle East. Her role as the Middle East Communications and Outreach Officer further solidified her reputation as a trusted source of information, fostering understanding and cooperation between different cultures and communities.

Mona Ziade’s illustrious career exemplifies the power of journalism in uncovering the truth and shaping the world’s perception of complex issues. Her unyielding pursuit of knowledge, coupled with her ability to eloquently convey stories, has not only earned her the respect of her peers but has also brought critical global attention to the challenges faced by the Middle East and North Africa.

Stephanie Tavoukjian is a dynamic and versatile professional who expertly merges her architectural background with an exceptional flair for social media strategy. Armed with a bachelor’s degree in Architecture from the Lebanese American University, Stephanie quickly discovered her innate talent for harnessing the power of social media platforms to forge meaningful connections between brands and their target audiences.

What began as a personal passion soon blossomed into a thriving career as Stephanie witnessed the limitless possibilities and boundless creativity that social media had to offer. Inspired by the groundbreaking strategies employed by forward-thinking brands, she realized the potential to combine her artistic talents, strategic thinking, and architectural expertise to make an indelible impact in the digital sphere.

Since 2018, Stephanie has been at the forefront of the social media landscape, deftly managing diverse portfolios of clients from around the world. Her unwavering commitment to staying ahead of the ever-evolving trends, algorithms, and technologies in the industry has positioned her as a true trailblazer. With a comprehensive approach that encompasses content creation, community engagement, data-driven analytics, and meticulous strategic planning, Stephanie ensures that brands not only achieve their goals but also establish an unmistakable online presence that sets them apart from the competition.

Stephanie Tavoukjian’s exceptional blend of architectural acumen and social media expertise makes her an invaluable asset. Driven by an unwavering dedication to excellence, a boundless well of creativity, and outstanding communication skills, she is fully committed to crafting captivating digital experiences that enthrall and inspire audiences across the globe.

Ave Tavoukjian, a passionate writer and editor with a knack for a storytelling approach, was born in Beirut in 1968. With a career in journalism spanning nearly 25 years, Ave has immersed himself in the world of communications, developing tailored solutions for a wide array of clients.

As a Co-Founder and Communications Strategist for AIM Media Services, Ave has played a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s mission. His expertise lies in Corporate Media Strategy, where he skillfully devises and crafts narratives that captivate audiences and drive meaningful engagement. Many of the innovative communications solutions offered by AIM bear Ave’s creative fingerprints, showcasing his innovative and forward-thinking approach.

Ave’s journalistic prowess is unquestionable. From 2005 until the unfortunate closure of Lebanon’s esteemed newspaper, The Daily Star, in November 2021, Ave served as its chief sub-editor, a role which also afforded him the privilege of training and nurturing many novice journalists who went on to achieve success around the world. His written works encompass a wide range of topics, effortlessly navigating the realms of politics, business, economy, technology, education and the automotive industry. With each piece, Ave’s thoughtful analysis and engaging storytelling painted vivid pictures for readers.

In 2017, Ave embarked on a new venture by founding and assuming the role of editor-in-chief for www.fastmates.com. His dedication to providing captivating content quickly made this online portal a unique destination for automotive enthusiasts seeking a storytelling approach to the latest reviews, trends and releases.

Having lived in various countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States and Lebanon, in addition to frequenting many countries in Europe, Asia and the Middle East, Ave possesses a deep understanding of diverse cultures and perspectives. This multicultural exposure has enriched his journalistic endeavors, allowing him to connect with audiences on a deeper level.

Throughout his career, Ave has contributed his talents to numerous publications. His portfolio includes roles at publications like The Middle East Educator (2009-2010), The Oxford Business Group (2002), Executive Magazine (1999-2001), and StarDrive (2018). Each venture showcased Ave’s versatility, managerial prowess, and dedication to producing exceptional content.

Michael Glackin is a respected columnist and distinguished business correspondent, lending his expertise to The Sunday Times, the renowned publication hailing from London. With a focus on Scotland, Michael provides insightful coverage that captivates readers and sheds light on the ever-evolving business landscape.

His remarkable achievements in journalism have earned him accolades and recognition within the industry. Notably, Michael was honored with the prestigious Scottish Business Journalist of the Year award, a testament to his unwavering dedication and unparalleled storytelling abilities. Additionally, he was bestowed the coveted IBP Journalist of the Year award, further solidifying his standing as a leading voice in the field.

Michael’s career has encompassed pivotal roles across numerous media outlets. As the former news editor of City AM, a prominent London financial daily newspaper, he played a pivotal role in shaping the financial discourse of the city. During his tenure as the business editor of The Scotsman newspaper, Michael provided incisive analysis and comprehensive coverage of Scotland’s economic landscape.

His global perspective extends beyond the United Kingdom. Michael served as a producer for BBC Television’s World Business Report, delving into international affairs and unraveling complex economic narratives. As the managing editor of Beirut’s esteemed daily newspaper, The Daily Star, he navigated the intricate political and economic landscapes of the Middle East, lending his insight to the region’s most pressing issues. Michael ‘s contributions as a columnist and senior writer with Arab News further showcased his profound understanding of Middle East politics and economics.

With a focus on U.K., European, and U.S. finance and economics, Michael ‘s expertise transcends borders. He possesses a profound understanding of the intricate dynamics that drive these economies, providing readers with invaluable insights and informed perspectives. His vast knowledge and perceptive analysis have made him a sought-after commentator, with appearances on esteemed platforms such as ABC Television’s Nightline in the US, BBC Television and Radio, and National Public Radio in the U.S.

Hanna Anbar is a highly accomplished journalist and media executive with over 55 years of experience in the industry. He began his career in 1965 as an editor with Reuters, where he quickly established himself as a talented journalist with a keen eye for news and a gift for storytelling. In the years that followed, Anbar held several senior editorial positions, including managing editor of the Beirut-based English language daily, The Daily Star, where he helped to shape the paper’s editorial voice and direction.

In 1975, Anbar left Lebanon for the UAE, where he served as editor of two house journals, ADMA News of the Abu Dhabi Marine Areas (ADMA), and ONSHORE ECHO of the Abu Dhabi Onshore Oil Company (ADCO). Later, he became the head of the English language service of Abu Dhabi Television, where he helped to establish the channel as a leading source of news and information in the Middle East.

Anbar returned to Beirut in 1985, where he took on the role of editor-in-chief of ArabAd, the first Pan-Arab communications magazine. In this role, he played a pivotal role in shaping the discourse around the media and communications industries in the region, using his extensive knowledge and experience to inform and educate his readers.

In 1996, when The Daily Star was republished in partnership with The International Herald Tribune, Anbar rejoined the paper as managing editor and associate publisher. In this role, he oversaw the day-to-day operations of the newspaper, ensuring that it remained a vital and influential voice in the region’s media landscape. In 2008, Anbar was appointed as the executive editor of The Star, a position he held until the newspaper’s closure toward the end of 2021.

Anbar is currently co-founder and communications director at AIM Media Services, a company launched in early 2023 that specializes in providing a wide range of media and communications solutions to governmental and corporate entities as well as international organizations. His expertise in communications and his significant network of top-tier executives make him a pivotal powerhouse with the AIM brand.  

Throughout his career, Anbar has been a frequent speaker and lecturer on the topics of media and communications. He has attended dozens of conferences and events around the world, sharing his insights and expertise with audiences from a wide range of industries and backgrounds. Anbar’s passion for journalism and his unwavering commitment to ethical reporting have earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and peers, both in Lebanon and around the world.