Showcasing the power of creative education in shaping innovators and careers for the future economy. Held in the Education Investment MENA Conference Room.
The Art of Visual Storytelling is more than a masterclass—it’s a cinematic awakening. Designed by award-winning filmmaker and production designer Uzair Merchant, this immersive session explores how we read, feel, and shape the visual world through the lens of mind, body, and soul. Merging film, design, and technology, Uzair takes participants deep into the language of cinema—starting with semiotics: the meaning behind symbols, gestures, framing, and how visual cues shape our subconscious response. The session breaks down the psychology of framing, guiding students to understand how we see the world, and how directors and designers manipulate that perception through lens choice, composition, and blocking. Through color analysis, participants will decode the emotional frequencies embedded in palettes, lighting, and transitions—learning how hue and saturation can guide mood, memory, and metaphor. The class also dives into contextual and cultural analysis, helping storytellers portray altered realities with intention—whether sci-fi futures, mythic pasts, or speculative presents. This is not just about making films—it’s about constructing meaningful visual worlds that challenge, heal, and inspire. Because when storytelling is rooted in resilience, imagination, and truth, it becomes a tool not just for expression—but for evolution.
Speakers:
Uzair Merchant
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Film Director / Production Designer - Bkreativ Productions
Categories:
Higher Education
Leadership and Professional Development
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Panel Session: The Role of Creative Education in Future-Proofing Careers
Session Summary:
This panel will explore how creative education prepares students for emerging careers, emphasizing digital innovation, media, and entrepreneurship. It will feature experts from academia and industry who can provide diverse perspectives on bridging education with industry needs.
Speakers:
Dr. Carlos Montana
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Program Coordinator - New Media Design - Rochester Institute of Technology Dubai
Baz Nijjar
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Vice President – Education Technology & Digital Innovation – GEMS Education
Dr Tim Hughes
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Director of Academic Quality Assurance & School Improvement - Bloom Education
Professor Subia Mojib
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Adjunct Professor in Art History at RIT - American University of Dubai & Rochester Institute of Technology Dubai
Muna Al Falasi
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Director, Esports & Games Strategy - Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism
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Bridging the Gap: Education, Industry & the Creative Economy
Session Summary:
This panel will discuss how education institutions and industry leaders can collaborate to ensure that creative education is aligned with workforce needs. Topics will include partnerships, curriculum innovation, and industry engagement.
Speakers:
Aubin Pereira
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Faculty Head of Performing Arts - Dubai Scholars Private School
Jan Horn
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Managing Director - SAE University College, Dubai
Muhammad Al Madhi
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Advisor - Rubu'Qarn for Creating Leaders and Innovators
Uzair Merchant
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Film Director / Production Designer - Bkreativ Productions
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The Credibility Crisis with Creative Careers
Session Summary:
School Councillors / Parents / Teachers / School Leaders
In Collaboration with Maria Vitoratos: Career Specialist
Talk by Maria Vitoratos covering the following:
▪ Myths about creative careers
▪ The power of the creative economy
▪ Changing the narrative
▪ Ways forward for parents, counsellors, and students making career choices
Speakers:
Maria Vitoratos
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Career Educator & Doctoral Student - Western University
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Creative Careers – The 360 ° Conversation
Session Summary:
This panel explores the fundamental questions behind creative career choices, including decision-making, common myths, parental concerns, and strategic guidance. I aim to surface the key perspectives of students, parents, and counsellors as they navigate future-focused, creative career pathways.
Panel Guests:
▪ Creative career professional
▪ Parent of a creative student/professional
▪ Career Counsellor
▪ High school student
Speakers:
Maria Vitoratos
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Career Educator & Doctoral Student - Western University
Areej Areed
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Educational Consultant - American Academy for Girls
Azizah Crane
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Runs speaking business - Speak Onstage
