Memoirs of a Saudi Ph.D. student: Bridging the gap between media and masses

Last week, I had the honor of attending Arab Media Forum in Dubai — undoubtedly the biggest event of its kind in the Arab world. I had the opportunity to attend the prestigious event as a panelist in a discussion on the fast emerging new media and its impact. Being the host and producer of my own YouTube show, I discussed the impact of this media form on people and whether this trend will continue or die down over time.
Honestly speaking, Dubai never ceases to amaze me. It comes up with one surprise or the other each time I visit this country. It always gives me a reason not to correct people who mistakenly consider Dubai a part of Saudi Arabia. I just enjoy such situations silently.
The highlight of the event (though a bit controversial) was the presence of Muna Albuhairy — the “shut up you mouse Obama” lady. It would not be an exaggeration to say that she was the star of the forum with everyone running to take a picture with her.
The presence of this simple and humble lady at the forum did not go down well with many people. Some angry participants thought that the simple lady was exploited just to gain more publicity and to make fun of her English language skills. Some were of the view that it was a shame that Egypt with its rich heritage and very long history in media was being represented by someone who shot to fame for a video that went viral a few days ago and had nothing else to her credit.
However, some people were of the view that her presence was symbolic and could help bridge the gap between media and people.
In my opinion the presence of that lady was a win-win situation. By inviting this lady, the forum organizers added value to the event and presented an example of how an ordinary person can voice his/her anger using various forms of media.
The innocent and humble lady aired her views freely and was looking very happy and excited.
She, in fact, emerged, as a symbol of Egyptian will. She represented the popular sentiments of the ordinary Egyptians.
Anyway, its over now and I am back to my normal life and I have to really work hard to finalize my data analysis. So, wish me luck. I have just discovered that my children will be off school next week for the half term holiday, God be with me.
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@HatoonKadi