Yusuf Omar's Seen TV Journey: Social Media Insights at 1 Billion Summit
In the vibrant setting of the 1 Billion Followers Summit in Dubai, journalist and digital storyteller Yusuf Omar, a pioneer of mobile journalism (mojo), sheds light on the transformative power of social media. As part of the summit, which emphasizes meaningful connections and discussions beyond viral content, Omar shares insights into his journey, the influence of his multicultural upbringing, and the mission of Seen TV, the digital news media platform he co-founded. In an exclusive interview with City Times, Omar discusses the diverse perspectives in media, navigating challenges in digital platforms, and the immersive storytelling that lies at the heart of the future of media.
1. Social Media Beyond Highlights
Contrary to the common perception of social media showcasing perfect highlights, the 1 Billion Followers Summit in Dubai underscores its potential for forming meaningful connections and impactful discussions. With over 7,000 participants and 3,000 content creators followed by 1.6 billion people, the summit stands as a testament to the positive change and collaboration achievable through social media.
2. Yusuf Omar's Content Creation Journey
Yusuf Omar, a seasoned journalist with a background that includes working at CNN International, Hindustan Times in India, and a 24-hour broadcaster in South Africa, delves into his transition into content creation. In 2017, recognizing the opportunity to amplify marginalized voices, Omar co-founded Seen TV. The platform, boasting a team of 65 people worldwide, has published over 4,000 videos, accumulating a billion views annually.
3. Multicultural Upbringing and Content Creation
Omar's multicultural upbringing, being born in the UK, raised in Australia, married in South Africa, and of Indian origin, significantly influences the content he creates. Addressing the lack of diversity in traditional media, Omar explains how Seen TV emerged from a desire to challenge prejudices and accurately represent stories that often go unseen.
4. Third Culture Kid and Digital Media
As a third culture kid and a Muslim, Omar shares his unique perspective as a "fourth culture" individual, integrating Arabic influence into his cultural background. He highlights the importance of third culture kids being part of the solution, emphasizing the need for diverse voices to be heard and empowered.
5. Seen TV's Solution-Driven Approach
Omar underscores that mainstream media lacks the diversity necessary to cover the global and interconnected world comprehensively. Seen TV's solution-driven approach involves aggregating stories from individuals worldwide, providing a platform for diverse voices, and presenting a more accurate portrayal of the world.
6. Navigating Challenges in Digital Media Platforms
Balancing engaging content with substantial storytelling is crucial, according to Omar. While clickbait content may draw attention, he emphasizes the importance of covering vital yet often overlooked topics, tackling taboos, and destigmatizing subjects that are critical but underrepresented in mainstream media.
7. Combating Misinformation in the Online Space
Diversity of perspectives is Omar's key strategy for combating misinformation. By providing multiple angles from various individuals, the goal is to capture a more comprehensive truth. Seen TV's team of over 65 journalists, producers, and editors across the world is dedicated to creating high-quality journalism and giving a platform to voices that may otherwise go unheard.
8. Future of Media: Immersive Storytelling
Seven years into the journey, Omar expresses that Seen TV is just getting started. He envisions the future of media lying in immersive storytelling—telling authentic local stories that resonate globally. The focus is on stories that are debatable, relevant, and visually compelling, transcending geographical boundaries and resonating with diverse audiences.
9. Dubai's Role in Influencer Culture
Omar commends the UAE, particularly Dubai, for understanding the value of influencers and incubating the next generation of Arabic-speaking talent. The 1 Billion Summit is a testament to Dubai's commitment to fostering talent and making the city a global destination. In Omar's view, the UAE is ahead of the curve in recognizing and leveraging the potential of influencers.
In conclusion, Yusuf Omar's insights at the 1 Billion Followers Summit highlight the transformative potential of social media, the importance of diverse voices, and the ongoing evolution of digital media towards immersive storytelling. Seen TV's mission to challenge prejudices and present a more accurate depiction of the world aligns with the changing landscape of media consumption and storytelling.
For More Related Updates Please Visit Our Official Website
By- Sahiba Suri
Comments