Reflecting on my 30-year journey in the media industry, I feel incredibly fortunate to have been a part of many founding teams, witnessing the birth and growth of various ventures. This path has not only shaped my career but also enriched my life with profound experiences and invaluable lessons. In 1999, I had the privilege of joining the founding team of the Lebanese newspaper ‘Al Mustaqbal.’ This early experience was a turning point, immersing me in the world of journalism amidst field events, crises, and wars. It brought me closer to people, allowing me to listen to their pains and share in their struggles, fostering a deep sense of empathy and responsibility.

A major milestone came in 2003 when I joined ‘CNBC Arabia’ in Dubai. Transitioning from politics to business news and from print to television was both challenging and rewarding. Over 17 years, I delved into finance and business, eventually becoming the first woman to lead the editorial team of an Arab TV channel dedicated to economic news. This role honed my leadership skills and deepened my understanding of the economic landscape. My journey continued with ‘Sky News Arabia,’ where I managed digital media development. This role allowed me to engage with social media platforms, understand user behaviours, and craft effective content strategies. It was a period of immense learning and growth.

The next pivotal chapter was my work at ‘Expo Dubai,’ during which the idea for ‘Fifreedomtoday’ was born. Inspired by young individuals, I began exploring the future of money, blockchain, cryptocurrencies, AI, and the metaverse. This new realm represented a financial and technological revolution, leading me to embrace entrepreneurship. With Fifreedomtoday, I aim to leverage my three decades of experience to educate the young Arab generation about finance in a straightforward, catchy, simple credible manner. Later on, I joined Asharq News aiming to play a role in bringing people closer through information.

My journey is a testament to the power of resilience, passion, and continuous learning. It is a message that no matter where you start, with dedication and empathy, you can make a meaningful impact and inspire others to achieve their dreams. Ultimately, my mission is to empower young people to achieve financial freedom, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to navigate and succeed in the evolving financial landscape.

What challenges have you faced in your role as the Founder of Fifreedomtoday, and how did you overcome them?

I faced significant challenges in this role. Securing continuous funding for over two years was a major hurdle, alongside managing the complexities of remote work. While remote work offers flexibility, it complicates team management and content coordination. We overcame these by establishing a fully virtual work environment, utilizing cloud communication tools for seamless collaboration, and empowering a young, skilled team. These strategies proved invaluable, helping us maintain steady progress and achieve our goals. Today, we boast over one and a half million followers across platforms like Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook, Youtube, X, and Threads. Building trust with our team and followers demanded persistence, transparency, and steadfast effort.

What is your vision for the future of the media industry in the Middle East and the trends and technologies that will greatly impact the industry?

The media industry in the Middle East is undergoing a remarkable transformation, shifting from merely expressing specific viewpoints to building trust with the audience. The future of media here is about understanding and meeting the needs of the audience through advanced analytical tools, creating content that resonates authentically. Social media platforms like Tiktok, Instagram, and Facebook have revolutionized the landscape, ushering in an era of multiple platforms and fierce competition for audience engagement. Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and the metaverse will play crucial roles, enhancing storytelling and creating immersive experiences.

My vision is to empower the new generation of journalists to deliver content that truly connects with the Arab audience, maintaining professionalism and ethical standards while embracing innovative presentation styles.

Lastly, what are the rules and principles of success in work that you believe in?

I believe success is built on three key principles: passion, perseverance, and flexibility. Every day, I strive to work hard and continually develop myself. There are no limits to ambition, and every obstacle is an opportunity for growth. I’ve learned that nothing comes without effort, and even lessons have their price. By observing and learning constantly, we can overcome challenges and achieve our goals. This mindset has been my foundation for success.

Hana Hamzeh, Founder, Fifreedomtoday

Hana Hamzeh is the Founder of Fifreedomtoday, a pioneering platform dedicated to financial literacy for Arab youth. With a rich background in journalism and digital media, she is committed to empowering the next generation through accessible financial education and transforming lives with her visionary approach to financial freedom.