Participants from the National Experts Program (NEP) convened at CNN Academy in Abu Dhabi from January 13–14, 2025, for an intensive 1.5-day Masterclass at Yas Creative Hub. Led by CNN anchors, producers, and media professionals, the workshop focused on equipping senior Emirati leaders with high-level storytelling and communication skills for global impact.
Sessions included “The Art of the Pitch” and “The Art of Storytelling” with CNN Senior Producer Bijan Hosseini, who shared best practices for crafting precise pitches and building narratives that resonate with international audiences.
Adam Woods’ “Camera Confidence” session guided participants through on-camera coaching to deliver authentic and influential leadership messages. Glen Mulcahy led a hands-on Mobile Journalism training, introducing MoJo kits and techniques to create compelling visual stories on the go.
During the workshops, Participants took to the CNN Abu Dhabi set to present their pitches on camera, receiving live feedback from CNN Anchor Becky Anderson. Her masterclass offered strategic insight into shaping impactful stories that align with institutional goals and connect with global viewers.
The workshops concluded with participants empowered to lead with storytelling – armed with the tools to pitch, present, and produce content with clarity, purpose, and confidence.
Developed under the direction of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, the National Experts Program is a launchpad for Emirati experts who strive to play a leading role in the transformation of future-growth sectors aligned with the UAE’s national priorities. Underpinned by the values of His Highness and built upon five mindsets for lifelong learning, NEP’s rigorous program combines academics, immersive work experience, and mentoring by top government and business leaders. NEP cultivates sector expertise in its participants—a select cohort of ambitious, experienced professionals who will help shape the country’s future.
As custodian of NEP, His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan provides strategic guidance to ensure that NEP fulfills its mission of training Emirati sector experts in alignment with the UAE’s evolving priorities. His leadership ensures that NEP cultivates expertise and innovation, fostering a network of experts dedicated to the nation’s sustainable growth.
