Industry leaders from Japan, MENA, Europe, and Africa revealed strategies aimed at cultural authenticity and digital innovation in broadcasting

Sharjah, May 3, 2025

At the Sharjah Animation Conference 2025, global broadcasting titans representing Japan, the Middle East, Europe, and Africa discussed the evolving challenges and opportunities in animation. Moderated by Valentina Martelli, Founder of ITTV International, the panel “Broadcasting Animation: A Global Perspective on Content Collaboration” facilitated lively debate on trends, digital disruption, and bridging cultural divides.

The session united diverse voices including Hiroki Tanaka, Chief Manager of Animation at Japan’s Yomiuri Telecasting Corporation (YTV); Mohamed Salama, Head of Revenue Operations at MENA’s beloved SpaceToon Go; Zümrüt Pakoy, Warner Bros Discovery’s Programming Director for MENA; Arne Lohman, Executive Producer of German network ZDF; and Ali Syed, MBC’s Head of Acquisitions.

Industry pioneers unite at SAC 2025 to propel animation’s next chapter in the region

Sharjah, May 3, 2025

The Sharjah Animation Conference (SAC) 2025 featured a riveting roundtable discussion titled “Animation in MENA & Africa: Opportunities & Challenges,” convening leading voices from the region’s animation industry to discuss the evolving sector. This anticipated session brought together Zümrüt Pakoy, MENA Programming and Presentation Director at Warner Bros Discovery; Abdulaziz Othman, CEO of ZEEZ Animation in Saudi Arabia; Tariq Ali, Founder of Egyptian studio ZANAD; Raymond Malinga, CEO of Creatures Animation Studio in Uganda; and Damilola Solesi, Creative Director and CEO of Smids Animation Studios from Nigeria.