Thought leaders and industry specialists to deliver series of ‘Inspirational Talks’ at IGCF 2021

Communication experts and inspired thinkers from around the globe will engage with audiences at the 10th edition of the International Government Communication Forum (IGCF) through a series of ‘Inspirational Talks’ designed to offer a deeper understanding and stimulate conversations on effective communication approaches that are relevant, timely and credible to strengthen decisions taken by policymakers and national planners.

Communication experts and inspired thinkers from around the globe will engage with audiences at the 10th edition of the International Government Communication Forum (IGCF) through a series of ‘Inspirational Talks’ designed to offer a deeper understanding and stimulate conversations on effective communication approaches that are relevant, timely and credible to strengthen decisions taken by policymakers and national planners.

Omar Farook, a Bahraini social media influencer and filmmaker and one of the Arab world’s most watched YouTubers, will take to the stage on September 26, the opening day of IGCF 2021, to share his ideas on the art of ‘Communicating with the Public’. Farook, who has more than 8 million followers across various platforms, will speak on how effective and influential government communication is vital to generating positive and direct responses from the public, especially in the case of sensitive matters such as a humanitarian crisis.

On September 27, Dr. Mohamed Al-Kuwaiti, Head of Cyber Security in the UAE Government, will educate the IGCF 2021 audience about the importance of cyber security and the role of individuals in defending cyberspace. In the session titled, ‘Cyber Security’, the industry specialist will also address the threats and dangers of social engineering tactics -- the art of manipulating people to give up confidential information -- and will discuss the impact that any breach or violation of the cyber security system may pose to individuals, institutions, and nations.

Timothy Armoo, founder of the UK-based social media agency, Fanbytes, who has helped creators and international brands reach GenZ audiences across various platforms, will focus on TikTok as an ideal platform for government communication departments to reach out to teenagers and young adults. At the session titled, ‘New platforms …. Targeted messages’, and taking place on September 27th, Armoo will discuss privacy concerns of the app’s users as well as address how TikTok can attract, reach, and simulate the interests of its target audience.

IGCF is organised by the International Government Communication Centre (IGCC), a subsidiary of the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB), under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohamed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. The upcoming edition is taking place on September 26 – 27, 2021, at Expo Centre Sharjah and will run under the theme 'Historic lessons, Future ambitions'.