30 under 30 – Communicate Online https://communicateonline.me Tue, 22 Apr 2025 17:14:50 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.2 https://communicateonline.me/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/cropped-favicon-32x32.png 30 under 30 – Communicate Online https://communicateonline.me 32 32 DANA IBRAHIM, 30 UNDER 30 https://communicateonline.me/interviews/30-under-30/dana-ibrahim-30-under-30/ Sat, 30 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000 https://communicateonline.me/events-people/dana-ibrahim-30-under-30/ I was always a dreamer. With that spark that makes you think, “Why not me?”. Letting those experiences shape who I am – not just what I do.

I was not afraid to embrace challenges, meet new people, learn from their stories, and allow every experience shape who I am today.

I am relentless in creating a life that feels true to me, even when some people doubt what’s possible. But it’s not about proving anything to anyone else but myself.

I am not going to settle for almost or approximately. I want to leave a mark in the hearts of people, the rooms I walk into, and the energy I leave behind.

I shall be a person who continues to live boldly, leaving behind not just achievements but moments that matter.

I shall not be swayed by doubts or fears – they can visit but never stay.

I like it when life surprises me, when the effort and faith turn personal goals and results to magic.

I dislike it when people stand for nothing, because they will ultimately fall for anything.

My biggest ambition is to live life to the fullest, leaving a footprint of inspiration and a story worth telling.

My biggest worry is running out of time before I have fully embraced every part of my vision.

I am most proud of myself. A lot of people don’t credit themselves often and tend to focus on one aspect. But I AM the full aspect.

I am a bit ashamed that I sometimes let self-doubt creep in.

Looking back, probably I should have trusted in myself more, even when things felt overwhelming. But now I understand that life is about showing up, staying curious, and figuring it out as you go.

Looking back, probably I should not have anyone’s negativity live rent-free in my head.

It all fell apart when I forgot that my path is my own, not anyone else’s.

Things made sense when I realized that everyone starts from somewhere.

Eventually things will align perfectly with the vision I’m working towards if I keep pushing and believing in the process.

Eventually things will not matter when I remember how far I’ve already come.

Someone once advised me that the journey is never bright; it’s about the lessons you pick up along the way (thanks, mom!).

I once advised someone to not only embrace the big wins, but also the little wins as they add up to the picture you’re building.

If I had a superpower, it would be the ability to inspire belief in others – help them see what they’re capable of, even when they can’t see it themselves.

My superpower in real life is positivity. It’s my armor, fuel, and the reason I never stop moving forward.

The word I use most is relentless.

The word I dislike most is ‘failure’ because every step teaches us something vital.

This too shall pass is my anchor on tough days, reminding me that being resilient leads to brighter moments.

My most treasured passion is inspiring others and creating meaningful connections that spark change.

People should be more fearless; boldness is where the magic happens.

People should be less afraid of rejection. If you’re not hearing ‘no’, you’re not aiming high enough.

I wish to thank every moment, every person, and every lesson that taught me to believe in myself and keep going.

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RYME EL KHOURY, 30 UNDER 30 https://communicateonline.me/interviews/ryme-el-khoury-30-under-30/ Sat, 30 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000 https://communicateonline.me/events-people/ryme-el-khoury-30-under-30/ I was a shy kid with big dreams and a love for music, quietly observing the world around me.
I was not confident in expressing myself until life and travel pushed me to grow.
I am a stubborn yet optimistic marketing strategy manager who believes that great strategies require a balance of planning, logic, and creativity.

I am not someone who gives up easily or settles for mediocrity (nor speaks about themselves)
I shall be someone who inspires others to discover their voice and embrace their unique potential, just as I have embraced mine.
I shall not be afraid to take risks or embrace the unknown.
I like it when music speaks to emotions words cannot express; in fact, this is when I get goosebumps and feel truly alive.

I dislike it when people resist change or don’t listen to other POVs.
My biggest ambition is to leave a lasting and inspiring impact wherever I go.
My biggest worry is losing the balance between my personal and professional passions.
I am most proud of how far I’ve come, and the confidence and resilience I’ve built through life’s challenges. (particularly as a Lebanese individual).
I am a bit ashamed that I sometimes wasted time doubting, when I could have been moving forward with confidence.
Looking back, probably I should have spent more time with my grandmother, listening to her real-life stories and learning from her wisdom. (this is a true experience my friends)

Looking back, probably I should not have worried so much about pleasing everyone.
It all fell apart when I neglected to take care of myself and my well-being. (from music to singing and exercising)
Things made sense when I realized every experience adds to the story I’m creating.
Eventually, things will align perfectly in their own time.
Eventually, things will not feel as overwhelming as they sometimes do now.
Someone once advised me that life should be easy with the partner you choose – choose happy.
I once advised someone that if you truly love and respect yourself, you’ll prioritize peace and surround yourself with a positive environment, rather than allowing negativity to take root.
If I had a superpower, it would be the ability to bring harmony—both musically and in life.
My superpower in real life is listening deeply and creating meaningful connections.
The word I use most is “inspire.”
The word I dislike most is “maybe.” Another one is: “no prob”
This too shall pass, just wait and see. (hmm, should I create a jingle with this?)
My most treasured passion is being a safe haven for my friends and loved ones, offering a listening ear in both happy and sad times.

People should be more patient with one another especially during these tough times.

People should be less self-centered and resistant to growth; remember, being loud isn't about words, but about actions.
I wish to thank little black curly-haired shy me for believing that there was someone more than just her curls—someone with a voice that matters.

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HUSSEIN BADRAN, 30 UNDER 30 https://communicateonline.me/interviews/hussein-badran-30-under-30/ Sat, 30 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000 https://communicateonline.me/events-people/hussein-badran-30-under-30/ I was always drawn to the logic behind any theory.

I was not aware of how much I don’t know.

I am committed to authenticity in every sense.

I am not in favor of trading off quality for effort.

I shall be always looking to inspire and be inspired.

I shall not be confined to a comfort zone.

I like it when merit is rewarded.

I dislike it when Netflix cancels a show on a cliff-hanger.

My biggest ambition is becoming a member of the Lebanese Parliament.

My biggest worry is overstuffing my routine to a point of burnout.

I am most proud of being the youngest manager in my practice.

I am a bit ashamed that I still get anxious before big meetings.

Looking back, probably I should have bought crypto.

Looking back, probably I should not have gone into engineering school.

It all fell apart when Marvel announced Phase 2.

Things made sense when I used to read my horoscope.

Eventually things will fall into place.

Eventually things will not happen randomly. Learn the factors and you’ll know the outcome.

Someone once advised me that I should accept what I can’t control.

I once advised someone that they shouldn’t conform to what they can’t control.

If I had a superpower it would be seeing the potential outcome of every decision before making it.

My superpower in real life is cat-whispering.

The word I use most is preposterous!

The word is dislike most is temporary.

This too shall pass as everything else always has.

My most treasured passion is Real Madrid CF.

People should be more open to having their methods challenged in pursuit of better methods.

People should be less accepting of having their core values amended to please others.

I wish to thank my manager and colleagues at Publicis, and Carlo Ancelotti

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TALA MAJZOUB, 30 UNDER 30 https://communicateonline.me/interviews/tala-majzoub-30-under-30/ Sat, 30 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000 https://communicateonline.me/events-people/tala-majzoub-30-under-30/ I was lost in translation

I was not the kind of kid who played the hero in school plays. I was always the antagonist.

I am an activist, a writer, a cat mom, and someone who believes in the power of friendships and well-tailored blazers.

I am not afraid to challenge narratives.

I shall be like an olive tree, deeply rooted in the love and wisdom of my ancestors.

I shall not be someone who forgets where I came from—or who compromises on values.

I like it when the Wi-Fi doesn’t crash during a pitch meeting.

I dislike it when people are tone-deaf to what’s happening in the world.

My biggest ambition is to leave the world better than I found it.

My biggest worry is that we’re losing our sense of connection.

I am most proud of having lived multiple lives, like my cat.

I am a bit ashamed that I’ve been in the driver’s seat of my life, but I still can’t pass the UAE driving test.

Looking back, probably I should have given myself more time, the most rewarding things need to simmer—like a pot of grandma’s mouloukhieh.

Looking back, probably I should not have doubted that there’s always room for softness in strength.

It all fell apart when I realized I’d been romanticizing chaos instead of creating clarity.

Things made sense when I understood that the world isn’t divided into heroes and villains; it’s all about perspective and nuance.

Eventually things will play out like a script. The world’s a theater, and everyone is improvising.

Eventually things will not be perfect.

Someone once advised me that “When the world is collapsing, I appreciate the smaller things in the world” – mom

I once advised someone that rock bottom is just the foundation you need to recreate yourself. Besides, how boring would it be to say you’ve lived the same life for 75 years?

If I had a superpower, it would be to freeze time—not for coffee (though that’s tempting).

My superpower in real life is reading between the lines.

The word I use most is holistic—because everything is connected, and nothing happens in isolation.

The word is dislike most is dynamic—it sounds very ChatGPT. If you know, you know.

This too shall pass but not without leaving its mark—and maybe a story worth telling someday.

My most treasured passion is performing my poetry—even if my cat is the only one in the audience (and judging me silently).

People should be more empathetic. It costs nothing to listen.

People should be less tone-deaf to the world around them. Awareness is a responsibility.

I wish to thank my mother, who wears more hats than I can count. She’s a powerhouse of a woman and my constant reminder that I can achieve anything I set my mind to.
 

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JANA AMACHE, 30 UNDER 30 https://communicateonline.me/events-people/jana-amache-30-under-30/ Sat, 30 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000 https://communicateonline.me/events-people/jana-amache-30-under-30/ I was a person who thought success was about proving myself to others, but I learned it’s about being fulfilled within.

I was not someone who opened up when I was upset or anxious—I only showed the composed side of myself.

I am someone who tends to overthink, it sometimes helps me notice details and perspectives that others don’t.

I am not someone who judges others, even when I see them making mistakes.

I shall be the person who gets back up every time—not because it’s easy, but because life doesn’t wait for you to get stronger; it moves on with or without you.

I shall not be defined by my fear of change.

I like it when kindness is acknowledged as a strength, not a weakness.

I dislike it when people underestimate the value of empathy in life.

My biggest ambition is to build a life where happiness comes first.

My biggest worry is failing to make the most of the opportunities I’ve been given.

I am most proud of the person I’ve become—someone who leads with empathy and works hard without losing sight of personal values.

I am a bit ashamed that I sometimes take on too much and forget to prioritize myself.

Looking back, probably I should have spoken up more for what I believed in rather than worrying about being misunderstood.

Looking back, probably I should not have stayed in situations that drained me just because I was afraid of starting over.

It all fell apart when I tried to do everything alone without asking for help.

Things made sense when I realized that putting myself first doesn’t mean I’m selfish; it means I’m stronger for others.

Eventually things fall into place when you trust God and karma.

Eventually things will make sense when you stop expecting life to follow a perfect plan.

Someone once advised me that "You can’t pour from an empty cup—take care of yourself first, because your well-being is the foundation for everything and everyone you care about."

I once advised someone that “Sometimes, walking away is the strongest and bravest thing you can do.”

If I had a superpower it would be the ability to heal—not just physically, but emotionally.

My superpower in real life is my ability to connect with others on a deeply personal level and make them feel understood.

The word I use most is “faith”.

The word is dislike most is “fear”—because it’s the one thing that gets in the way of pursuing what we want

This too shall pass because time teaches us resilience—we adapt, develop coping mechanisms.

My most treasured passion is helping others see their potential and grow into the best version of themselves.

People should be more compassionate, taking a moment to understand that everyone’s story is more complex than it seems

People should be less judgmental and quick to assume.

I wish to thank my family for lifting me during my lows and celebrating every success with love and pride.

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TATIANA SLIM, 30 UNDER 30 https://communicateonline.me/interviews/tatiana-slim-30-under-30/ Sat, 30 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000 https://communicateonline.me/events-people/tatiana-slim-30-under-30/ I was more an observer than a speaker

I was not 100% confident of myself but I kept trying to be

I am a realistic person in everyday life, but in my work as an art director, I am imaginative and always seeking creativity, and highly attentive to the smallest details.

I am not the kind of person who creates more obstacles for every problem. In my opinion everything has a solution.

I shall be more vocal about my skills and work on developing them further.

I shall not be afraid to take new steps and start new chapters in life.

I like it when I can be myself and overcome challenges, and my efforts are appreciated.

I dislike it when someone tries to take all the credits and ignores the effort of every member of the team and acts dishonestly.

My biggest ambition is to grow everyday even if it’s a little, and work hard to achieve all of my dreams.

My biggest worry is getting stuck in a situation where I know the hardest decision is also the right one.

I am most proud of the person I have become; someone others can trust and who is always ready to help. In my professional life, I am proud of how quickly I have evolved.

I am a bit ashamed that I doubt myself at times and remain silent when I should speak up instead.

Looking back, probably I should have went out and did it!

Looking back, probably I should not have doubted myself, or overthought so much

It all fell apart when I took things personally.

Things made sense when I began using my brain more than my heart in life, this helped me make better decisions and navigate challenges more effectively

Eventually things will always be okay! Nothing lasts forever.

Eventually things will not change by themselves you need to take actions!

Someone once advised me that “Do it right from the first time”

I once advised someone that “what is meant for you will always be yours!” so don’t panic! Trust the process.

If I had a superpower it would be to have many hands so I could achieve everything I want in life, because life is short.

My superpower in real life is that I can’t wear many faces I am really genuinely myself and don’t sugarcoat, which is rare these days.

The word I use most is yes, I can

The word is dislike most is NO!

This too shall pass here’s to new beginnings… I am always ready!!

My most treasured passion is creating creative slogans and singing

People should be more patient and honest

People should be less judgmental and narcissistic

I wish to thank everyone who has been and is in my life, because each one taught me something and helped shape who I am today.

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ANDREA RAJ, 30 UNDER 30 https://communicateonline.me/events-people/andrea-raj-30-under-30/ Sat, 30 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000 https://communicateonline.me/events-people/andrea-raj-30-under-30/ I was the girl no one expected to wake up everyday and land a job, but here I am.

I was not ready to embrace the world at 8 AM every day.

I am exactly where I dreamed to be in life.

I am not done building my dreams.

I shall be the best this industry has seen from a Gen Z.

I shall not be egotistic.

I like it when I’m recognized for my speed.

I dislike it when my anxiety takes the win in a difficult situation.

My biggest ambition is to be THAT GIRL who can do anything and everything, all at once.

My biggest worry is losing my parents.

I am most proud of my little sister, future family doctor; she’s my biggest inspiration.

I am a bit ashamed that I still can’t wake up to the sound of an alarm.

Looking back, probably I should have been calmer in challenging situations.

Looking back, probably I should not have trusted my 3 AM cravings, apparently a ‘midnight snack’ isn’t always a good idea.

It all fell apart when I woke up one day and realized I’m a full grown adult.

Things made sense when I realized that it was never that serious.

Eventually things will turn out to be even better.

Eventually things will not go according to plan but that’s when the real fun starts!

Someone once advised me that “Nothing goes unnoticed and even if you think nobody notices, God does”

I once advised someone that “In a perfect world, you could probably shoot for the moon but let’s be realistic”

If I had a superpower it would be teleportation, just to travel more.

My superpower in real life is my ability to multi-task, multi-departments.

The word I use most is “no”

The word I dislike most is “no”

This too shall pass the suffering of humanity

My most treasured passion is Art & Creation

People should be more “hopeful”

People should be less “delusional”

I wish to thank my family for believing in my potential and helping me grow. Special thanks to Nadine Ghanem for teaching me almost everything I know.

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ANA JULIA DE OLIVEIRA, 30 UNDER 30 https://communicateonline.me/events-people/ana-julia-de-oliveira-30-under-30/ Sat, 30 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000 https://communicateonline.me/events-people/ana-julia-de-oliveira-30-under-30/ I am obsessed with the Olympics – seeing what humans are capable of, overcoming physical and mental limitations, fascinate and inspire me.

I am not capable of putting my thoughts into a deck unless I design it slightly to make it more inviting to myself.

I shall be the best strategist that I, Ana Júlia de Oliveira, can possibly become.

I shall not be the one to shoot down ideas; instead, I'll always look for ways to build on them.

I like it when I am surrounded by a supportive environment where everyone feels safe to share their thoughts openly. In advertising, this kind of trust and collaboration is where the real magic happens.

I dislike it when my workspace is unorganized – it disrupts my thinking.

My biggest ambition is to see my strategic thinking and guidance make a real difference for brands over the long run.

My biggest worry is that self-doubt will creep in on the projects I’m most passionate about, holding me back from fully showing what I’m capable of.

I am most proud of how much I’ve grown in my presentation skills. I went from struggling to present a single benchmark slide, to being part of a panel at the MENA Effie Thought Leadership Program last year.

I am a bit ashamed that I haven’t learnt how to speak Arabic fluently although I have lived in the UAE since the age of 5.

Looking back, probably I should have voiced my interest and stepped up for projects I wasn’t assigned to simply because I’m not from the region. Living here makes us all inherently part of its culture.

Looking back, probably I should not have let the fear of making mistakes stop me from tackling projects beyond my comfort zone and experience.

It all fell apart when I thought I had cracked a rad space, only to realize someone had already thought about it and brought it to life first.

Things made sense when I wrote them down on a word document.

Eventually things will always fall into place – just like my strategies do – eventually.

Eventually things will not change unless we play our part—whether at work or in life, we all have a role to play, no matter how big or small.

Someone once advised me that "If you don’t make time for life, your work loses its spark" – It's the richness of my experiences and encounters with the world that fuel my creativity and help me bring real value to the brands I build.

I once advised someone that being you is what makes you irreplaceable—no one else thinks or sees the world exactly as you do. We each bring our own unique value.

If I had a superpower, it would be the ability to build and design decks instantly as my thoughts take shape.

My superpower in real life is processing information quickly and drawing multiple (sometimes too many) conclusions.

The word I use most is “Is that true?” – I anchor my thinking in truth, data, and real-world insights, believing that impactful brand results come from rooting communications in real human insights.

The word I dislike most is "strategy"—the way it’s often used in today’s industry ignores the nuances and unique forms it takes to meet each brand’s specific challenges and objectives.

This too shall pass everything – nothing in life is permanent—not brands, people, or situations. Every moment, good or bad, will pass, so I try to make the most of each.

most treasured passion is making sense of information. I live for the cathartic feeling of seeing all my thoughts and findings converge into one single statement.

People should be more empathetic.

People should not be as proud as they are.

I wish to thank God for blessing me with the right people at every stage of my life—my family, friends, and mentors who have supported me along the way.

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LEEN NIZAMEDDIN, 30 UNDER 30 https://communicateonline.me/events-people/leen-nizameddin-30-under-30/ Sat, 30 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000 https://communicateonline.me/events-people/leen-nizameddin-30-under-30/ I was a professional overthinker—now I trust my gut
I was not someone who could stick to one career dream—I wanted to try them all.

I am a proud Capricorn—Google my traits; they’re spot on.

I am not the type to follow the crowd—unless it's for a viral TikTok food trend.

I shall be a person who drinks green juices… someday.
I shall not be someone who overworks at the expense of enjoying life.

I like it when plans actually go as planned (rare, but magical).
I dislike it when email chains could’ve just been a 10-minute call.

My biggest ambition is to leave a legacy of work that people still talk about long after I'm gone
My biggest worry is fading into the background.

I am most proud of making people laugh during awkward silences.
I am a bit ashamed that I will eat the last fry and deny it.

Looking back, probably I should have been more comfortable asking my peers for help—it’s not a sign of weakness, but of self-growth.

Looking back, probably I should not have doubted myself as much when I was just starting out.

 

It all fell apart when I didn’t land the full-time job after six months of unpaid interning.
Things made sense when I ventured into new career paths that sparked my creativity – my personality had the space to shine.

Eventually, things will work out. I’ve found it’s easier when you can laugh through the process
Eventually things will not seem as important as they did in the moment. Drama’s always turn into anecdotes.

Someone once advised me that kindness sticks—people might forget what you said, but they’ll remember how you made them feel.

I once advised someone that If you’re not nervous, you don’t care enough about what you’re doing.

If I had a superpower, it would be teleportation—Dubai traffic is my nemesis.
My superpower in real life is making the most chaotic situations look like it’s part of the plan.

The word I use most is “Rockstar”—it’s my go-to for giving credit and offering a little ego boost.

The word I dislike most is “moist.” No explanation needed.

This too shall pass. Like a bad haircut or that awkward client meeting from last week.

My most treasured passion is storytelling—my mom calls me a ‘radio’ because I’m always on.

People should be more curious—it makes life so much richer.
People should be less judgmental—no one has it figured out.

I wish to thank every mentor, colleague, and my daily Arabica coffee that’s fuelled my journey so far.

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CLAUDE BOU FADEL, 30 UNDER 30 https://communicateonline.me/interviews/claude-bou-fadel-30-under-30/ Sat, 30 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000 https://communicateonline.me/events-people/claude-bou-fadel-30-under-30/ I was the quiet kid once… What happened? some might ask.

I was not expecting my love for colors to become my side hustle.

I am a morning person, no coffee needed (Don’t ask me how)

OR a work-in-progress, “a la decouverte”.

I am not one to settle for black and white when the world is full of color.

I shall be whoever I set my mind to be. That might change with time but that’s the journey that was written for me.

I shall not be a representation of what the society has set as standards nor defined by one role or title.

I like it when clients trust the creative process and give freedom to explore.

I dislike it when someone says, “That’s not how it’s done in this industry.” Says who?

My biggest ambition is to leave a creative legacy people reference with a smile.

My biggest worry is running out of ideas — but luckily, life is full of inspiration.

I am most proud of the women I am today that is full of joy and happiness ready to share it with the world.

I am a bit ashamed that I sometimes finish projects at the last minute (but they still shine).

Looking back, probably I should have said yes to more “crazy” ideas.

Looking back, probably I should not have underestimated the power of collaboration.

It all fell apart when my “quick DIY project” required a call to a professional.

Things made sense when I stopped striving for perfection and focused on connection.

Eventually things will align perfectly, like the final piece of a custom design.

Eventually things will not get dull if I have anything to say about it.

Someone once advised me that “The best things in life are on the other side of your maximum fear” OR “taking a break is not a luxury, it’s a necessity for long-term success and well-being.”

I once advised someone that waiting for the “perfect moment” is a trap; just take the leap and figure it out along the way.

If I had a superpower, it would be flying.

My superpower in real life is my sense of humor.

The word I use most is “Yalla?” is my way of motivating both myself and those around me to act and get things moving.

The word is dislike most is “Haram” aka “Poor thing”, because it implies a sense of pity or inferiority. I believe everyone is capable, and framing someone in that way gives a negative feeling, as if they’re lesser or powerless—which is far from true.

This too shall pass, like everything else that did and that will in the future.

My most treasured passion is infusing creativity into both work and life.

People should be more grateful for the things they have, that doesn’t mean they should not be ambitious and work hard for more and explore, but at the end of the day you must have a quick look around you and say, “I’m thankful and grateful for what I have”.

People should be less afraid and live more; life is about small leaps of faith.

I wish to thank everyone who saw potential in me before I did and let me add a splash of color into their world.

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