#MEETTHEMEDIA Rashid Hassan

Rashid is the Senior Correspondent (Diplomatic Affairs) at Arab News. When Rashid is not covering the largest events in Riyadh, you can find him relaxing with his family in one of Riyadh’s wonderful parks.

What types of stories, trends or issues are on your radar now?

I’ve always enjoyed writing stories/pieces on strategic affairs, diplomatic and bilateral relations, as well as development stories, including sports, Cricket, and changing lifestyles and culture, especially in youth, in line with ongoing transformation under Vision 2030 in Saudi Arabia. Apart from that, I regularly cover major events in Riyadh, including G20 2020, the annual FII, also known as Davos in the Desert, Global Misk Forum, Global Cybersecurity Forum, Energy Conferences, LEAP Forum, OIC, GCC, Arab League and key bilateral and multilateral Summits.

Describe one of the wackiest proposals/ideas you’ve been sent.

I love writing about strategic relations, and sports to be specific Cricket, but to write about purely business development, especially with numbers is what irritates me, although I have extensively covered Saudi annual Budget and Riyadh Economic Forum, and have worked closely with the Federation of Saudi Chambers, purely business stories and interviewing business people is what I honestly don't enjoy. Appreciated widely in our newsroom as jack of all trades, trade story is what I just do, if and when required.  

What elements or characteristics do you look for in a story?

A good newspoint or better narrative with top sources is always a good choice. I also like stories that are informative, insightful, and leave you with an afterthought.

What story or stories are you most proud of?

It has to be stories that I wrote at the peak of COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 covering all the major G20 events, ministerial as well as the Leaders Summit at the climax of the G20 Summit. Apart from that, I truly enjoyed working on major interviews I did, including Gavi Alliance, EU, WHO, WFP, Saudi Aid Top Officials, Yemeni Minister, Former Indian Finance Minister P Chidambaram, another top official, Sam Pitroda, and the first FII Forum in Riyadh that made historic announcements.  

Tell us about your dream assignment.

The Hajj 2023 full coverage and first FII Forum in Riyadh that made historic announcements: NEOM, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman saying; We are going back to Moderate Islam. Also, to write a comprehensive feature about giga projects in Saudi Arabia: Neom, Amala, Line Project, Red Sea Projects, and Qiddiya, and The IV News Agencies World Congress (IV-NAWC) in Riyadh

Where did you grow up?

I was born in Darbhanga, north Bihar, India, and grew up pursuing higher secondary and Bachelor's degrees at AMU, Aligarh, and a Master's and PG Dip in journalism in the capital, New Delhi.

How did you get your start in the media? What is your story?

In the beginning, I was passionate about civil services, and later switched to journalism as I had a knack for storytelling (thanks to my elder brother who inspired this in childhood, subscribing to some monthly children's digests), and I eventually started writing stories. From stories to factual reports and finally, I had pieces in the University magazines.

Finish this sentence: If I am not reporting, I am…

I like reading opinion pieces online and social media and spending time with family.

Favorite local restaurants or other places to hang out?

I love going to Indian/Pakistani restaurants, and there are many in Riyadh. Also, Riyadh has an abundance of beautiful family parks: natural reserves, Wadi Hanifa, Wadi Namar, and Lake Park!

Tell us a little about yourself.

As a free-spirited writer at heart, I thrive on an innate desire to pen down thought provoking developments in Saudi Arabia, where Vision 2030 is spearheading reforms, bringing in refreshing transformation, and capturing the essence of the moment, diving deep into the story to get needful info. I'm fueled by a passion to explore the unconventional. From local heroes to influential thought leaders, I've interviewed a number of people.

You can catch up with Rashid:

Arab News

Rashid’s latest article in Arab News

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Linkedin

#MeetTheMedia Anita Joseph

Meet Anita Joseph, as Editor of two of the Middle East's best read publications - Reseller ME & Security ME, as well as the popular website Tahawultech.com, Anita is responsible for planning, sourcing and producing content across all three verticals.… and more importantly - she makes chocolates…

What types of stories, trends or issues are on your radar now?

My focus is on pioneering narratives that resonate with the future. From leading-edge contributions to the digital economy and cybersecurity/cyber enterprise advancements to emerging technologies such as AI shaping sustainable practices in Industry 4.0 & 5.0 landscapes, I navigate the evolving terrain, seeking stories that redefine innovation and societal impact. Today, I am actively engaged in narratives that bridge technological prowess with environmental consciousness, ensuring a sustainable and ethically-driven digital future. As a journalist, I am committed to propelling these narratives forward, driving meaningful change in the tech sphere.

What elements or characteristics do you look for in a story?

As a journalist, I believe that a compelling narrative should present a clear and balanced account, backed by credible sources and evidence. Embracing diversity in perspectives and ensuring ethical reporting are paramount, as are elements of conflict and resolution that resonate with the people, fostering a deeper connection.

What story or stories are you most proud of?

I've been fortunate enough to report on stories of human courage and resilience in the face of conflict. My journalistic career has allowed me to encounter first-hand, raw human emotions-sorrow, desperation, vulnerability, hope and strength. Through these narratives, I've grown as a human being and as a journalist-I'm proud of every story that I've ever crafted.

Finish this sentence: If I am not reporting, I am…

Writing poetry, teaching the English language and/or making chocolates.

Favorite local restaurants or other places to hang out?

Nobu & Zuma (Dubai), Myazu (Riyadh) - Japanese cuisine is a way of life.

Tell us a little about yourself.

I find joy in simplicity, recognizing beauty in the small things that often go unnoticed. My preference leans towards substance and depth over superficial trends. I appreciate the power of a good laugh and admire hard work and dedication. I find genuine joy in the company of children, recognizing their unfiltered honesty and unbridled curiosity as a source of inspiration. Challenges excite me, offering opportunities for growth and self-discovery. I hold honesty, respect, and commitment in high regard, considering them fundamental pillars in any meaningful relationship. Travel is not just a journey; it's an exploration of cultures, landscapes and the richness of human experience. A connoisseur of both food and fitness, I understand the delicate balance between indulgence and well-being. I'm drawn to bright colors that reflect the vibrancy of life, and good music serves as the soundtrack to my diverse experiences.

Catch up with Anita here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitajoseph25/

#MeetTheMedia Lisa Imogen Eldridge

Meet Lisa Imogen Eldridge. Her rally cry is maximum adventure, minimum impact.

Lisa, tell us about yourself.

I am a travel journalist and an award-winning travel blogger. Since the age of 21, I have been traveling, working and living abroad. And have lived in several countries including Australia, Colombia, Spain and Dubai. My aim is to visit every country in the world in my lifetime and I hope that I can achieve this goal.  

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in the south of England; in a small seaside village with a dream to become a journalist and learn more about society and the rest of the world. 

How did you get your start in the media?

At the age of 31 I completed a degree in magazine and newspaper journalism and worked for free for 2 years in my spare time, building up my writing portfolio. I then pitched to a travel website and landed my first paid assignment. Since then I have been published in various magazines and travel websites and am proud of what I have achieved. 

What story or stories are you most proud of?

Eleven years ago, I created Girl about the Globe, an award-winning blog for conscious solo female travellers, empowering women to travel solo and helping vulnerable girls about the globe. I’m really proud of the brand and community that I have created and I recently won the Travolution, Champions of Content award for my blog!

My mission is to educate and entertain people and show them a different side of the world through my writing. I travel the world visiting local projects and writing about issues affecting vulnerable girls in the country. I’m most proud of my story on visiting a refugee camp in Lebanon. 

Finish this sentence: If I am not reporting, I am…

If I am not reporting, I am travelling to emerging destinations, learning more about the countries and meeting the locals. Living in the UAE gives me the opportunity to see more of the Middle East and promote these countries to solo female travellers who may feel intrepid about travelling to them alone. And it means that I am close to my favourite landscape; the desert.

What’s next?

My dream is to create a non profit organisation to help provide hope and trauma care to children affected by conflict. I am currently in the process of this and excited about my vision for 2024.  

Connect with Lisa here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/girlabouttheglobe/