Lamia Kamel, Founder, and Managing Director of CC Plus and Founder of Narrative PR Summit was NileFM's guest on "The Big Drive", and she told us all about the Storytellers Awards.&nbsp;
Can you tell us more about the Storytellers Award and what inspired its creation?
The Storytellers Award was inspired by our long-standing partnership with media platforms like NileFM and NogoumFM, which have supported us since the launch of the Narrative Summit in 2016. The Narrative Summit is a nation-branding platform aimed at positioning Egypt differently on the global stage.
Over the past eight years, we've brought together leaders from politics, business, government, and the arts to discuss ways to enhance Egypt's global image&mdash;through increasing tourism, foreign direct investments (FDIs), and promoting industries like fashion and art.
This year, we wanted to take a different approach by including young Gen Z storytellers. These young individuals often feel disconnected from the national narrative, and we wanted to create a platform for them to participate. The award was designed to encourage their involvement and help them become part of Egypt's story. The response has been incredible, and we've assembled a diverse and distinguished jury to ensure fairness and inclusivity.
Who are the jury for the award?
The jury includes prominent figures from various fields of storytelling. Tarek Nour, a renowned advertising guru and chairman of United Media Services, leads the jury. Other members include:
Tarek El Ganainy, producer of the movie Al-Harifa, Amy Mowafi, beloved media personality,&nbsp;Ahmed Wahba, photographer and director, &nbsp;Kareem Abou Gamrah, founder of&nbsp;Peace Cake, and Ahmed Ebied, brand management expert.
We intentionally selected a diverse jury to cover multiple storytelling disciplines and perspectives.
Who is eligible for the award, and what kind of content is recognized?
The award is aimed at young content creators under the age of 40. We kept the categories simple and inclusive to encourage participation. The five categories are:
Long Film: Videos up to five minutes. Short Film: Videos of one minute or less. Pictures: A carousel of static photos. Speak to the Camera: A short video (under one minute) where participants talk, share a joke or tell a story that represents how they see Egypt. Multimedia: Creative content using various media formats.
From each category, we will select three finalists, making a total of 15 finalists. Ultimately, five winners will be chosen from these finalists.
How does the Storytellers Awards contribute to nation branding?
Storytelling is fundamental to shaping a nation's image and identity. Egyptians have a rich history of storytelling, dating back to the Pharaohs, who documented their lives and beliefs on temple walls. In modern times, Egypt thrived in the 1950s and 60s through media, literature, and the arts, cementing its place as a cultural hub.
The younger generation, with access to technology and global connections, has the potential to continue this legacy. Storytelling helps document, connect, and inspire, creating a legacy that highlights the country's strengths and unique attributes. The award aims to bridge the gap between Egypt's heritage and how the youth perceive and represent it today.
What do the finalists and winners gain from the award?
All 15 finalists will be invited to the Narrative Summit, giving them the opportunity to connect with industry leaders and participate in discussions about Egypt&rsquo;s future. The five winners will receive special recognition and awards.
This initiative is about giving young storytellers a voice, inspiring them to showcase the positive aspects of their country, and encouraging them to contribute to its story through their creativity.
Will this be a recurring initiative?
Yes, the Storytellers Awards will be an annual event, evolving each year to remain relevant and impactful. We hope it becomes a recognized brand of its own, inspiring young people to express their perspectives and continue Egypt&rsquo;s storytelling legacy.
Any final thoughts on the importance of storytelling?
Storytelling is a powerful tool to preserve culture, connect generations, and inspire pride. By engaging young people, we hope to ensure that Egypt's rich history and vibrant future are communicated compellingly to both local and global audiences. Through their stories, we can showcase why Egypt is a nation worth exploring, admiring, and cherishing.

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