Influential Media Leaders and Creative Pioneers in Tourism and Arab Media Honoured in Cairo by AFASU

Cairo, Egypt – June 2026 — The Afro-Asian Union (AFASU) successfully hosted its prestigious International Golden Awards 2026/2027 on Sunday, 14 June 2026, at the renowned Concorde El Salam Hotel in Heliopolis, Cairo, bringing together distinguished public figures, tourism leaders, journalists, media executives, content creators, and digital influencers from across the Arab world and beyond.

Held under the inspiring theme "Honoring Influential Leaders and Creative Pioneers in Tourism and Arab Media," the event celebrated exceptional individuals and organizations whose contributions have elevated tourism promotion, strengthened cultural exchange, and enhanced the global visibility of Arab destinations through responsible and innovative media.

Speaking during the ceremony, Dr. Hossam Darwish, President of AFASU, emphasized that the awards represent the Union's deep appreciation for media professionals, journalists, content creators, and digital influencers whose work continues to promote Arab tourism and showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region to international audiences.

"Modern media has become one of the most powerful instruments for development, tourism marketing, and shaping the international image of nations," Dr. Darwish stated. "AFASU remains committed to recognizing individuals who use journalism, broadcasting, digital platforms, and creative storytelling to generate positive impact and inspire meaningful change."

AFASU Secretary-General Major General Ashraf Abu Eish highlighted that the ceremony reflects the Union's vision of celebrating achievers who contribute significantly to tourism development and Arab media excellence while fostering intercultural dialogue and encouraging travel and tourism across borders.

The event was graced by the presence of prominent dignitaries, including H.E. Prof. Hazem Attia Allah and H.E. Dr. Ghada Shalaby, former Minister of Tourism of Egypt, further underscoring the importance of media and tourism as pillars of economic growth and international cooperation.

A major highlight of the evening was the keynote address delivered by Alain St. Ange, Seychelles Ambassador-at-Large, internationally respected tourism strategist, AFASU Board Member, and President of the International Awards Sector.

Addressing the distinguished audience, St. Ange placed the media at the very center of tourism development and democratic progress.

"The three traditional pillars of democracy — the Executive, the Judiciary, and the Legislative — have accepted the Press as the needed fourth pillar."

He stressed that such recognition comes with immense responsibility, describing journalists and media professionals as the vital bridge connecting destinations to global tourism markets. He also praised Egypt's unique and authentic tourism assets while sharing insights into Seychelles' successful tourism model, emphasizing the critical role of media in telling compelling stories that inspire travel and cultural appreciation.

Honoured Media Professionals and Influencers

The AFASU International Golden Awards recognized an outstanding group of media professionals, journalists, influencers, and content creators whose work has made a lasting impact across the Arab world:

• Ahmed Ezz
• Ayman Adly
• Eman Sharif (Bahrain)
• Rana Al Rees (United Arab Emirates)
• Saeed Gamal El Din
• Sherine Farouk
• Dr. Saleh Al Makhdoum
• Adel Al Alfi
• Kefaya Abu Diya (Qatar)
• Mohamed El Eskandarani
• Mohamed El Shamy
• Mohamed Sheraby
• Mahmoud Al Jishi
• Naseh Al Kadi (Morocco)
• Nermine Abdel Moaty
• Rana Al Nasser (Lebanon)
• Doaa Al Ajmi

Recognition of Outstanding Media Institutions

The ceremony also celebrated influential media organizations that continue to shape tourism communication and digital engagement across the Arab world.

Al Rehla Tourism Newspaper, under the leadership of Mahmoud Al Jishi, received recognition as one of the leading Arab tourism media platforms for its pioneering efforts in supporting tourism journalism and destination promotion throughout the region.

Hala Podcast, co-founded by media personality Ahmed Ezz, was honored as one of the fastest-growing Arab digital media platforms, attracting tens of millions of followers and generating billions of views across multiple digital channels.

Celebrating Media Excellence and Positive Influence

The AFASU International Golden Awards continue to serve as a powerful platform for recognizing excellence, innovation, and leadership in media and tourism. Beyond celebrating achievement, the awards highlight the essential role that journalists, writers, broadcasters, content creators, and influencers play in building bridges between nations, promoting cultural understanding, and advancing sustainable development.

As the Arab tourism and media sectors continue to evolve, AFASU's recognition of outstanding professionals reinforces the importance of responsible journalism, authentic storytelling, and positive digital influence in shaping a more connected and prosperous global community.

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Pressemitteilung 

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Clevenard

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