Young Arab Leaders (YAL) and Showtime Arabia, the leading pay TV Network in the Middle East and North Africa, announced that five students have been selected for their media internship exchange program starting in June 2008.

The program, created out of a partnership between Showtime Arabia and YAL, opens the doors for Arab undergraduates to obtain experience in a world-class media environment.

By working with seasoned professionals in the Showtime headquarters in Dubai Media City, the interns will gain experience in several areas including programming, marketing, business development, media law and sports programming.

In order to maximise the benefits of the internship, YAL and Showtime Arabia are organising a three-day “Management Capabilities Workshop” to provide training for the interns in areas like recruitment and retention, performance management, coaching, decision making and communication skills.

Dr Omar Bin Sulaiman, chairman of the board of YAL, said: “The rapid growth of knowledge-based industries like media offers tremendous new opportunities for young professionals in our region. Exposing them to the work environments of industry-leading companies at the beginning of their careers will raise their aspirations and set them up for highly productive careers. Partnerships with companies like Showtime are critical for YAL to facilitate such opportunities.” 

Marc-Antoine d'Halluin, Showtime Arabia president and CEO said: "The internship program, part of an ongoing strategic alliance with YAL, gives young Arabs the opportunity to be trained in an international media environment. Showtime is proud to partner with YAL to offer a programme that contributes to the development of young talent in the region."

Assem O Kabesh, CEO of YAL said its partnership with one of the region’s leading media and entertainment providers was aimed at creating opportunities for young Arabs to prepare themselves for leadership roles in emerging industries.

"The youth are one of the key consumers of modern media and the presence of more talented and informed young people in this sector will contribute to the development of this industry.” he said.

The interns will each be assigned a mentor from the Showtime senior management team. Close guidance will help the interns enhance their understanding of the industry and sharpen their skills.

The YAL Media Internship Exchange Program offers internships lasting three months from June to August, 2008.-TradeArabia News Service