Campaign Middle East speaks to Wael Jaber, Founder and CEO of Memories Events Management to explore how a startup with one fatherpreneur has evolved into a successful UAE-based company employing over 100 professionals
How did your father’s responsibilities influence your leadership style and decision-making within your business?
Being a father has had a profound impact on how I approach leadership and decision-making in my business.
It has taught me the importance of empathy and understanding. As a father, you learn to listen carefully to your children’s needs and concerns, and this skill translates well into the workplace.
I’ve found that by actively listening to my employees and understanding their perspectives, I can make more informed decisions that consider the wellbeing and aspirations of my team.
Fatherhood has also made me more patient and willing to mentor and guide my employees, just as I do with my children. I believe that nurturing and supporting the growth of team members is essential for the success of any business.
From an events and production perspective, what specific industry trends or developments are you passionate about?
In the events and production industry, staying at the forefront of innovation is crucial.
Firstly, I’m excited about the continued integration of technology into event experiences. This includes the use of Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality to create immersive and interactive events.
These technologies have the potential to revolutionise how we engage with audiences and create unforgettable moments.
Secondly, the fusion of art and event production is a trend I closely follow. Artistic installations, unique stage designs, and creative use of materials can transform an event into a work of art. Pushing the boundaries of creativity is essential to keep events fresh and exciting.
Lastly, sustainability is becoming increasingly important in our industry. I’m passionate about the development of on ground event management and innovative techniques to create utmost impact.
What are the most interesting challenges and opportunities in the events and production sector that you believe should be addressed?
In events and production, challenges are often the seeds of great opportunities. One of the most interesting challenges we face is striking a balance between creativity, budgeting, and delivering on our commitments.
It’s not uncommon for clients to have ambitious visions, and it’s our responsibility to find innovative and cost-effective solutions to bring those visions to life.
I firmly believe that challenges are our opportunities. When we encounter a challenge, it’s a chance for us to push the boundaries of what’s possible and to demonstrate our commitment to excellence.
Our team thrives on overcoming obstacles—it’s this mindset that has propelled us forward. Given we have our own in-house production house, The Builder’s Box, this gives us an advantage in the field.
What are your views on AI and innovation within the events and production industry?
AI is undoubtedly a game-changer. It has revolutionised various aspects of event planning and execution. AI-driven tools can analyse data to provide valuable insights into attendee preferences, helping us tailor events to specific audiences. It also streamlines logistical processes, making event planning more efficient.
While AI is a powerful tool, it can never replace the human touch. The essence of events lies in the creativity, emotions, and personal interactions humans offer. AI can enhance and facilitate our work, but it can’t replicate the imagination and innovation that human beings bring to the table.
Are there any recent industry developments or technologies that you believe will significantly impact the future of events and production?
Looking to the future, several industry developments and technologies hold the potential to reshape events and production. For instance, Virtual Reality has the power to transport attendees to entirely new worlds and create immersive event experiences.
Robotics can automate tasks and enhance efficiency, while AI continues to improve data-driven decision-making.
The convergence of these technologies is exciting. Imagine using VR to explore a venue before an event, while AI personalizes your experience based on your preferences, and robots assist with logistics.
These innovations will not only enhance the attendee experience but also make event planning more efficient and cost-effective.
Could you share insights into your vision for the industry and how you envision your business’s role in shaping that future?
Events will always be that space where we manifest the best of our imagination and shape them into unforgettable memories. My vision for the industry is to continue pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation. I want to see events that not only engage the senses but also touch the hearts of attendees.
As to our business, I envisage us as pioneers in adopting and integrating emerging technologies and trends.
Our role is to shape the future of events by setting new standards for creativity, efficiency, and excellence. We’ll continue to collaborate with diverse partners and clients to create experiences that leave a lasting impact and transform the industry itself.
By: Wael Jaber, Founder & CEO of Memories Events Management
