Expert advises young Emiratis to seek careers in diplomacy

Abu Dhabi - He threw light on the exciting career path that efficiently engages with global audiences in a way that informs and influences.

An expert in diplomacy and international relations has urged young Emiratis to pursue more careers in the dynamic field of public diplomacy, to help drive the country's international relations objectives.
Referring to public diplomacy as a "highly influential field that is pivotal to the UAE's international affairs in the 21st century", Michael Garin, who is the CEO of Image Nation Abu Dhabi, the UAE's international relations and diplomacy, education, executive training and research institution, threw light on the exciting career path that efficiently engages with global audiences in a way that informs and influences.
Garin said: "When we bring Hollywood professionals to the UAE, they are overwhelmed and impressed by the talent of the young people here. People in the UAE are very knowledgeable of the film industry. We don't lack for talent, we lack for mentors and experience. I've never seen a place with a such a concentration of talent, and now is the time to realise that potential."
Speaking at the two-hour interactive session held at the Emirates Diplomatic Academy (EDA) in Abu Dhabi, Garin that drew engaging questions from students, Garin set the stage by elaborating on the growing role of public diplomacy, and linked it to the UAE's international communications agenda.
He also underlined the media's special role as a disseminator of a country's key messages to audiences worldwide.
Illustrating how the UAE is adopting global best practices in the sphere of international communications, Garin spoke about Image Nation's work with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and showcased content - documentaries and other productions created by the company - that promotes the UAE's international outreach communications programme.
He also discussed Imagine Nation's role and collaboration with His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of EDA, on securing internships for Emiratis within the Academy.Garin, who drew upon his 40 years of experience in the industry, and his current role managing and forging key international partnerships for a leading UAE film entertainment company, explained to the students the preparatory steps they would need to take to successfully launch themselves in the sphere of public diplomacy.
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