NEOM and Mahd Launch Sports Journalism Program to Develop Saudi Talent

NEOM, Dec. 26 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – NEOM Media and Mahd Sports Academy have launched a four-week sports journalism program aimed at cultivating Saudi talent to cover major sporting events across the Kingdom.

The program, which concluded its inaugural session this month, welcomed 43 participants who underwent comprehensive training in news writing, editing, video production, and interviewing techniques. Designed to support the Kingdom’s growing sports industry, the initiative combined online theoretical learning with hands-on in-person training sessions held in Riyadh.

Michael Lynch, Sector Head of Entertainment, Culture, and Media Industries at NEOM Media, emphasized the importance of this collaboration. “By combining our expertise with Mahd’s world-class facilities, we have created a unique opportunity for young Saudi talent to develop their skills and contribute to the future of sports journalism in the Kingdom,” he said in a statement.

The program featured a panel of distinguished local, regional, and international experts, including Jeremy Inson, Hani Al-Hijazi, Sawsan Saad, Mohammed Moharram, Ayedh Al-Habi, Fabrizio Romano, and Pedro Pinto. These industry professionals shared their expertise, equipping participants with the tools needed to excel in sports media.

Mike Puig, Executive Vice President of Sports at Mahd Sports Academy, highlighted the program’s impact: “This partnership with NEOM Media allows us to provide aspiring journalists with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed. Together, we are empowering a new generation of Saudi talent to tell compelling stories and shape the narrative of the Kingdom’s sports industry.”

The program aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals by fostering local talent, building capacity in key industries, and positioning the Kingdom as a global leader in sports and media. Through initiatives like this, NEOM and Mahd aim to nurture the next generation of sports media professionals, enhancing the Kingdom’s global presence in the sporting world.