Dr. Amr El-Leithy, President of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation Broadcasting Union (OSBU), stated that media and artificial intelligence are now foundational pillars for supporting entrepreneurship among youth in OIC member states. Speaking at the Al-Baraka Forum, he emphasized that a complete innovation ecosystem is essential for turning ideas into sustainable, successful businesses, moving beyond a sole reliance on funding.
Quick Facts
- Media and AI are key to youth entrepreneurship in OIC nations.
- Effective storytelling is critical for attracting investment and partners.
- OSBU plans to connect entrepreneurs across its 57 member states.
From Storyteller to Growth Partner
According to El-Leithy, the support system for startups has evolved past just funding and training. Media has become a primary partner in shaping success stories and connecting new ideas with tangible opportunities. He outlined three strategic functions for media institutions: generating awareness around innovation, building trust with investors and partners, and linking the different players within the startup ecosystem.
El-Leithy noted that in the age of AI, compelling storytelling is one of the most important factors for a startup’s success. The media’s role has shifted from being a simple narrator of success to an active participant in creating opportunities, accelerating growth, and promoting sustainability.
Building Trust as Intangible Capital
“Investment flows to where there is trust,” El-Leithy affirmed, explaining that the media acts as a form of intangible capital that helps create economic value. Through professional coverage, effective narratives, and highlighting the social and economic impact of startups, media can significantly stimulate investment.
He added that when media successfully showcases a country’s innovation ecosystem and sustainable growth opportunities, it can attract investment not just to individual companies but to entire sectors and nations.
OSBU’s Plan to Connect 57 Nations
El-Leithy highlighted OSBU’s unique position, with its ability to connect 57 member countries, their media institutions, and strategic partners. This network allows the union to play a central role in supporting the youth innovation ecosystem across the Islamic world.
The union’s strategy includes developing human capital in digital media and AI, launching specialized media platforms to support entrepreneurs, showcasing success stories, and connecting founders with investors. OSBU also aims to use AI and digital media to promote investment opportunities and promising projects.
AI’s Role in Content and Opportunity
Digital platforms, El-Leithy pointed out, have already reduced the opportunity gap between countries, turning geographical distance from a barrier into an advantage.
He detailed how AI tools are further accelerating this shift by enabling faster and more personalized content production, improving data analysis, and enhancing multilingual translation. These technologies also allow for the creation of advanced visual and audio content, boost audience interaction, and help lower operational costs for media and startups alike.
About The Organization of Islamic Cooperation Broadcasting Union (OSBU)
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation Broadcasting Union (OSBU) is a specialized institution affiliated with the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). It works to foster cooperation and coordination among the broadcasting organizations of its 57 member states, promoting collaboration in radio and television programming, news exchange, and technical development.
Source: Dar El Hilal
