Interviewer: Kaswara, your journey from a computer engineering graduate to the chairman of Webedia Arabia is truly inspiring. Can you start by telling us what initially sparked your interest in entrepreneurship?
Kaswara Al-Khatib: Thank you! My interest in entrepreneurship really began during my time at Procter & Gamble. I was working in the marketing division, and it gave me an incredible insight into how big brands connect with people. However, I always felt that there was a gap in the local market, especially in terms of creative communication and media production. I wanted to fill that gap by starting something of my own, and that’s how FullStop was born in 2002.
Interviewer: FullStop was your first entrepreneurial venture. What were some of the challenges you faced when starting out, and how did you overcome them?
Kaswara Al-Khatib: Starting FullStop was both exciting and challenging. The advertising industry in Saudi Arabia was still developing, and there were many preconceived notions about what worked and what didn’t. One of the biggest challenges was convincing clients to take a more creative and out-of-the-box approach. It took time, persistence, and a lot of proof of concept to build that trust. Over time, as we delivered successful campaigns, we were able to establish ourselves as a credible agency.
Interviewer: In 2009, you ventured into the film industry by founding Made in Saudi Films. What motivated you to diversify into this field?
Kaswara Al-Khatib: After working in advertising for a few years, I noticed a growing demand for high-quality media production, especially in film and video content. The Saudi audience was becoming more sophisticated, and there was a real hunger for local content that resonated with their experiences. Made in Saudi Films was my way of addressing this demand by providing top-notch production and post-production services. It was also an opportunity to support and showcase local talent in the film industry.
Interviewer: UTURN Entertainment, which you launched in 2010, became a groundbreaking platform for online entertainment in Saudi Arabia. What was the vision behind UTURN, and how did it grow to become such a massive success?
Kaswara Al-Khatib: UTURN was born out of a desire to create content that truly reflected the social realities and aspirations of Saudi youth. At that time, there wasn’t much content that was both entertaining and relevant to young Saudis. Our goal was to fill that void by producing high-quality, creative, and edgy content that resonated with them. The rise of social media platforms played a huge role in UTURN’s success, allowing us to reach millions of viewers who were eager for this type of content.
Interviewer: In 2018, UTURN Entertainment merged with Webedia Group, leading to the formation of Webedia Arabia. How did this merger come about, and what has it meant for the growth of your ventures?
Kaswara Al-Khatib: The merger with Webedia Group was a strategic move to expand our reach and capabilities. Webedia is a global player in digital media, and by joining forces, we were able to tap into their resources, expertise, and global network. It allowed us to elevate the quality and scale of our productions, as well as explore new markets. For me, it was an exciting step that aligned perfectly with my vision of taking our content and services to the next level.
Interviewer: With your extensive experience in various sectors, what do you see as the future of digital media and entertainment in the region?
Kaswara Al-Khatib: The future of digital media and entertainment in the region is incredibly promising. There’s a growing appetite for diverse, high-quality content that reflects local cultures and experiences. We’re also seeing rapid advancements in technology, which are opening up new possibilities for content creation and distribution. As more people come online and as digital platforms evolve, there’s a huge opportunity to create content that not only entertains but also informs and inspires. I believe the key will be to stay innovative and responsive to the changing needs and preferences of the audience.
Interviewer: What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs who are looking to make their mark in the media and entertainment industry?
Kaswara Al-Khatib: My advice would be to stay true to your vision but also be flexible and open to change. The media and entertainment industry is fast-paced, and what works today might not work tomorrow. It’s important to keep learning, adapting, and finding new ways to connect with your audience. Also, never underestimate the power of creativity and innovation. Those are the elements that will set you apart in a crowded market.
Interviewer: Finally, what’s next for you and Webedia Arabia? Are there any new projects or ventures on the horizon?
Kaswara Al-Khatib: We’re constantly looking for new opportunities to grow and innovate. Right now, we’re focused on expanding our content offerings and exploring new formats and platforms. We’re also looking at potential collaborations and partnerships that align with our vision. The goal is to continue pushing boundaries and delivering content that resonates with audiences not just in the region but globally as well.
Interviewer: Thank you, Kaswara, for sharing your journey and insights with us. It’s been a pleasure talking with you.
Kaswara Al-Khatib: Thank you! It’s been great to share my story, and I’m excited about what the future holds
