Eman Faqihi ‘13, a YES alum from Bahrain, recently placed third in the selective Media Talent Award. The award was sponsored by Bahrain’s Ministry of Information Affairs and Tamkeen (Bahrain’s public labor fund). The award aims to grow promising media talents through intensive training “to contribute to the development of the media sector in Bahrain.”

Eman was chosen from among hundreds for the rigorous eight-week competition focused on immersive radio, TV, and studio skills training which culminated in a final project pitch contest. 30 shortlisted finalists presented comprehensive bodies of work in English and Arabic after the training. Eman has always been interested in film and audio and has directed several short films and music videos in her spare time.

Inspired by the training on media ethics, field reporting, and content producing, Eman crafted an entertainment show concept that won over the judges. Eman intends to leverage this opportunity to launch a career in podcasting.

Eman says, “During my YES experience, I got to participate in theatre and was also active in theatre tech. This allowed me to learn not only about presence and composure but also the behind-the-scenes technical aspects...These experiences and opportunities that I got to do during my YES year were not really possible back home, and they helped me identify where my passions and strengths lie."

Eman Faqihi (YES 2012-2013, Bahrain, placed by AFS-USA in Bainbridge Island, WA)