UAE, April 2026 — Augustus Media has announced a new partnership with Zayed University as part of the university’s First Year Experience (FYE) program, reinforcing its commitment to developing future-ready talent across the UAE.
The collaboration introduces a series of ongoing virtual learning sessions, designed to give first-year students early exposure to the fast-paced world of digital media, content creation, and marketing. Through these sessions, students gain practical insights into how modern media businesses operate – from storytelling and audience engagement to platform strategy and cultural impact.
Delivered entirely through online engagement, the program ensures consistent, accessible interaction between students and industry professionals. Each session builds on the last, creating a continuous learning journey that reflects the real-time nature of today’s media landscape.
Across the FYE experience, Augustus Media will take students through a three-part journey – building foundational knowledge of the media industry, gaining real-world exposure, and culminating in a final showcase that brings their learnings to life.
“This partnership with Zayed University is a direct investment in the future of the regional media industry. For us, media is fundamentally about high-impact storytelling, and true innovation starts with education. We believe that empowering the next generation of talent with real-world skills is not just a commitment to the UAE’s economic agenda, but the most vital step in securing a dynamic, culturally resonant future for content creation across the MENA region.”
Richard Fitzgerald, CEO & Founder of Augustus Media
“We are delighted to be partnering with Augustus Media, our partnerships with industry are the cornerstone of the Zayed University First Year Experience course, providing students with meaningful, real-world engagement from the very start of their academic journey, this is why the learning experience at ZU is so unique. By connecting classroom learning with practical insights from the first year this empowers our students to build the skills, confidence and professional mindset needed to thrive in a dynamic workforce.”
This initiative aligns closely with the UAE’s wider Emiratization agenda, supporting youth development and equipping the next generation of Emirati talent with the skills needed to succeed in a digital-first economy.
Through this collaboration, Augustus Media continues to position itself not only as a leader in digital media and storytelling, but also as a key contributor to the region’s talent ecosystem – shaping both culture and careers across the UAE.
Jane Tatterton – Assistant Provost for Student Affairs from Zayed University added
About Zayed University
Zayed University, the UAE’s flagship higher education institution, was established in 1998 and proudly bears the name of the Founder of the Nation – the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. In the spirit of Sheikh Zayed, the University is a pioneer and innovator in the field of education and research. The University currently caters to many Emirati and international students across its full range of undergraduate and postgraduate offerings. Led by Her Excellency Shamma Bint Suhail Al Mazrouei, Minister of Community Empowerment and Chairperson of the Zayed University Board of Trustees, the University proudly serves the needs of the Nation and contributes to the UAE’s economic, social and cultural progress from its state-of-the-art campuses in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Through research, scholarship, creative activities and outreach, Zayed University provides educational leadership, expands opportunity, and enriches the knowledge of local, regional, and global communities.
About Augustus Media
Augustus Media is a leading digital media company headquartered in Dubai, reaching millions of people across the Middle East and beyond. With a portfolio of platforms including Lovin’, Smashi, and more, Augustus Media creates culturally relevant, engaging content that connects with audiences in real time. Known for its social-first approach and deep understanding of regional culture, Augustus Media has built a reputation for shaping conversations, spotlighting local stories, and delivering content that resonates with a new generation of audiences. Through its work, the company continues to redefine modern media in the region — at the intersection of culture, content, and community.
Augustus Media 