Emad Doughan is a name that resonates within the creative and content marketing landscape of the MENA region. As the founder of Mohtawa, a platform dedicated to celebrating the culture, content, and community of the MENA area, Emad has established himself as a visionary leader. His journey is a testament to the power of passion, resilience, and the desire to create meaningful connections.
Early Influences and Career Foundations
Emad Doughan’s path to success began in his early years. Growing up in Jeddah, he was always captivated by the idea of engaging with people. This passion found expression during his school years when he took on a job as a promoter in local malls, introducing customers to the latest mobile devices. This hands-on experience ignited his fascination with communication and consumer behavior, prompting him to pursue a degree in marketing and advertising.
His first marketing class at university felt like a homecoming. “It was a natural extension of my passion for understanding consumer behavior,” Emad recalls. After graduating, he joined one of Lebanon’s leading digital agencies, where the fast-paced environment and innovative culture confirmed his career choice. Surrounded by creative minds, Emad Doughan realized that he was not just building a career but also shaping a future that aligned with his values and aspirations.
Major Milestones and Achievements
One of Emad Doughan’s most significant achievements came during his tenure at TBWA\RAAD, where he played a crucial role in scaling the social, digital, and content division from seven to forty members in just three years. This growth was more than just a numerical success; it was about fostering a cohesive team that could enact meaningful change in digital communication.
Emad’s journey didn’t stop there. He felt compelled to pursue a vision that was deeply personal: creating a platform that authentically represents the MENA region. This aspiration led to the birth of Mohtawa, a platform designed to amplify the work of creatives in the region. Achieving official partnership status with Meta early on marked a pivotal moment in Emad’s career. “It’s more than a business,” he states, “it’s about creating a space where our stories are told in an authentic way.”
Navigating Early Challenges
Every journey has its challenges, and Emad’s early career was no exception. He began as a social media executive, managing brands in Lebanon and Saudi Arabia. The demands of community management were intense, and balancing professional responsibilities with personal life proved difficult. The years of 2012 and 2013 were particularly challenging, as his dedication often came at the expense of his well-being.
It took time for Emad Doughan to learn the importance of boundaries, but that understanding became a cornerstone of his professional ethos. This lesson not only helped him find balance but also shaped the way he leads his teams today—prioritizing well-being alongside productivity.
Current Focus and Future Aspirations
Currently, Emad is fully immersed in developing Mohtawa. This project represents the convergence of his business expertise, love for culture, and passion for technology. “Mohtawa is about creating a thriving space for the creative industry,” he explains, “where the rich culture of the MENA region can be celebrated and represented accurately.”
This endeavour aligns seamlessly with Emad’s long-term career goals. He envisions Mohtawa not just as a business venture but as a platform that empowers local and global communities to engage with MENA culture meaningfully. It reflects his commitment to giving back to the creative industry that has shaped his career.
Inspirational Figures and Leadership Lessons
Throughout his career, Emad Doughan has been fortunate to learn from several influential leaders. His early manager, Elie Bassil, instilled in him the importance of believing in one’s potential. “He taught me to channel my strengths,” Emad notes, which laid the groundwork for his professional growth.
Noah Khan, another significant mentor, emphasized the value of interpersonal relationships in business. “Success isn’t just about results; it’s about nurturing a cohesive team,” Emad reflects. Lastly, Jennifer Fischer honed Emad’s strategic thinking, enabling him to communicate complex ideas with clarity—a skill invaluable in today’s fast-paced digital landscape.
Coping with Challenges and Setbacks
Emad Doughan’s approach to challenges is grounded in a philosophy of appreciation. He believes that both successes and setbacks offer valuable lessons. “Understanding that no moment is permanent keeps me grounded,” he explains. His strong support system of friends and colleagues serves as a reminder of his progress, motivating him to stay focused on his goals.
One of the most profound lessons he learned came during a challenging transition to a leadership role. Overwhelmed by responsibilities, Emad initially struggled with upward communication. However, a global training academy experience opened his eyes to the importance of seeking help and fostering communication. This revelation reinforced the necessity of building a supportive network within the workplace.
Defining Success and Leaving a Legacy
For Emad Doughan, the definition of success has evolved throughout his career. Initially tied to personal achievements, it has shifted to encompass collective wins and contributions to the community. “Success today means showing up for my team and enabling them to thrive,” he shares. He aims to foster an environment where everyone can reach their full potential, emphasizing that these daily victories are what truly matter.
Looking ahead, Emad hopes to leave a legacy of empowerment within the creative community. He desires to break outdated narratives about the MENA region and showcase its beauty and contributions. “I want to be remembered as someone who opened doors for others,” he states, “helping them represent themselves authentically.”
Emad Doughan’s journey from a young promoter in Jeddah to the founder of Mohtawa is a powerful story of passion, resilience, and the commitment to cultural representation. His story is not just about personal success; it’s about lifting others and creating a legacy of empowerment and authentic representation.
