From Classroom Clips to Global Campaigns: Dalia Amer’s Creative Journey
Dalia Amer, known to her followers as @amsterdalia, has always been a storyteller at heart. Armed with a camera and a curious mind, she began her journey by filming friends in class and editing clips on Windows Movie Maker. These early experiments were more than just teenage hobbies—they were the seeds of a flourishing career in content creation and marketing.
Growing up in the UAE, Dalia was surrounded by a vibrant mix of cultures and creativity, which helped shape her storytelling style and gave her a deep appreciation for diverse perspectives. Through her personal brand @amsterdalia, she also creates relatable travel content that highlights the culture shocks, humor, and everyday adventures of starting a new life abroad.
An Unexpected Start in Marketing
Dalia’s professional journey took an unexpected turn when she was freelancing as a promoter, distributing food samples. She admired the marketing professional managing the team, and fate intervened when she returned to collect her payment. Instead of just a paycheck, she received her first full-time role in marketing. This opportunity opened doors she hadn’t anticipated, setting her on a path that would align with her creative passions.
Discovering Strengths Beyond Academia
Academically, Dalia didn’t always shine. However, entering the workforce unveiled her innate creativity and exceptional people skills. Early in her career, she faced significant challenges, including being fired by a manager who felt threatened and attempted to take credit for her work. These experiences, though difficult, taught her resilience and the importance of standing up for oneself.
Building Hashtag Hive: A Dream Realized
Today, Dalia is the founder and CEO of Hashtag Hive, a creative marketing agency working with clients across Dubai, Amsterdam, and Cairo. Her agency blends creative strategy with culturally relevant storytelling to help brands in the travel, hospitality, and events industries stand out.
Now, Dalia is focused on expanding her reach and creating content for brands worldwide, with the goal of growing Hashtag Hive into a truly global name.
Lessons in Self-Worth and Boundaries
One of the most valuable lessons Dalia has learned is that not everyone will celebrate your potential—especially in toxic environments. She emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries early, recognizing that a job is an exchange, not ownership. This realization empowered her to stop shrinking herself and to fully embrace her potential.
Embracing Change and Personal Growth
Dalia’s career began in radio, a field where she felt completely in her element. Leaving that comfort zone was daunting, and she questioned whether she’d ever find that sense of alignment again. However, life’s twists led her to discover that talents can evolve and still remain true to oneself. She now believes that career changes signify growth and should be embraced rather than feared.
A Unique Approach to Leadership
Not fitting the typical corporate mold, Dalia brings ideas, energy, and authenticity to her work. She aims to make work feel exciting, personal, and human. Her leadership style is defined by creativity without ego and a focus on making people feel seen. She advocates that work doesn’t have to be heavy to matter and that being yourself is always enough.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Dalia hopes her journey inspires others to find joy in their passions, as these interests might just lead to fulfilling careers. She encourages individuals to speak up, ask for what they want, and never wait for permission.
Recognizing that some may try to dim your light out of fear, she asserts that anyone can achieve their goals by staying true to themselves.
Connect with Dalia
For more insights and inspiration, follow Dalia on all platforms at @amsterdalia and learn about her business ventures at @hashtaghive.
read more- Why Passion Alone Won’t Build Your Startup in Dubai: 7 Harsh Truths
