Culinary stars all set to add spice to 1b Followers Summit

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

Embraced by the essence of diverse flavours and the ever-enticing world of social media likes, renowned culinary content creators are set to grace the 2nd edition of the 1 Billion Followers Summit on January 10 and 11 at the Emirates Towers and the Museum of the Future in Dubai.

Organised by New Media Academy, this exclusive international event will be attended by over 3,000 content creators, influencers, and dynamic individuals from across the globe, featuring a lineup of 100 speakers, experts, and specialists hailing from various fields.

Among the star-studded guest list are culinary maestros such as Abir El Saghir, Chef Shaheen, Mahmoud Nabulsi, Basil Elhaj, and more, collectively amassing an impressive 60 million followers on various social media platforms. These culinary influencers will unravel the intriguing facets of their journeys, sharing inspiring tales of triumph over challenges and shedding light on pivotal moments that shaped their professional trajectory.

Abir El Saghir, a social media sensation with a staggering 24 million TikTok followers, 10 million Instagram and YouTube followers, and 500 million views across 90 countries, will be gracing the event.

Recognised as the Best Influencer at the Joy Awards 2023, Abir weaves together a tapestry of culinary delights, fashion, history, and heritage in her videos. Adorning the attire of each country, she adds a cultural flair to her engaging content.

Jordanian food blogger and mechanical engineering enthusiast Basil Elhaj, founder of the media company Twenty30, will also take the stage. His YouTube show, “The Tastiest Food in the World”, boasts over 6 million subscribers on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram, exploring diverse global cuisines and cultures.

Iraqi Chef Shaheen, renowned for his iconic catchphrase-turned-restaurant “YABA”, has swiftly become a leading star in the social media culinary sphere. With over 14 million followers, Chef Shaheen not only tantalises taste buds but also boasts an architectural portfolio featuring more than 72 designs across various locations.

Mahmoud Nabulsi, owner of Jordan’s first non-profit restaurant, Ezwitti, exemplifies social responsibility. A unique eatery with social solidarity at its heart, Ezwitti serves nutritious meals to those in need, operating on the principle of inviting strangers to a meal or accepting an invitation from a random person. The restaurant, managed by a diverse group of volunteers, carries the slogan “Think of others… You have enough bread but not enough for all the people.”