Dubai competition calls for TV personality hopefuls

This content was originally posted in 7DAYS UAE website at: Dubai competition calls for TV personality hopefuls Fancy being the next big thing in Dubai? This could be your golden opportunity. YouTube streaming channel ‘Dubai on Demand’ is hosting a competition to find its next presenter, and the winner will get their very own show. The concept is simple. Present your idea for a pilot TV show and explain why you should be the next big thing. The competition is open to all UAE residents over the age of 18 years. Organiser and founder of Dubai on Demand, Reim El Houni, explains that public demand is the main driving force behind the decision to ‘go public’ with this search for a star. “During 2015 and our soft launch phase we found that we were inundated by fans who all wanted to be Dubai on Demand’s next presenter. Given the wave of interest it felt like a presenter hunt was warranted and what the public wanted,” Reim explains. The channel is looking for someone unique and charismatic. “We are looking for someone who is passionate to be on screen and has interesting ideas for their own show, as well as a strong screen presence. Other skills such as speaking clearly and being confident are important and a willingness to work in a team is essential.” So what makes a good presenter in the eyes of the experts? Reim says: “To be a good presenter you need to have an on-screen presence so a personality that is personable, passionate and charismatic.” Hosts Layne Redman and Dina Butti are well known on the UAE circuit for their presentation skills, and they will be mentoring some of the finalists on how to best work their angles. It’s not always as easy as it looks, explains Layne. “The most challenging thing about being a presenter is having to deal with the elements. Certain situations arise where you have to roll with the punches, things tend to change last minute or even at the last second! So you have to be ready for anything that is thrown at you. It’s all about adapting and thinking on your feet. When you’re interviewing someone you have to be prepared for an answer that you’re not expecting.” So you’re ready for anything, you’re confident and outgoing…. But what else could you need to win this – apart from a killer pilot idea of course. Dina advises: “Be memorable. Think of your quirkiest asset and bring it to the forefront.” Another great trait is the ability to think on your feet. Dina admits this is one skill that all presenters need. “It’s challenging, being able to improvise on the spot,” she says. “People have no idea how many times presenters are ad-libbing and not only having to relay interesting information or opinions, but having to sound coherent while doing it.” Layne says some training would not go amiss, if you want to succeed. “I would advise anyone looking to become a presenter or host to take a public-speaking course. If you have the opportunity to take classes to improve your skills and your confidence it would be hugely beneficial. Also try and take on as many public speaking opportunities presented to you, whether you do it for free or not.” See Dubai On Demand’s Facebook page for further details and information caitlyn@7days.ae Read the original story at: Dubai competition calls for TV personality hopefuls