Gushcloud, a global creator and IP management company powered by AI, has announced a strategic partnership with Michel Chahda, founder and CEO of Talent Plus, to revolutionize the talent and creator economy across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and South Asia. This collaboration aims to scout and sign talents, celebrities, and creators from the region and connect them with opportunities in Asia and Hollywood, and vice versa.
The investment is supported by ADM Holdings, owned by Sheikh Ahmed Dalmook Al Maktoum, and J&F Holdings, a private firm owned by Faisal Belhoul, Vice Chairman of Dubai Chambers and a judge on Shark Tank Dubai.
Following the opening of its 12th office in Abu Dhabi last year, Gushcloud is using this partnership to strengthen its presence in the region. The Abu Dhabi office serves as a gateway to both the MENA and South Asia markets, including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.
Through this partnership, Talent Plus gains access to Gushcloud’s vast network in Australia, East Asia (Greater China, Japan, Korea), Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam), and the USA. MENA- and South Asia-based talents can now sign cross-border deals and participate in international campaigns. Similarly, Gushcloud’s American and Asian talents will gain more exposure in the MENA and South Asia regions under Chahda’s leadership.
Althea Lim, Gushcloud’s CEO and Co-Founder, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership. “This collaboration aligns with our vision of bridging the East with the West. We are excited to partner with Talent Plus, ADM Holdings, and J&F Holdings to tap into the abundant potential and resources in MENA and South Asia. Michel’s experience and leadership, combined with our network, will significantly enhance Gushcloud’s capabilities and help us meet the growing demands of the creator economy. This partnership is a significant step toward Gushcloud becoming a truly global creator economy company.”
Michel Chahda, a media and entertainment industry veteran with two decades of experience, is excited about the venture. He has a track record of connecting top regional talents with multinational brands in healthcare, technology, retail, beauty, and government entities in the Middle East. Chahda also has experience in the football industry, with direct access to global football clubs and athletes.
“I am thrilled to partner with Gushcloud through my company Talent Plus. By combining our local market knowledge with Gushcloud’s global network, we are positioned to make a significant impact in MENA, South Asia, and beyond. With the backing of ADM Holdings and J&F Holdings, we are starting this venture on solid ground,” Chahda said.
The creator economy, currently valued at $250 billion, is expected to grow to $500 billion by 2027, according to Goldman Sachs. In the Middle East, digital content is expected to account for 46% of the projected $22 billion in media spending by 2024. With internet users in the region maintaining an average of 8.4 social media accounts and spending over three hours a day online, the MENA region is a promising market for creators and talents.
This partnership marks a pivotal moment for Gushcloud as it continues to expand its global footprint and redefine the creator economy across key markets.
