Exploring the World of Media and PR with Zaina Al-Nasrallah
In the ever-evolving landscape of media and public relations, adaptability, creativity, and passion are key to success. Few embody these qualities as seamlessly as Zaina Al-Nasrallah, a Kuwaiti media professional whose journey is a testament to perseverance and innovation. With a career spanning public relations, documentary production, exhibition management, and podcast hosting, Zaina has established herself as a dynamic force in the industry.
From a young age, she was captivated by the world of television and advertising, a passion that led her to study media and advertising. Her early career saw her managing exhibitions and working in PR, experiences that shaped her ability to navigate the fast-paced world of communications. Today, as a podcast host, she brings compelling conversations to life, uncovering untold stories and providing her audience with fresh perspectives.
In this exclusive interview, Zaina shares insights into her career, the challenges and rewards of working in media, and her passion for storytelling. She discusses the impact of social media on public relations, the importance of networking, and the skills essential for success in the industry. A true advocate for creative expression, Zaina remains committed to pushing boundaries and inspiring others.
Join us as we delve into her inspiring journey, her thoughts on the future of media, and the lessons she has learned along the way.
Please introduce yourself to our readers.
I’m Zaina Al-Nasrallah, a woman from Kuwait working in the media industry.
Can you tell us about your educational background and how it shaped your career?
Since I was little, I loved TV, especially commercial advertising. That’s when I decided I wanted to study media and advertising—and I did. I have worked in public relations, managed exhibitions, written and produced several documentaries, and gained experience in all media-related fields.
What drew you to the field of public relations and media?
It’s amazing how much you can achieve by building good relationships with people. Networking and understanding the power of connections became clear to me when I first started working as a freelance exhibition manager before graduating. My passion for PR and media only grew stronger as I pursued my degree.
How did your journey in media and PR begin?
It started with my education. Even before graduating, I was interested in managing exhibition showrooms for entrepreneurs as a freelancer. I also had the opportunity to host several events before fully committing to a job in media.
What have been some of the most exciting projects you’ve worked on?
Every project is a unique story for me. I can’t work without passion, and I believe media is a field that requires both creativity and technical skill. I wouldn’t recommend anyone to enter this industry if they lack passion. That said, I feel the most engaged and inspired when working on projects related to Kuwait—it’s my heart and soul, and I always strive to create meaningful art.
You recently started hosting a podcast—what motivated you to take this step?
To be honest, if someone had told me a year ago that I’d be hosting a podcast, I wouldn’t have believed them. But thanks to LOYAC, this journey started smoothly. I took a hosting course with them, which gave me the confidence and experience to step into this role. They later offered me the opportunity to host the podcast. Feeling comfortable with the team and backstage environment helped me continue into the second season.
What topics do you enjoy covering the most on your podcast?
Each guest has their own unique story. What I enjoy most is when I connect with someone on a deep level and they open up honestly. Personally, I love uncovering stories that have never been told before.
How do you prepare for your podcast episodes and interviews?
I start with intensive research, looking into everything about the guest—articles, social media posts, previous interviews. I make sure to study what has already been said, so I can guide the conversation toward new and untold aspects of their journey. I also incorporate global issues into the discussion, as I believe it’s important to understand a guest’s intellectual and social engagement.
Who has been your most memorable guest so far?
I categorize my guests into two groups: those I have emotional attachments with and those who surprise me with their cultural wisdom. Every guest leaves an impact, making each one memorable in their own way.
What do you think makes a great podcast host?
There’s no magic formula for being a great host, as everyone has different preferences. However, I believe the key qualities are being a good listener rather than just a speaker, knowing when to pause on interesting stories, and smoothly guiding the conversation. A good host should flow naturally with the guest while steering the discussion toward a meaningful goal.
What challenges have you faced as a media professional, and how did you overcome them?
You always need a Plan B—whether it’s for guests, questions, or unexpected situations. You never know what might happen, so flexibility is essential. Being able to adapt quickly plays a huge role in successfully presenting a person or topic.
Do you have a dream collaboration or project you’d love to work on?
Of course—don’t we all? I have endless dreams and ambitions. There’s so much I want to accomplish, and while I know some goals are achievable, others require a level of effort that can sometimes limit the outcome.
What is your motto in life, and how does it reflect in your work?
“Do your best and expect nothing in return.” Once you lower your expectations, you begin to appreciate any feedback, no matter how small.
Do you have a favorite quote that inspires you?
“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.”
What are your hobbies and interests outside of media and PR?
I love reading literature and poetry. I’m also passionate about music—I’ve been playing the piano since childhood. Additionally, I enjoy traveling and exploring new destinations.
What skills do you think are essential for success in the media and PR field?
Communication, multitasking, creativity, reading, adaptability, and patience.
What has been your biggest career achievement so far?
I can’t say I’ve reached my ultimate career goal yet—I’m still working toward it. And even when I do, I know I will still feel there’s more to achieve.
If you could interview anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
I would have loved to interview one of my favorite writers, Naguib Mahfouz, who unfortunately has passed away. He was often criticized for portraying Egyptian society in a negative light, but his work gave us a clear and honest look at the realities of that time. Essentially, he documented history through literature.
What role do you think social media plays in shaping public relations today?
Social media plays a massive role. Influencers today have the power to shift opinions and even impact legislation. A single post can turn a small village issue into a global discussion. That’s the immense power of media.
Your message for us at CP Magazine?
Media outlets shape public perception more than we can imagine, but only those with a true voice and purpose stand the test of time. Keep your passion alive and continue the great work!
