The ever-evolving world of social media influence brings both opportunity and risk. While influencers and celebrities build thriving personal brands, they also face significant reputational challenges. At the AIBC Eurasia Summit in Dubai, a panel of industry insiders shared their experiences and strategies for handling negativity online.
Moderated by Dr Sara Al Madani, the discussion featured Taleen Marie, Nouraldin Al Yousuf, and Fatima Bahman—all of whom have faced public scrutiny at different points in their careers.
The Price of Influence
Having a large following can be a powerful tool, but it also brings inevitable challenges. Addressing the complexities of influencer culture, Dr Sara Al Madani highlighted:
“We all know having followers and being an influencer is important… but with that comes a lot of downfall.”
From business leaders to reality TV stars, the shift to digital platforms has placed individuals under unprecedented scrutiny. The panel explored the reality of maintaining an online presence while dealing with backlash, a skill that requires resilience.
“I’ve been in the limelight since I was 15 years old, so I had to learn how to create tough skin so I can survive,” shared Al Madani, reflecting on years of navigating public attention.
The discussion revealed that beyond the curated content and brand partnerships, influencers must develop strategies to cope with criticism, misinformation, and even online harassment. Social media can amplify both praise and negativity, leaving little room for error.
Cultural Pressures and Public Scrutiny
For influencers from the Middle East, reputational risks can be amplified due to cultural expectations. Fatima Bahman, a former Miss Universe UAE contestant, shared her experience navigating public perception as an Emirati woman:
“When I was about 19 years old and I started to work for Rotana at that time, my family saw me on TV, and they were not really happy about it. Being an Arab, being an Emirati, you’ll be criticised.”
She recalled similar concerns when entering the beauty pageant world but acknowledged that perspectives are shifting:
“In today’s world, we have progressed a lot, especially our Emirati girls. We have moved forward… but some mentalities at times still look at it differently.”
Nouraldin Al Yousuf, a seasoned media personality, echoed the importance of self-awareness in handling criticism:
“I think if you know yourself well, you know your worth, you know your values, you would not get affected. But we are human beings. Sometimes, I do get affected, especially when it comes to family.”
Their insights underscored a key theme of the discussion—navigating public scrutiny is not just about professional reputation but also about personal identity and cultural expectations.
The Impact of Reality TV and Social Media
The rise of reality TV and digital media has transformed personal branding, exposing public figures to heightened levels of scrutiny. Taleen Marie, reflecting on her experience with The Real Housewives of Dubai, explained the backlash faced by the first-ever international instalment of the franchise:
“Real Housewives of Dubai… we were the first international franchise, so being in the Middle East, there was a lot of backlash for that.”
The intersection of tradition and modernity creates unique reputational risks for influencers navigating the global stage. The panellists agreed that while visibility is key to success, it also invites a greater level of responsibility.
Handling Public Scrutiny and Crisis Management
For Nouraldin Al Yousuf, knowing when to disengage from negativity is just as important:
“You know, us as Arabs, we like to curse family first before we curse you. So, yeah, it gets annoying sometimes, but I’m very good at blocking. I don’t mind blocking a person.”
The Role of Support Systems
Beyond professional strategies, the discussion highlighted the importance of personal support systems in managing the mental and emotional toll of public scrutiny. Many influencers turn to their inner circles to stay grounded amid public pressure. One panellist emphasised the value of personal connections:
“The short answer is surrounding yourself with family… my sister, my husband, my children. After we would film, I would just come home, decompress.”
For many public figures, maintaining a sense of normalcy is crucial in an industry where image is everything. Whether through close friends, mentors, or family, having a trusted support system can provide a much-needed buffer against the pressures of public life.
Conclusion
The AIBC Eurasia Summit panel offered a candid look into the highs and lows of being an influencer in today’s digital landscape. The discussion highlighted the importance of resilience, ethical behaviour, and a strong support system in managing reputational challenges.
As social media continues to evolve, influencers must remain adaptable, transparent, and mindful of the responsibilities that come with their platforms. In an era where every move is scrutinised, those who navigate challenges with authenticity and integrity will stand the test of time.
