We are thrilled to welcome May Baroudi, Head of Production at Naf+ KSA, as part of the jury for the 2025 US International Awards. May brings a wealth of experience from her dynamic career in film, television, and digital media, having previously led production teams at VICE Media and CNN Business Arabic. In this interview, May shares insights into her role, her passion for creative problem-solving, and her thoughts on what makes a winning corporate video. From managing complex projects under tight deadlines to fostering innovation and collaboration, May's expertise and dedication to storytelling shine through.
We are thrilled to have you on the jury for the 2025 US International Awards. Please tell us more about your work background and your everyday work life. Could you also tell us what you enjoy the most in your job?
My role is all about balancing creativity with logistics. I oversee a talented team, ensuring every project, from concept to delivery, tells a compelling brand story.
What do I love most? The blend of creativity and problem-solving, plus the thrill of seeing an idea come to life through collaboration. Being on the jury is a great opportunity to celebrate incredible storytelling from around the world - definitely an inspiring experience!
What projects have you done so far? Are there projects that stand out for you personally and what was the most challenging project you worked on so far?
I've been fortunate to work on a wide range of projects, but a few really stand out. One that's close to my heart is where we told a series of deeply human stories around community and culture in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia - watching those stories resonate with people was incredible and brought me closer to the culture.
As for challenges, a particularly ambitious brand film with a tight deadline and complex logistics takes the cake! Coordinating multiple locations, a large crew, and getting everything just right under time pressure really pushed us. But seeing the final result, knowing all the effort that went into it, made it all worth it!
What are you currently working on? And what else is planned for the upcoming time?
I am currently on a series of very exciting, branded films for a series of very important clients in the Kingdom.
What does an award represent to you?
An award, to me, represents recognition of the collective effort and passion that goes into a project. It's not just about the final product but the journey - the challenges overcome, the creativity unleashed, and the collaboration between everyone involved. It's a moment to celebrate all the hard work, but also a reminder to keep pushing the boundaries of what's possible. Awards inspire us to keep innovating and telling meaningful stories!
In your opinion, what makes a "good" corporate video? Alas, what are you looking for in a winning entry?
A "good" corporate video, in my opinion, connects emotionally with its audience while staying true to the brand's message. It should feel authentic and engaging, not just a promotional piece. Strong storytelling, high production quality, and clear communication of the brand's values are key.
When looking for a winning entry, I'm drawn to originality - something that feels fresh and daring. It should stand out creatively but still align with the brand's identity. I'm also looking for videos that have a lasting impact, leaving the viewer with a sense of connection and meaning beyond just the screen.
Are there any tips for potential entrants? Production-wise and presentation-wise?
Definitely! For production, make sure your visuals and sound are top-notch - high-quality production can elevate a simple idea into something powerful. Pay attention to the small details, like lighting, editing, and pacing. And don't forget: less can be more. Keep it tight and focused, don't overwhelm the audience with too much information or flashy effects.
For presentation, tell a compelling story. Make sure your video has a clear narrative arc and resonates emotionally. Also, think about how you package your submission - include a strong synopsis or context so the judges understand your vision right from the start. Most importantly, be authentic and bold!
