Walaa Fouda Interview
In this in-depth interview with Walaa Fouda, she reflects on a multidimensional journey that bridges rigorous scholarship, national media leadership, and socially driven innovation. From earning her PhD at Cairo University to shaping public discourse through broadcast media and her “180 Degrees” podcast, she shares how purpose-led communication can drive both personal growth and societal progress. The conversation also highlights her current leadership in innovation at University of Khorfakkan, where education, creativity, and real-world impact converge.
Building a Scholarly Foundation with Purpose
We started the interview by asking, “What motivated you to pursue a PhD in Mass Communication, and how would you describe that journey briefly?”
Walaa Fouda replied, “Pursuing my PhD at Cairo University was a strategic step to deepen my academic foundation and strengthen my research identity. The journey was intellectually demanding, but it shaped my analytical thinking and reinforced my commitment to impactful scholarship. My doctoral work enhanced my expertise in media studies and prepared me for leadership roles in higher education. While the degree itself was important, what truly mattered was how it equipped me to lead, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to both academia and society.”
Where Media Practice Shaped
The Arab Today: Beyond academia, how did your media career influence your professional identity?
Walaa Fouda replied, “My years at Egyptian Radio and Television Union played a crucial role in shaping my leadership and communication style. Serving in senior editorial roles while advancing academically allowed me to integrate theory with real-world media practice. This dual path strengthened my ability to mentor students with practical insight and strategic thinking. It also reinforced my belief that communication is not just an academic discipline—it is a responsibility that shapes public awareness and social development.”
From Academia to Society
The Arab Today: You are the creator and host of the “180 Degrees” podcast. What inspired this platform?
Walaa Fouda replied, “180 Degrees was born from a deep desire to extend my academic and professional experience beyond university walls. After years in higher education and research, I felt a growing responsibility to connect directly with society. The podcast focuses on human development and positive transformation helping individuals reshape their thinking, improve relationships, and grow both academically and professionally. It represents a natural evolution of my journey: from classroom teaching to public impact.”
Why “180 Degrees” Connects Across Generations
The Arab Today: Your podcast has built a strong community. What makes it resonate with such a diverse audience?
Walaa Fouda replied, “The philosophy behind “180 Degrees” is simple yet powerful: transformation begins with awareness. I address universal themes—family relationships, youth challenges, academic growth, career development, and ethical values. My audience ranges from teenagers to professionals in their fifties because the topics speak to shared human experiences. The platform allows me to transfer more than twenty-five years of academic and professional insight in a practical, accessible, and engaging format that resonates across generations.”
Leading Innovation as a Mission
The Arab Today: You currently lead innovation initiatives at the University of Khorfakkan. What does this role mean to you?
Walaa Fouda replied, “At University of Khorfakkan, my role as Innovation Leader goes beyond administration, it is a mission. Working within the Deanship of Research and Innovation revealed another dimension of my leadership potential. I lead initiatives that foster entrepreneurship, enhance student capabilities, and create stronger connections between academia and industry. Innovation, for me, is about building systems that empower students to think creatively and act confidently in a rapidly evolving world.”
“Hunt for Diamonds”
The Arab Today: Can you tell us about the “Hunt for Diamonds” Innovation Award?
Walaa Fouda replied, “The “Hunt for Diamonds” Innovation Award at University of Khorfakkan is a project I deeply believe in. It focuses on discovering hidden talents among students and transforming creative ideas into practical, impactful solutions. My goal is not only to identify innovation but to nurture it, refine it, and activate it. The award serves as a structured platform to guide young innovators, provide mentorship, and help translate vision into real societal value.”
Integrating Academia, Innovation
Lastly we asked, “How do you balance academia, innovation leadership, and media influence?”
“For me, these roles are interconnected rather than separate. Academia provides the intellectual foundation. Innovation leadership translates knowledge into institutional impact. Media platforms like “180 Degrees” extend that impact to society. At every stage of my journey, the objective has remained consistent: empowering others, elevating awareness, and preparing individuals for a future shaped by digital transformation and ethical responsibility. Whether in a lecture hall, an innovation lab, or behind a microphone, my mission remains the same creating meaningful and sustainable influence.” Walaa Fouda concluded
Connect with Walaa Fouda on LinkedIn
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