Richard Fitzgerald, CEO and Founder of Augustus Media is a media advertising leader with over a decade of experience across Ireland, England, and the UAE. After leading the Social Media department at Mindshare MENA, he ventured into a creative technology start-up, highlighting his versatility and entrepreneurial spirit. In 2015, he founded Augustus Media, a pioneering ‘new media’ company behind platforms like Lovin’ and Smashi. Starting with Lovin Dubai, the local news and entertainment channel is now live in 35+ cities across the Middle East and North Africa. In addition, Smashi TV, telling inspiring stories for the driver, the dreamers and the doers, covers 13 verticals including Smashi Sports, Smashi Business and Smashi Entertainment. Augustus Media received the 2022 Fast Company Most Innovative Companies award for AI in media. Richard continues to redefine storytelling in the UAE and KSA, solidifying his status as a modern media trendsetter. He manages media investments through Fitzy Fund.