Doha Debates launches Arabic-language podcast

Qatar Foundation’s (QF) Doha Debates has released its first Arabic-language podcast, Lana, which explores timely issues impacting young Arabs.Doha-based journalist Rawaa Augé hosts the podcast, produced in partnership with the Amman-based podcasting company Sowt.Lana - the Arabic word for ‘Ours’ - features young Arabic speakers who represent different sides of an issue, but are committed to listening to one another and engaging in open, thoughtful dialogue.During the podcast’s first season, guests will discuss contemporary issues such as ‘cancel culture’ and beauty standards, as well as long-standing challenges such as immigration and work.The podcast’s launch event on March 18 took place at the TEDinArabic summit, organised through a partnership between TED and QF.Lana is hosted by Rawaa Augé, a news anchor, producer, moderator, and digital content host at Al Jazeera Media Network.Augé hosted and executive-produced 70 episodes of the award-winning show Bekasretaa (which means Women’s Voices) for Al Jazeera Arabic TV from 2019 to 2021.The inaugural episode of Lana explores the use and value of online debate. Other episodes in the first season address the evolution of the Arabic language, mental health issues affecting younger generations and the complex topic of immigration and asylum.Doha Debates’ managing director Amjad Atallah said: "We’ve been able to create a number of spaces for people with diverse viewpoints to seek common ground despite their differences. We’ve found an excellent partner in Sowt for our first Arabic-language podcast, and we’re confident that it will create a similar space for Arab youth to engage in the kind of constructive dialogue that leads to social change.”Ramsey Tesdell, CEO of Sowt, added: "Sowt's goal has always been to create thought-provoking, intellectual and engaging content. When we started speaking with Doha Debates about a podcast, it was clear that we are closely aligned on this goal.”