Being the "VOICE OF DUBAI"
Ahmad Haffar: Managing Director - Mindloop Studios
In the latest episode of the Dollar Diaries, we had the pleasure of diving deep into the multifaceted world of Ahmad Haffar, a prominent figure in the realm of voice acting and sonic branding. Ahmad is not just a voice; he is a creator, an innovator, and a passionate entrepreneur who has carved out a unique niche in the audio production landscape. This episode provided a fascinating insight into his journey, inspirations, and the groundbreaking school he has established to nurture the next generation of voice talent.
The Unconventional Path to Voice Acting
Ahmad Haffar’s journey into voice acting is anything but conventional. He does not fit the mold of a traditional artist who releases albums and tours the world. Instead, Ahmad has focused on building a brand around his voice and the businesses that support it. He emphasizes that his success is not solely about the voice but the entire ecosystem he has created around audio production.
His breakthrough moment came not from a single job but through establishing a voice agency that provided various audio services, including voiceovers. During this time, he discovered the unique lower tone of his voice, which resonated with audiences and clients alike. This discovery was pivotal, allowing him to discover a distinct identity in a crowded market.
Ahmad’s background in video games, where he was captivated by voice actors' performances, played a significant role in shaping his passion for voice acting. He recalls how his childhood experiences, particularly with his emotionally expressive mother, helped him understand the nuances of human emotion and how to convey them through voice. This ability to tap into a range of emotions has become a hallmark of his work.
The Importance of Self-Discovery
One key theme during the episode was the importance of self-discovery in Ahmad’s journey. He stresses that finding one’s unique voice—literally and metaphorically—is crucial for anyone looking to succeed in the creative industry. Ahmad encourages aspiring voice actors to explore their interests and passions, as this intrinsic motivation often leads to the most fulfilling and successful careers.
Ahmad’s advice is particularly relevant in today’s fast-paced world, where many individuals feel pressured to conform to established norms. He emphasizes that true success comes from understanding oneself and pursuing what excites and inspires you. This philosophy has guided Ahmad throughout his career, allowing him to remain authentic and genuine in his vision.
The Role of Sacrifice in Success
Ahmad’s journey has not been without its sacrifices. He candidly shares that he has worked tirelessly over the last decade, often without taking vacations. This dedication is common among successful individuals, but Ahmad’s commitment to his craft is noteworthy. He believes that without significant sacrifice, one cannot expect to achieve meaningful success in the arts or any creative field.
His perspective on sacrifice is refreshing. Rather than viewing it as a burden, Ahmad sees it as an essential part of the process. He celebrates his achievements, but only briefly, using them as fuel to propel himself toward the next goal. This relentless pursuit of excellence has allowed him to build a reputation as a leading figure in sonic branding and voice acting.
Building a Unique Brand
Ahmad Haffar’s brand is built on the foundation of sonic branding, a concept that goes beyond traditional voice acting. He has worked with over 100 brands, creating unique audio identities that resonate with audiences. His work has become synonymous with the sound of Dubai, as he has lent his voice to various announcements and campaigns throughout the city.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Ahmad’s approach is his understanding of the power of branding. He recognizes that sound is a crucial element of a brand’s identity and that a well-crafted audio signature can leave a lasting impression on consumers. This insight has driven him to innovate and push the boundaries of what is possible in audio production.
Ahmad’s work with brands like Festival City exemplifies his ability to create memorable audio experiences. He understands that the sound associated with a brand can significantly impact consumer perception and engagement. By focusing on the emotional connection that sound can create, Ahmad has positioned himself as a leader in the industry.
The Launch of ‘On the Field Academy’
A significant highlight of the episode was Ahmad’s announcement of establishing his school, ‘On the Field Academy’. This innovative institution aims to train aspiring voice actors and audio professionals, providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the industry. Ahmad’s vision for the academy is to create a unique learning environment beyond traditional education.
‘On the Field Academy’ offers a comprehensive program that includes one-on-one training, personality assessments, and practical experience in audio production. Ahmad emphasizes that the school is not just about teaching voice techniques; it’s about nurturing the whole individual. He believes that confidence, character, and emotional intelligence are just as necessary as vocal skills in the world of voice acting.
The academy’s approach is refreshing, recognizing that each student is unique and requires personalized guidance. Ahmad’s commitment to helping students find their voices and develop their talents is evident in the program's structure. By connecting students with industry opportunities and providing them with the tools to succeed, ‘On the Field Academy’ is poised to significantly impact the audio production landscape.
Embracing Technology and the Future of Voice Acting
As the conversation shifted towards the future of voice acting, Ahmad shared his thoughts on the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the industry. He expressed confidence that AI-generated voices would not replace human voice actors in the commercial world anytime soon. Ahmad believes that the emotional depth and creativity that human voice actors bring to their work cannot be replicated by machines.
His perspective on AI is grounded in a deep understanding of the industry. While he acknowledges that AI can generate voices and music, he argues that crafting a memorable audio identity requires a level of creativity and emotional resonance that only a human can provide. Ahmad’s commitment to quality and authenticity sets him apart in an industry increasingly influenced by technology.
Moreover, Ahmad is not afraid of AI; instead, he is actively working on developing his voice generation program within his company, Mind Loop Studios. This proactive approach demonstrates his willingness to adapt and innovate in a rapidly changing landscape. By embracing technology while focusing on human creativity, Ahmad is positioning himself for continued success in the industry.
The Passion for Cars and Design
In addition to his voice acting and sonic branding work, Ahmad Haffar has a well-known passion for cars. He describes himself as a “petrol head,” and his love for meticulously designed vehicles parallels his approach to music and audio production. Ahmad draws inspiration from brands like Ferrari, which represent innovation, passion, and excellence.
His admiration for Ferrari goes beyond mere aesthetics; it reflects his belief in the importance of craftsmanship and attention to detail. Just as Ferrari produces bespoke cars tailored to individual preferences, Ahmad strives to create unique audio experiences that resonate with audiences on a personal level. This connection between his passion for cars and his work in audio production highlights the depth of his creativity and commitment to excellence.
Ahmad Haffar’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and self-discovery. His unique approach to voice acting and sonic branding has set him apart in a competitive industry, and his commitment to nurturing the next generation of talent through On the Field Academy is commendable. Ahmad is undoubtedly a voice for the future as he continues to innovate and push the boundaries of what is possible in audio production.
The insights shared in this episode of The Dollar Diaries inspire anyone looking to carve their path in the creative industry. Ahmad’s journey reminds us that success is not just about talent; it’s about hard work, sacrifice, and the willingness to embrace one’s unique voice. As we look ahead, it will be exciting to see how Ahmad Haffar continues to shape the landscape of voice acting and sonic branding, leaving an indelible mark on the industry for years.