FINCH’s Zia Mandviwalla named Film Craft Jury President for Dubai Lynx 2026; RUN CCO Raymond Otene McKay named to Direct + Outdoor Jury

Globally awarded film and commercials director Zia Mandviwalla has been selected as the Film Craft Jury President for the 2026 Dubai Lynx Awards, alongside Raymond Otene McKay, co-founder and CCO of RUN Aotearoa, who has been appointed to the Direct and Outdoor Jury.

Dubai Lynx is the region’s leading platform for creative excellence and effectiveness. In 2026, its jury will convene in Dubai to set the benchmark for creativity, uniting top creative leaders from across the MENA region and beyond to review the most culturally resonant and innovative work shaping the industry today.

Working across Australasia, Asia and the US, Mandviwalla, represented by FINCH, directs campaigns for leading brands and agencies, known for her emotional precision, nuanced performance direction and refined visual craft. Mandviwalla has served on multiple industry juries including Spikes Asia, Axis, and Dubai Lynx – where she brings a thoughtful, rigorous perspective on craft, storytelling and impact.

Alongside her commercial work, Mandviwalla has an acclaimed body of film and documentary projects. Her short film Night Shift premiered at the Festival de Cannes before screening internationally and winning numerous awards. She has also directed episodes of the Emmy-nominated Netflix Originals Chef’s Table and Home Game, with her Asma Khan episode receiving a James Beard Award nomination.

Born in India and raised in Dubai, Mandviwalla is currently based in Auckland.

McKay, who has previously judged at Spikes Asia and Cannes Lions, says: “It’s a privilege to join the Dubai Lynx jury. I’m looking forward to seeing the creative ambition and cultural insight coming out of the region.”

Earlier this year, RUN unveiled a new campaign for Māori Kiwifruit Growers, for consumers across Dubai, in partnership with Zespri and Mr Apple. The launch was led by Māori Kiwifruit Growers Limited (MKGL), supported by Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po, the Māori Queen, who travelled with a Kiingitanga delegation to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Adds Otene McKay: “Having launched a recent campaign into the Dubai market, I know the sheer scale of the work from this region makes it one of the most exciting creative markets globally.”

This year’s Jury line-up brings together industry leaders from a broad range of markets, including first-time representation from Costa Rica, Uganda and Uzbekistan. Alongside RUN Aotearoa, other independent agencies making their Jury debut include AMPFY, Joan Creative, and Zurda Agency.

Leading global brands such as Philips and Stanley 1913 join the Juries for the first time, underscoring a growing commitment from brands to celebrate creativity’s role in driving business growth.

Commenting on the Jury line-up, Philip Thomas, Chairman, Dubai Lynx, says: “As MENA’s creative landscape continues to evolve, Dubai Lynx remains the benchmark for creative excellence. Our Jurors play a vital role in spotlighting ideas that resonate and deliver real business results. Thank you to this outstanding line-up for championing the transformative power of creativity.”

Jurors will evaluate standout work across film, digital, design, craft, PR, media, brand experience, creative effectiveness, creative strategy and more.

Entries into Dubai Lynx are being accepted until 22 January 2026. Further information on the Awards can be found at www.dubailynx.com/awards.

See the full jury line-up at dubailynx.com/awards/jury.

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