Ali Rez Named First One Show Jury President from Middle East

At the upcoming 2025 One Show Festival, the Middle East will have its first ever jury president: Ali Rez, chief creative officer for IMPACT BBDO. Ali will be leading the Interactive, Online and Mobile jury.

The One Show is one of the world's most prestigious award shows in advertising and design. For over 50 years, the Gold Pencil has been regarded as one of the top prizes in the creative industry. The One Show has a rich legacy of honoring some of the most groundbreaking ideas, created by some of the most remarkable minds in creativity.

IMPACT BBDO remains the only Middle East agency to have won the Best of Discipline Pencil at the One Show – the equivalent of a Grand Prix -  not once, but twice.

Commenting on the announcement, Ali said, “I clearly remember winning my first One Show as a student way back, and the goosebumps it brought. The feeling is no different today. I’m extremely proud to represent the Middle East and the UAE at this most prestigious of shows.”

Previously, Ali Rez has been named as the first jury president to represent the Middle East at Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity in 2023, and at the Clios in 2024. He is also currently leading the regional jury for the ANDY’s.

“The One Show’s reputation is built on the integrity of its juries and judging process,” said Kevin Swanepoel, CEO, The One Club. “This year’s Jury Presidents will help further this legacy of the fairest and most positive judging process.”

More than 240 leaders from 40 countries have been invited to the One Show to judge some of the world’s best work in 2025.