Run Aotearoa’s Raymond Otene McKay has been appointed to the Direct and Outdoor jury at the Dubai Lynx Awards.
The awards recognise creative excellence and effectiveness across the Middle East and North Africa.
In 2026, the jury will see the top creative leaders from across the region and beyond convene in Dubai.
McKay is Run’s co-founder and CCO and has previously judged at Spikes Asia and Cannes Lions.
He 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.”
An exciting creative market
Earlier this year, Run, Zespri and Mr Apple unveiled a new consumer campaign for Māori Kiwifruit Growers in Dubai.
Māori Kiwifruit Growers Limited (MKGL) led the launch. The Māori Queen, Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po, provided her support by travelling with a Kiingitanga delegation to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
McKay says: “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.”
Jury line-up
Alongside McKay, several others from Aotearoa New Zealand and Australia have also been selected for the 2026 jury. This includes Film Craft category president and Finch Director Zia Mandviwalla, Leo Australia ECD Hilary Badger, and James Wright, Global CEO of Havas Red, Global Chair of Havas PR Network and Group CEO, Havas ANZ.
The jury also 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.
Spotlighting ideas that resonate
Jurors will evaluate standout work across film, digital, design, craft, PR, media, brand experience, creative effectiveness, creative strategy and more.
Dubai Lynx chairman Philip Thomas 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.”
Entries into Dubai Lynx are open until January 22, 2026.
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