Bio
Maisa is CMO at A47 Media, leading the strategic marketing and growth function alongside business development. She shares opinion pieces on the GCC marketing community.
Editorial Responsibility
Responsible for how A47 shows up in the world, including the brand presence, building equity and community.
Previous experience · 16+ years
- · Former Head of Influencers at More
- · Ex Head of Strategy and Business Development at Empact Middle East
Education
BA Spanish & Literature, University of Jordan
Areas of expertise
Categories overseen
Stories from Maisa Aloul’s desk
736 stories- Culture· Americas
Hachette Book Group Cancels Publication of Horror Novel 'Shy Girl' Over AI Concerns
On March 19, 2026, Hachette Book Group announced the cancellation of the U.S. publication and discontinuation of the U.K. edition of the horror novel 'Shy Girl' due to allegations of AI-generated content. This decision was triggered by a New York Times inquiry and online reader suspicions that led to an internal review, revealing that 78% of the text was flagged as AI-generated. The long-term implication may involve stricter submission policies in the publishing industry as concerns over undisclosed AI assistance grow.
6 sourcesMar 22High
- Culture· Americas
Sexual abuse allegations against César Chávez prompt reevaluation of his legacy
On March 18, 2026, a New York Times investigation revealed multiple allegations of sexual abuse against labor leader César Chávez, leading to significant public backlash and the cancellation of commemorative events. The immediate trigger for this reevaluation stems from the resurfacing of these claims amid ongoing cultural reckonings regarding historical figures' misconduct. This development suggests a long-term shift in how society honors historical icons, potentially leading to broader discussions on accountability and legacy in the labor movement.
4 sourcesMar 22Moderate
- Culture· Americas
Nationwide Movement to Disavow César Chávez Following Sexual Abuse Allegations
On March 18, 2026, an investigation revealed sexual abuse allegations against César Chávez, prompting a reevaluation of his legacy across the United States. The immediate trigger for this movement is the detailed accounts of abuse, including assaults on minors and Dolores Huerta, which have led to the removal of public honors associated with Chávez. In the long term, this could reshape the narrative of the Chicano civil rights movement, emphasizing collective history over individual heroism.
3 sourcesMar 22Moderate
- Culture· Americas
ABC Cancels The Bachelorette Season Amid Domestic Violence Allegations Against Taylor Frankie Paul
ABC has canceled Taylor Frankie Paul's season of The Bachelorette just days before its premiere due to the release of a video showing her physical altercation with ex-boyfriend Dakota Mortensen. The immediate trigger for this decision was the public outcry following the video's release by TMZ, which coincided with ongoing domestic assault investigations. This cancellation could lead to significant financial losses for ABC and may prompt a reevaluation of how reality television handles personal controversies involving cast members.
13 sourcesMar 22Moderate
- Culture· Americas
Joseph Duggar Waives Extradition Hearing to Face Child Molestation Charges in Florida
Joseph Duggar waived his extradition hearing on March 20, 2026, allowing his transfer from Arkansas to Florida to face charges of child molestation. This decision follows his arrest on March 19, 2026, based on allegations that he molested a 9-year-old girl during a family vacation five years ago. The case is likely to reignite public scrutiny of the Duggar family and could lead to further legal actions against Duggar and his wife.
11 sourcesMar 22Low
- Culture· Americas
Nicholas Brendon, Actor from Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Passes Away at 54
Nicholas Brendon, best known for his role as Xander Harris in 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer,' died in his sleep from natural causes on March 20, 2026. The announcement was made by his family via social media, prompting an outpouring of tributes from fans and co-stars alike. This event highlights the lasting impact of the series on pop culture and may lead to renewed interest in Brendon's work and legacy.
13 sourcesMar 22High
- Culture· Europe
Accidental drowning of University of Alabama student James Gracey in Barcelona
James Gracey, a 20-year-old University of Alabama student, drowned after falling into the Mediterranean Sea near a Barcelona nightclub on March 17, 2026. The incident occurred during a spring break trip, with surveillance footage confirming it was an accidental fall, and authorities have ruled out foul play. The long-term implication may involve increased scrutiny of safety measures at popular tourist locations to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
7 sourcesMar 22Low
- Culture· Americas
Justin Timberlake's Bodycam Footage from DWI Arrest Released by Sag Harbor Police
On March 20, 2026, the Sag Harbor Police Department released redacted bodycam footage of Justin Timberlake's June 2024 arrest for driving while impaired. The release follows Timberlake's previous attempts to block the footage due to privacy concerns after he pleaded guilty to a lesser charge in September 2024. This incident underscores ongoing discussions around celebrity accountability and public access to legal records in the U.S.
4 sourcesMar 22High
- Culture· Asia
BTS Holds First Group Concert in Four Years at Gwanghwamun Square After Military Service
BTS performed their first collective concert in nearly four years at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul on March 21, 2026, following the completion of their mandatory military service. This historic event was triggered by the release of their new album 'Arirang' and the members' return to group activities, generating significant global anticipation. The concert marks the beginning of an extensive world tour, signaling BTS's renewed dominance in the music industry and the potential for increased cultural influence worldwide.
5 sourcesMar 22Very High
- Culture· MENA
GCC Nations Announce March 20, 2026, as Eid al-Fitr Celebration Day
The Gulf Cooperation Council countries have declared Friday, March 20, 2026, as the first day of Eid al-Fitr following the non-sighting of the Shawwal crescent. This decision was made after local moon-sighting committees failed to observe the crescent on March 18, leading to a unified celebration across the region. The coordinated observance reflects ongoing geopolitical stability and may enhance regional solidarity during future religious events.
4 sourcesMar 21Low
- Culture· Americas
Nicholas Brendon, Buffy the Vampire Slayer Actor, Dies at 54 from Natural Causes
On March 20, 2026, Nicholas Brendon passed away in his sleep from natural causes while managing chronic health issues. His death follows a history of health struggles, including a heart attack and spinal surgeries, which had been publicly shared by Brendon. The long-term implication is a renewed focus on mental health and wellness in the entertainment industry, as tributes pour in from fans and co-stars alike.
4 sourcesMar 21Very High
- Culture· Europe
Neanderthals Used Birch Tar as Antiseptic for Wound Treatment
A peer-reviewed study has confirmed that Neanderthals utilized birch tar with antibacterial properties for wound treatment. This research, published in PLOS ONE, was triggered by the need to understand ancient medicinal practices and their implications for modern antimicrobial strategies. The findings suggest a reevaluation of Neanderthal capabilities and may influence contemporary approaches to antibiotic resistance and natural remedies.
3 sourcesMar 21Low
- Culture· Europe
Kevin Spacey Settles Civil Sexual Assault Lawsuits with Three Claimants in London
On March 13, 2026, actor Kevin Spacey reached confidential settlements in civil lawsuits with three men who alleged sexual assault between 2000 and 2013. The settlements were announced following a High Court order that stayed the proceedings, avoiding upcoming trials. This resolution may impact Spacey's public image and career trajectory as he continues to face scrutiny over past allegations of misconduct.
4 sourcesMar 21Low
- Culture· Europe
World Happiness Report 2026 Highlights Social Media's Negative Impact on Youth Wellbeing
The World Happiness Report 2026 reveals a significant decline in life satisfaction among youth under 25 in Western nations, primarily attributed to heavy social media use. This report is timely as it coincides with rising adolescent mental health issues and increasing regulatory scrutiny in various countries. Long-term, this may lead to stricter regulations on social media platforms and a shift in societal attitudes towards youth mental health and digital consumption.
3 sourcesMar 21Moderate
- Culture· Europe
Dame Jenni Murray, iconic BBC broadcaster, passes away at 75
Dame Jenni Murray, the long-serving presenter of BBC Radio 4's Woman's Hour, died on 12 March 2026 in London. Her death comes after a distinguished career advocating for women's issues and is marked by tributes from colleagues and public figures. This loss highlights the ongoing conversation about women's representation in media and the legacy of influential voices in broadcasting.
3 sourcesMar 21Moderate
- Culture· Americas
Iranian Diaspora Celebrates Nowruz Amid US-Israel-Iran War
Nowruz 2026 was observed by Iranian communities worldwide with a mix of traditional celebrations and deep sorrow due to the ongoing war that began on February 28. The conflict, marked by significant casualties and military actions, has created a somber atmosphere during what is typically a festive occasion. The long-term implications include heightened tensions in the region and potential shifts in diaspora sentiments regarding their homeland's future amidst ongoing violence and instability.
3 sourcesMar 21Moderate
- Culture· Asia
Thai man arrested for trespassing into viral pygmy hippo enclosure at Khao Kheow Open Zoo
On March 17, 2026, a Thai man trespassed into the enclosure of the viral pygmy hippopotamus Moo Deng at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi Province. The incident occurred as the zoo experienced a surge in visitors due to Moo Deng's social media fame, prompting security concerns. This event highlights the ongoing challenges zoos face in ensuring animal safety amid increased public interest and engagement.
3 sourcesMar 21Low
- Culture· Americas
Demolition of Pulse Nightclub in Orlando Begins to Make Way for Memorial
The demolition of the Pulse nightclub site in Orlando commenced on March 18, 2026, to prepare for a permanent memorial honoring the 49 victims of the 2016 mass shooting. This significant step follows the City of Orlando's acquisition of the property in 2023 after previous efforts to establish a memorial faltered. The long-term implication is the anticipated opening of a $12 million memorial in fall 2027, aimed at fostering community healing and remembrance of the victims.
3 sourcesMar 21Low
- Culture· Americas
Rapper Mystikal Pleads Guilty to Third-Degree Rape in Louisiana Case
On March 17, 2026, rapper Mystikal pleaded guilty to third-degree rape in an Ascension Parish courtroom. This plea follows a lengthy legal battle stemming from a 2022 incident where he was accused of assaulting a woman at his home. The long-term implication includes a potential 25-year prison sentence, which may impact his career and the music industry’s response to artists facing legal issues.
3 sourcesMar 21Low
- Culture· Americas
Shaquille O'Neal Covers Funeral Costs for 12-Year-Old Victim of School Fight
Shaquille O'Neal has pledged to fully fund the funeral of Jada Zaniyah West, a 12-year-old girl who died following a fistfight near her school bus stop in Villa Rica, Georgia. This announcement comes amid ongoing investigations into the circumstances surrounding her death, which has drawn attention to issues of bullying and school safety. The long-term implications may include increased scrutiny of school policies and community responses to youth violence and mental health support.
3 sourcesMar 21Low