DME Media Schools’ training and placement cell successfully organised and conducted its HR Conclave, MediaConnect 2.0 on 27th March 2026, featuring seasoned professionals from over six different media franchises, the event was held in order to students to get closer to and familiarise themselves with the professional, corporate landscape so that they may be able to navigate professionally more smoothly in coming times. The theme of this year’s conclave was Conscious UnBossing: Why is Gen Z rejecting middle management? All the speakers spoke with the students about different work environments in their fields and what today’s workplaces are like. They also shared how new graduates can adjust, fit in, and work comfortably in these spaces.
The event began with Ms. Garima Jain welcoming everyone and introducing MediaConnect and its concept. This was followed by Dr. Parul Mehra, Head of the Media Department, who delivered the opening remarks for the conclave. She spoke about this year’s theme, what it means to be a young aspiring professional in today’s media industry, and the importance of adapting to and understanding modern work environments. She was then joined by faculty members Dr. Vishal Sahai and Dr. Yamini Khullar to felicitate the esteemed guests of the afternoon.
Mr. Amitabh Chakraborty, HR Head at Bharat Express, was the first to take the stage and address the audience. He spoke about the importance of knowledge for a professional—especially understanding one’s own strengths and weaknesses, being aware of the work environment, and practicing self-awareness and introspection. According to him, these are key qualities that make an efficient media professional.
He was followed by Ms. Videsha Kemkar, Editor at WION, who engaged the students by asking, “What does success mean to you?” and interacted with them individually. She explained how success is defined differently by different people and generations, and how Gen Z’s idea of success often differs from more traditional perspectives, along with what it demands from them.
Next, Ms. Renu Mattoo, Head HR at Amar Ujala, took the stage and spoke about the behavioural patterns, discipline, and learning styles of Gen Z employees, and how these traits are influencing today’s workplace.
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Mr Simarjeet Singh Bhatia, Director and CEO of Themes Event Management, followed next and shared his experiences navigating the event management industry and his passion for it. He talked about his experience about working with Gen Z and their action and goal-driven work ethic along with their general fiery spirit.
Followed by Ms. Neha Vadra, HR head at My FM, has a more positive outlook and shared a fact about the radio industry where it was revealed that 47.5% of the global population still tunes into the radio every day, reflecting on how the industry is as lively as ever. Following each individual address, Dr Parul Mehra joined the speaker on stage to act as a bridge between them and the students, and the conclave finally kicked off.
The discussion went off to a great start immediately with the speakers and students enthusiastically trading questions and answers. The first notable question was “Why are Gen Z underestimated so much?” The speakers answered this by explaining that they aren’t believed to be underestimated at all, and they do their absolute best to deliver efficient work results given that they’re properly guided through the process. The next prominent question raised was “What is the change that has happened overall in the radio industry?” The response to this was surrounding the hierarchy difference. Radio has evolved in terms of hierarchy. They now tell the higher authority directly about their problems instead of dealing with more formal ways. The third main question was “How important is middle management in corporate settings, especially with Gen Z?” The guests tackled this question by discussing their importance for being there for Gen Z should any situation arise and guiding them.
Some worthwhile quotes said by the speakers during the conclave were also noted. “Focus on polishing one skill, and you’ll excel, and this doesn’t happen with AI” – Neha Vadera. “Live and breathe in the position you dream of,” Amitabh Chakraborthy said.
Dr Vishal Sahai wrapped up the conclave by delivering a profound conclusive speech and vote of thanks. He talked about busy schedules, his own experience and time in HR, the importance of research and the need for dedication and work ethic to deliver whatever the industry asks of you.
The conclave proved to be a truly worthwhile experience, aiming to bridge the gap between where students currently stand and where the industry expects them to be—highlighting the difference between what is being learned and what is actually required in the professional world.