Author: Paolo Petrocelli
Born: 15.10.1984
Bio: Paolo Petrocelli (PhD, EMBA, FRSA) is a global cultural and performing arts leader, academic and author, driven by the belief that culture, arts and education are powerful forces for growth, development and transformation worldwide.

Currently, he serves as Head of Dubai Opera, leading one of the most prestigious performing arts institutions in the Middle East.

Recognized as a leading voice in the cultural sector, Paolo has been named among the Top 100 most influential personalities in Dubai and one of the Top 30 leaders under 40 in the Middle East by Arabian Business. Fast Company listed him among the most creative personalities in the Region, while the French luxury house Cartier named him as a Luminary Thinker.

In 2023, he was nominated a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum for his continued contributions to arts and cultural development on an international scale. The think tank Friends of Europe selected him as a European Young Leader, recognizing him among the 40 most influential young personalities in Europe. Fortune also named him among Italy’s 40 most influential personalities under 40, marking the first time a cultural leader ever selected.

With over 15 years of leadership experience, Paolo is a dynamic and innovative cultural executive, recognized for his expertise in international relations, global cultural affairs, and arts management. He has held senior roles across public and private institutions, collaborating with global leaders in the performing arts sector.

Deeply committed to cultural diplomacy, he serves in institutional roles across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and the US, using music and the arts to foster dialogue and connection. He is the Founder and President of EMMA for Peace, one of the world’s largest nonprofit organizations promoting peace through music diplomacy. He also serves as Founder and Honorary President of the Italian Youth Association for UNESCO, Cultural Diplomacy Officer for the World Summit of Nobel Peace Laureates and Cultural Advisor to Coldplay.

Passionate about education and mentorship, Paolo lectures at leading universities, including Yale, MIT, NYU and Université Paris-Sorbonne, helping shape the next generation of cultural leaders.

He is a contributor to Forbes and Huffington Post, a TEDx Speaker and a LinkedIn Top Voice.