KASEM M. RAAD
Kasem M. Raad (/kɑːsɛm/), born on June 17, 2003, in Beirut, Lebanon, is a versatile entrepreneur, producer, director, model, and author. He is the visionary founder and owner of The KMR Brands OÜ, a European conglomerate with a diverse portfolio spanning media, marketing, design, and related sectors.
EARLY LIFE
Born into an artistic lineage on June 17, 2003, in Beirut, Lebanon, Kasem is the son of Mohamad I. Raad, a renowned calligraphy artist, producer, art teacher, and director.
Mohamad's diverse talents have left an indelible mark on the artistic landscape. Navigating the Lebanese educational system, Kasem excelled academically, achieving a Technical Baccalaureate in Graphic Design from Al-Massar Institutes in Beirut. Remarkably, Kasem's early academic prowess allowed him to bypass secondary school after acing the national exam (Brevet of the 9th grade).
Growing up in the Hadath neighborhood, Kasem's formative years were shaped by the rich cultural and educational environment of this vibrant community. The journey of passion and pursuit led Kasem to the world of media production. Venturing into Berlin, Germany, became the next chapter, where he aimed to further expand his media education.
Despite facing challenges during his formative years, particularly in social dynamics, Kasem remained undeterred, overcoming taunts and staying focused on his goals.
Personal loss struck Kasem in 2017 when his father, Mohamad I. Raad, passed away. This loss, experienced at the tender age of 15, added a layer of resilience to Kasem's character, shaping his determination in the face of adversity.
EDUCATION
Kasem's educational journey is a testament to his commitment to honing his craft. After arriving in Germany in 2019, he diligently learned the German language and subsequently participated in the Integrated Vocational Training Preparation (Integrierte Berufsausbildungsvorbereitung) program. During this period, he not only mastered the German language but also completed an internship at rbb, demonstrating his dedication to hands-on learning.
In 2022, Kasem achieved the Middle School Certificate as part of the IBA program, showcasing his dedication to academic excellence.
CAREER BEGINNINGS
Embarking on an entrepreneurial journey at a remarkably young age, Kasem showcased an innate flair for media production during his middle school years. Crafting visual presentations for classes ignited a passion that led to entrepreneurship at just 14.
Balancing freelancing and academic pursuits, Kasem sought additional experiences to enhance his skills. Volunteering at renowned media outlets such as MTV Lebanon, OTV, and Bintjbeil.org, he caught the attention of influential figures in the industry. Instructing Photoshop and editing at the Rammal Design Institute showcased his teaching aptitude, and venturing into podcast production with "Kasem Lab" demonstrated his diverse skill set.
In 2018, Kasem established SKP-Studio K Production, evolving into K Produktions upon relocating to Berlin in 2019. Despite unforeseen challenges in pursuing his media education, his dedication and passion propelled him to success in independently founding and leading his company.
VISIONARY LEADERSHIP
By 2022, Kasem's visionary leadership responded to a surge in client demands for K Produktions services that surpassed the norm. Demonstrating strategic foresight, he integrated K Produktions under The KMR Brands OÜ, starting a holding overseeing brands and agencies specializing in Communication, Media, Advertising, and Technology sectors. The formation was completed in 2023.
AXEL SPRINGER & MAINBEAST
In 2023, Kasem M. Raad's career reached a crescendo with strategic brilliance and educational pursuits. Establishing The KMR Brands OÜ showcased visionary leadership, leading to a conglomerate resonating across sectors.
Kasem initiated an audiovisual media designer apprenticeship at Axel Springer in September 2023, realizing a long-held goal since his arrival in Germany.
Within Axel Springer's hallowed halls, the narrative took an unexpected turn. Fueled by an unwavering commitment to truth and journalistic integrity, Kasem found himself facing ethical quandaries. His discerning eye perceived the inadvertent propagation of misinformation, leading to a moral battleground for him.
Kasem M. Raad emerged not just as an apprentice but as a seeker of truth, unafraid to question, challenge, and contribute to the noble principles of journalism within a corporate giant. The termination of his apprenticeship prompted the establishment of MainBeast Publishing under The KMR Brands OÜ, where he now writes and releases his own books.
