Marketing Revolution: Igor Sergeev Launches the World’s First Promotion Marketplace — Papa Media

We sat down with Igor Sergeev — a serial entrepreneur and visionary behind Papa Media, a bold new platform reshaping the way brands interact with media, influencers, and the global PR industry. As CEO and founder, Igor’s mission is simple: build a seamless ecosystem where quality, credibility, and transparency come first. With more than a decade of experience across the Middle East and MENA markets, he’s determined to fix what’s broken in the world of marketing.

Journal: Igor, what makes Papa Media so different from other marketing platforms out there?

Igor Sergeev: Papa Media isn’t just another tool — it’s a new foundation. The industry today is chaotic: brands are bouncing between agencies, influencers, and freelancers, hoping something sticks. We’ve created a space where all the key players — PR pros, journalists, creators, agencies, and business owners — operate together with clear expectations and visible outcomes.

Our platform isn’t about hype. It’s about building real credibility. Brands finally know what they’re paying for and what they’ll get in return — whether it’s expert media placements, smart content strategy, or influencer campaigns that actually convert.

Journal: What’s the core challenge Papa Media is solving for businesses?

Igor Sergeev: A lack of trust and transparency. That’s the real issue. Companies are spending significant budgets but feel disconnected from the results. There’s too much guesswork.

Papa Media changes that. We built a results-driven infrastructure where everyone — from bloggers to agencies — is verified, reviewed, and performance-tracked. It’s not a directory. It’s a real-time system designed to deliver measurable outcomes and lasting value.

Journal: You speak of setting a new industry standard. How does that look in practice?

Igor Sergeev: We’ve built a full-scale ecosystem: digital PR, media coverage, influencer outreach, AI-driven tools — all under one roof.

Imagine this: instead of juggling five different providers, a brand comes to Papa Media and instantly accesses a curated network of top-tier professionals with analytics and recommendations baked in. It’s simplicity, powered by technology and built with strategy in mind.

Journal: What’s your vision for Papa Media over the next few years?

Igor Sergeev: We have a clear roadmap.

— In the next year, we’re deepening our footprint across the MENA region and expanding our partnerships.

— Within three years, we want to be the leading marketing infrastructure for businesses in the region — the go-to platform for smart, long-term growth.

— And within five years, Papa Media will be a fully autonomous ecosystem — a place where brands, creators, and media organically grow together.

We’re not just launching a product. We’re rewriting how the promotional world works.

Journal: Why do you think investors are showing so much interest?

Igor Sergeev: Because we’re solving a global problem. Businesses everywhere are stuck in a loop — spending money with no clear accountability.

Papa Media gives them structure, transparency, and tools that drive actual performance. That’s why investors recognize our potential to scale internationally and lead the next wave of innovation in marketing and PR.

Journal: How important is the professional community to Papa Media’s success?

Igor Sergeev: It’s everything. We’re co-creating this platform with the experts who live and breathe this industry — journalists, PR managers, agency leaders, and creators.

As more professionals join our ecosystem, our value multiplies. We’re building a trusted space together, and that sense of shared purpose makes all the difference.

Journal: And personally, what keeps you going on this mission?

Igor Sergeev: I love building things that matter. After 10+ years of working across Dubai and the wider region, I’ve seen the gaps — and the immense opportunity.

Papa Media is my contribution to the future of marketing. We’re here to elevate real talent, spotlight meaningful brands, and restore integrity to an industry that desperately needs it. That’s what fuels me every single day.