As part of our interview series with Digital Media thought leaders, we talked to Dayna Moon, Account Executive in Publisher Development at PubMatic, a company that enables premium publishers to realize the full potential of their digital assets. Moon told us what she thinks about Film Annex's initiatives in Afghanistan and shared her ideas about digital media, technology, and education. Film Annex is currently building Internet classrooms in Afghanistan with the mission to improve the Afghan education system and the economy of Afghanistan. Today, we finished the construction of our first classroom.

Film Annex: What do you think of Film Annex's initiatives in Afghanistan? 

Dayna Moon: Film Annex's initiatives in Afghanistan are both inspiring and life changing. Teaching and learning skills that these children can build a better life on will not only lead to a more educated Afghan society but create opportunities for generations to come – to build a foundation that families can secure a foundation and a lasting education.

F.A. Digital and social media have changed the political scenarios of several countries in the last two years. Can they also affect the educational and financial landscape? If yes, how so?

D.M. Digital and social media have had a profound impact on educational and financial landscapes alike because knowledge has always been a powerful weapon. Providing insight and bringing exposure to the conditions and improvements that are already underway in this region will also bring teachers and educators willing to use their skills aide in this important effort.

F.A. Is digital media the most efficient source that can educate the Afghan youth?

D.M. Digital media may be the efficient source at this time but using a combination of all digital channels will ensure comprehensive messaging to the public.

F.A. Can digital media and advertising sustain financially upcoming countries like Afghanistan and their educational system?

D.M. Digital media can help sustain financially upcoming countries but in no way should it replace any ongoing efforts and should be used as an additional support mechanism.

F.A. How can digital media serve the emancipation of women and provide them with an independent education, connectivity, and financial freedom?

D.M. Digital media can serve the emancipation of women and provide connectivity and financial freedom through both education and outside exposure to the conditions these women are facing every day. An education is one of – if not the most valuable gift that can be given.

F.A. What is your opinion on investing in the education of the Afghan youth and women by building schools in Afghanistan?

D.M. An education is one of – if not the most valuable gift that can be given. A monetary gift can impact a life but an education can change the entire course of a culture, city, and country.

F.A. Our goal is to increase the average yearly income in Afghanistan from $900 to $8000. How long do you think this will take?

D.M. The more exposure and outreach that occurs – the faster the goal can be reached. Mountains can't be moved in days but after a sustainable period of effort – miracles can happen. 

F.A. Veterans have a prominent role in the Film Annex initiatives in Afghanistan. What is your opinion on (G.I.V.E.) - Global Initiative for Veteran Entrepreneurship and building veteran business opportunities?

D.M. Many veterans returning to their homes today are faced with issues that outsiders can't and do not understand.By providing a new outlet for vets to exercise their talents – Film Annex has given new life to a deteriorating situation and given new hope to soldiers that may have lost their way in the struggle to end terrorism.