ELEVATE INNOVATE EMPOWER
At the Center for Entertainment Arts (CEA), we are committed to providing world-class education that is grounded in industry relevance and driven by innovation. Our leadership team ensures the development of cutting-edge programs by building strong relationships with both academic and industry partners. The academic team, with their global experience and passion for education, combines hands-on training with strategic knowledge to equip students for success in the digital arts.
ACADEMIC TEAM
MICHAEL BRADBURY
DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION
With a BSc Hons in Game Design, PGCE, NPQSL, MA in Education, and currently pursuing a PhD in Digital Transformational Education, Michael is a seasoned expert in gaming education. As the first Unreal Authorized Instructor in the UAE, he plays a pivotal role in shaping Dubai’s growing gaming ecosystem. Michael collaborates with industry leaders and UAE governmental departments to deliver cutting-edge Unreal Engine training. He is a visionary in developing advanced curriculum structures and delivery systems that empower instructors through access to comprehensive supplemental content libraries, fortifying pedagogical methodologies and ensuring the highest quality in education.
PRIYANK MURARKA
DIRECTOR OF VFX & 3D PROGRAMS
Priyank, CEA’s Visual Effects and 3D Programs Director, is driving the future of VFX and 3D animation education through cutting-edge curricula and mentorship. With over a decade of experience across VFX artist roles and senior production management, Priyank designs programs that blend technical expertise with creative storytelling. His courses prepare students for careers in the entertainment industry, drawing on experience from global blockbusters and critically acclaimed series. Priyank fosters student success through guest workshops, exposure to the latest VFX and 3D tools, and career development opportunities, ensuring industry readiness.
SUBADARSHI TRIPATHY
DIRECTOR OF FILM PROGRAMS
Subhadarshi is a seasoned media and entertainment executive with over 20 years of experience in developing and implementing global content platforms. His expertise in trend analysis, combined with collaboration with top-tier production teams, has driven numerous high-value projects to success. Subhadarshi’s accolades include the prestigious Prix Jeunesse, Best Talk Show Award at the Asian Television Awards, and serving as lead animator for India’s first animated feature film. His animated short, Another Reminder, was recognized at the Hiroshima and Mumbai International Film Festivals, cementing his reputation as a leader in animated content creation.
SEAN LYNCH
DIRECTOR OF GAME PROGRAMS
Sean Lynch is the Director of Games Programs at CEA, with a Master’s in Computational Media Design merging Computer Science and Fine Arts. A lifelong gaming enthusiast, Sean’s experience spans the history of modern gaming—from 8-bit and early 2D genres to cutting-edge applications in Unity and Unreal Engine. He has designed escape rooms and taught programming, game design, and educational games. A published author in Information Visualization, Human-Computer Interaction, and Computational Music, Sean brings a research-driven approach to game education. Inspired by nature and the tactile aspects of gaming, he leads students in exploring alternative interfaces and interactive experiences, believing game technology will shape modern communication and transform future human interaction.
SIDDHARTH ROY
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF FILM PROGRAMS
Siddharth Roy, Associate Director of Film Programs at the Centre for Entertainment Arts (CEA), plays a pivotal role in shaping the curriculum for Film and Production Management programs. With a strong background as an educator and film professional, Siddharth integrates industry insights with academic rigor, ensuring students gain real-world knowledge and skills. His focus on crafting a comprehensive learning experience prepares students for successful careers in the entertainment industry. Siddharth’s contributions help bridge the gap between theory and practical application, positioning CEA as a leader in film education.
LEADERSHIP TEAM
DIWAKAR GANDHI
CO FOUNDER & CO CEO
Diwakar Gandhi, an alumnus of the University of British Columbia and the University of Birmingham, has over 15 years of experience guiding international students. At the Centre for Entertainment Arts (CEA), Diwakar’s passion for education as a transformative force drives his efforts to create strong industry connections and emphasize skill-based learning, teamwork, and critical analysis. His leadership ensures that CEA’s curriculum prepares students for competitive careers while fostering career readiness and leadership in the entertainment industry. Diwakar also focuses on emerging global education sectors, viewing education as the spark that drives innovation, economic diversification, and the transformation of industries worldwide. His commitment to aligning education with real-world demands positions CEA as a leader in creative education, empowering students to fuel growth in the global economy.
PETER WALSH
CO FOUNDER & CO CEO
Peter Walsh, with a global background across North America, Europe, and the Middle East, brings a future-forward perspective to the entertainment industry. His career includes key roles at Electronic Arts, Microsoft Game Studios, and Sony, where he contributed to groundbreaking innovations in game development. As a leader at the Centre for Entertainment Arts (CEA), Peter focuses on leveraging emerging technologies and anticipating industry shifts to ensure students are prepared for the future. He emphasizes the importance of creating an adaptable education infrastructure that evolves with the rapid rate of technological change. Peter’s approach equips students with the tools needed to succeed in a fast-evolving digital entertainment landscape, fostering a mindset that embraces innovation and adaptability. By aligning education with the future of the industry, Peter ensures CEA graduates are ready to lead and excel in an ever-changing world.
MABELLE SAWAQED
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Mabelle Sawaqed is a seasoned expert in international business development and market entry strategies, with 15 years of experience expanding businesses globally. As Chief Operating Officer at the Centre for Entertainment Arts (CEA), Mabelle oversees international operations, new campus launches, and business development initiatives. Before joining CEA, she served as Senior Trade Officer (Education) at the Embassy of Canada in the UAE, helping Canadian institutions enter the UAE and MENA markets. Mabelle’s extensive experience spans the public and private sectors, having worked in private equity as a Business Development Manager. Her efforts in fostering partnerships and importing education services have been instrumental in her career. In 2023, she was named “Woman Business Leader of the Year” by Women Entrepreneur Magazine for her visionary leadership and achievements in the global education sector. Mabelle leverages her deep knowledge of the MENA education and arts sectors to expand CEA’s global presence.
MATTHEW HOLDENRIED
CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER
Matthew Holdenried, a content specialist with extensive experience in the gaming industry, has worked with brands like Electronic Arts, Warner Bros, and Square Enix. Since joining the Centre for Entertainment Arts (CEA) in 2019, Matthew has witnessed the transformative power of mentorship, community, and collaboration, which now drives his strategic approach. His methodology emphasizes the importance of deep interactions between students, mentors, and peers to foster self-discovery and professional growth. Matthew’s content-driven strategies showcase how education, storytelling, and personal connection can shape thriving careers in the creative industries.
FELIX WONG
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Felix, a CPA and CGA, brings extensive expertise in finance and accounting to the Centre for Entertainment Arts (CEA), where he oversees financial management, strategic planning, and reporting. His leadership ensures the financial health of CEA while supporting its mission of delivering world-class education. With a focus on long-term growth, Felix’s strategic direction enables CEA to expand its impact in the creative industries. Outside of work, Felix enjoys snowboarding and spending time with family, reflecting his commitment to both personal and professional balance.