LikeMinds

Building Creative Community: An Interview with Rory McLoughlin, Founder of LikeMinds

In a city known for its fast pace and ever-evolving creative scene, one name has steadily risen as a quiet force for connection: Rory McLoughlin, filmmaker, executive producer, and the founder of LikeMinds. A networking platform that’s become a vital space for artists in Dubai and beyond.

We sat down with Rory to explore the journey behind LikeMinds, his personal career path, and why building community matters more than ever in today’s creative landscape.

1. Rory: A Creative Leader Building Something Bigger
Than Himself

Rory is the founder and driving force behind LikeMinds, a creative networking community that has quickly become a staple in Dubai’s artistic scene. As a filmmaker and director, Rory has worked with major names across the Middle East and internationally. His journey has taken him from an in- house filmmaker, to a freelance director, and now to his current role as an executive producer at Film X People.

Alongside his professional work, Rory has been steadily growing LikeMinds. It’s a project rooted in his belief that community and creativity go hand in hand; that art should bring us together, not divide us. For Rory, LikeMinds is more than an event, it’s a space where people can find purpose, support, and shared inspiration.

2. A Simple Idea with a Big Vision

The idea for LikeMinds came from Rory’s personal experience as a freelancer. He recognised how important it is, especially in a fast-paced, connection-driven city like Dubai, to build a strong network. He wanted to meet new people in the industry, but also create a space where creatives could connect beyond just business.

He noticed that while there were spaces for filmmakers, photographers, and other niche groups, there wasn’t one unifying place where all creatives could come together. That’s when LikeMinds was born – a platform where artists from every discipline and background could meet, share, and grow. The community’s motto, “Connect. Create. Educate.”, perfectly captures that mission.

3. Filling the Gaps in the Creative Landscape

Starting a creative network wasn’t something Rory originally planned, but it quickly became something he felt the industry truly needed. One of the most powerful aspects of creativity is how it thrives through shared experiences. Through seeing new work, hearing different perspectives, and simply being exposed to fresh ideas.

Rory explains how there is incredible talent in this region, but access to it can feel scattered. Art galleries and exhibitions exist, but they’re not always easy to find or accessible to everyone. Especially in a citiewith such a large expat population, it’s easy to feel like you’re creating in isolation.

Rory wanted to offer welcoming space where people could come together without pressure and just share their work, their thoughts, and their experiences in a meaningful way. In many ways, LikeMinds became that much-needed creative home.

4. Creating a Space for Real Connection

When asked what he’s most proud of, Rory points to the people. The impact of LikeMinds is most visible in the feedback he receives. Stories of members finding new collaborators, landing work, and, perhaps most importantly, forming lasting friendships.

In a city full of movement and transition, building relationships can be difficult. That’s why LikeMinds is so special; it merges professional growth with personal connection. Some people come to network, others come just to unwind and share an evening with like-minded creatives. There’s no pressure. It’s a space where people are free to engage however they choose.

5. From Small Gatherings to a Thriving Community

What began as a casual meet-up with a handful of people has grown into a vibrant and expanding community. Events now fill entire restaurant spaces, and the energy has only continued to build. With this growth, Rory felt a responsibility to keep the experience evolving and enriching.

That’s when the Creative Panel was introduced. These monthly panels bring together voices from across the industry to discuss real-world topics; what it’s like to work under pressure, how the industry is changing, and how to grow as a creative in today’s landscape. In July, for example, experienced filmmakers shared honest lessons and behind-the-scenes stories with the community.

Because Rory has created such a welcoming and open environment, attendees feel comfortable suggesting topics and giving feedback. From discussions about entry-level experiences to celebrating new personal projects, the anels continue to reflect the diversity and energy of the group itself.

6. Looking Ahead: Growing with Purpose

As LikeMinds continues to grow, Rory is letting the evolution happen naturally. He acknowledges that as it scales, things like sponsorships and new platforms may come into play, but for now, his focus is on maintaining the community’s core values and staying open to new ideas.

When asked what his favourite part of leading LikeMinds is, his answer is simple:
He gets to meet inspiring people, discover incredible work, and share in a creative space that feels meaningful. That, to him, is what makes it all worthwhile.

Through LikeMinds, Rory has built more than a networking event, he’s cultivated a space where creativity and community thrive together. As the group continues to grow, it stands as a testament to what can happen when people come together not just to connect, but to support, share, and inspire.

If you’re a creative in Dubai (or just someone looking for a thoughtful conversation and new ideas), LikeMinds might just be the place where your next collaboration begins.

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