That afternoon, the large conference hall buzzed with anticipation, a low hum of murmurs filled the air as journalists adjusted their microphones and tested their cameras.

Bright flashes from photographers sparked across the room, casting quick bursts of light on the polished podium set for the day’s speaker.

Rows of reporters, some from the most prestigious media houses and others from hungry online tabloids, filled every available seat.

Notepads flipped open, and fingers hovered over ...