In partnership with Film Independent, the Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC) Hollywood Bureau is expanding its Fellowship for American Muslim Filmmakers.
Applications have opened for the 2025 fellowship, which will now offer two $10,000 grants to filmmakers accepted into Film Independent’s Artist Development programs who identify as American-Muslim. Recipients will be selected by the end of September.
“The Film Independent’s Artist Development programs continue to be a critical pipeline for uplifting stories from emerging communities,” said MPAC Hollywood Bureau Senior Vice President Sue Obeidi in a statement. “American-Muslim storytellers are an integral part of the fabric of entertainment media. These programs not only nurture talent but help shape a more inclusive, dynamic entertainment landscape that reflects the full richness of our communities.”
Marking the first MPAC Fellowship since former Film Independent President Josh Welsh died at age 62 in January, Obeidi said of their “dear friend and champion”: “His absence is missed. The MPAC Hollywood Bureau looks forward to continuing its collaboration with Film Independent under the leadership of Brenda Robinson and her team to advance opportunities for artists who are doing incredible work in narrative change.”
Acting President Robinson said, “The impact of storytelling on how we experience the world around us is more relevant than ever, and the commitment that Film Independent and MPAC share in lifting up talented storytellers from the American Muslim community takes on even greater meaning. We are thrilled to have this opportunity to grow our partnership even further by expanding the number of fellowships being offered to these deserving filmmakers and remain grateful to MPAC for their commitment to creating opportunity and access for emerging voices in this industry.”
Launched in 2021, former MPAC Fellows include 2022 inaugural grantee Sarah Mokh and 2023 Screenwriting Lab participant Karina Dandashi, both of whom’s films competed at SXSW this year.
