Maya Labban

Maya Labban is a philanthropist and cultural strategist committed to reshaping perceptions of the Arab world through storytelling. With over 15 years of experience at the intersection of human rights, media, and policy—including key roles at the United Nations, Apple, and Meta—she brings a unique global perspective to the power of inclusive narratives. As a leader at the Arab Film and Media Institute, Maya champions Arab and Arab American filmmakers, curating programs and initiatives that spotlight complex, underrepresented stories. Her work focuses on empowering women and minority voices in film and television, pushing for a more expansive and authentic media landscape.

Alana Hadid

Alana Hadid is a creative director, activist, and storyteller committed to justice and representation. She leads creative direction at Watermelon Pictures, a film production and distribution company focused on changing the narrative around Palestine and amplifying underrepresented voices. Alana is the co-author of two forthcoming books centered on Palestinian identity and history, and the host of The Seeds, a podcast exploring the lives of influential people who are planting the seeds for a new world. Her activism bridges culture and advocacy, using art and media to amplify marginalized voices.

Aizzah Fatima

Moderator

Aizzah Fatima is part of the ISF film team that uplifts Muslim storytellers as their Artist Development & Partnerships Manager where she oversees film programs and collaborations with other organizations to uplift voices that focus on narrative change in film. As an award-winning filmmaker, actor, and comedian her work lives at the nexus of comedy and social justice. She is currently touring with her standup show Muslim Girls DTF: Discuss Their Faith with Palestinian-American comedian Atheer Yacoub. Her first feature film Americanish which she co-wrote, produced, and starred in was picked up for distribution by Sony International. She's appeared on over a dozen TV shows including on HBO, Hulu, CBS, and NBC. 

Rohi Mirza Pandya

Rohi Mirza Pandya is a Producer and Founder of the South Asian House. Rohi is an award-winning Pakistani-Filipina creative producer in film, television and theater for 25+ years. She is a co-founder of Box Office Guru Media, a multicultural marketing agency whose clients are major Hollywood and Bollywood studios; creating 500+ strategic marketing campaigns which include event producing film and theater premieres. She is also a partner of the film group, RASA which is actively exploring projects featuring strong female protagonists, narratives centered around social justice, and stories that portray Muslim characters in positive and empowering roles.