Student-run film organization Studio 20Q is finalizing preparations for its highly anticipated 2025 Premiere, set to take place on April 18, 2025, at Novo Cinemas in Msheireb Galleria. The event will showcase nine original films produced over the past two grant cycles, featuring six short features, two animated shorts, and one short documentary—each reflecting the creativity and storytelling excellence of Northwestern Qatar’s emerging filmmakers.
For months, student filmmakers have poured their energy into crafting bold and thought-provoking stories that explore themes ranging from family dynamics and societal norms to beauty standards and the modeling industry. The annual premiere event celebrates the culmination of their projects, offering students the opportunity to showcase their work and engage with the broader community and industry.
"Storytelling is at the heart of what we do at Northwestern Qatar, and Studio 20Q exemplifies the creativity and rigor that define our students’ work," said Marwan M. Kraidy, dean and CEO of Northwestern Qatar. "Through filmmaking that blends technical skill with artistic vision, our students are not only honing their craft but also contributing to meaningful conversations on a global scale."
This year’s premiere, the 11th in the organization’s history, is accompanied by two other initiatives aimed at enhancing audience engagement and celebrating the filmmaking process. In the week leading up to the event, a behind-the-scenes exhibition on campus will offer an exclusive look at the making of this year’s films, featuring props, costumes, production stills, and behind-the-scenes footage that showcase the creative journey of the student filmmakers. To ensure broader access to the films, a second screening will be held on campus on April 22, providing students, faculty, and staff with another opportunity to experience the work of emerging student filmmakers.
"Hosting the premiere at Novo Cinemas offers a unique and exciting opportunity for our filmmakers to see their work on the big screen in a professional cinematic environment," said Dana Atrach, assistant professor and faculty advisor for the organization. "At the same time, we deeply appreciate the dedication of our facilities and
production teams, who have played a crucial role in making past premieres at Northwestern Qatar such a success. Their support has been invaluable in bringing these films to life."
In addition to film screenings, this year’s premiere will mark the launch of the Spotlight Series, an initiative to expand educational resources for student filmmakers. The series features short masterclasses with industry professionals, covering various topics from directing and screenwriting to cinematography and production design. These videos will be available on the organization’s website and social media platforms, offering accessible insights for students and aspiring filmmakers.
“Storytelling is at the heart of what we do at Northwestern Qatar, and Studio 20Q exemplifies the creativity and rigor that define our students’ work. Through filmmaking that blends technical skill with artistic vision, our students are not only honing their craft but also contributing to meaningful conversations on a global scale.”
The first round of masterclasses includes Elie Bou Khalil, Maysaa Al-Mumin, Ghassan Khairouz, Mostafa Sheshtawy, Zainah Loulou, Dana Abuhejleh, and Luma Mansi, each sharing their expertise and professional experiences.
Established in 2012, Studio 20Q is a vital part of the university’s vibrant student life and is one of many student-run organizations providing a platform for students to enhance their skills for evidence-based storytelling and experience filmmaking outside of production classes. In addition to providing funding opportunities for students, it organizes workshops, training sessions, and networking events throughout the year.
Behind this effort is the student-led board, which plays a key role in ensuring the smooth operation of productions, organizing educational workshops, and advising filmmakers throughout the process. This year’s board, including Jassim Al Kuwari (President), Jasmina Bondare (Vice President), Rishal Chowdury (Production Chair), Bayan Kobenova (Events Chair), and Ayushi Jha (Communication Chair), follows in the footsteps of their predecessors, including Maryam Al-Mohammed, Juyoung Kim, Malika Assanseitova, Lolwa Al-Jassim, and Jannat Malik, whose leadership shaped past last year’s grant cycle.
Alongside them, industry advisor and Northwestern Qatar alum Yanis Cherif has played an essential role in mentoring students from pre-production through post-production. Faculty and staff have also played a key role in supporting student filmmakers, offering mentorship, workshops, and technical expertise to help students refine their craft through the different stages of their projects.
“The NU-Q community has been instrumental in bringing these films to life,” Atrach added. “We are especially grateful to faculty mentors like Rana Kazkaz, Joao Queiroga, Nissryne Dib, Alessandra El Chanti, and Shakeeb Asrar, whose generosity, time, and expertise have had a lasting impact on students and their work. Our premieres would also not be possible without the incredible support of Cherry Rian and Vanessa Lina, whose dedication ensures the success of these events. Additionally, our Industry Advisor, Yanis Cherif, has been invaluable in mentoring these projects from pre-production to post-production. The films would not have been possible without his guidance and expertise.”
List of films premiering this year:
- Sign Aano? (short film) by Maria Joseph and Kadhi Al Makhmari
- Masna’ El ‘Arayes (short animation) by Aesha Hussein and Taniya Tleubayeva
- 3 cm (short film) by Haleema Khan, Katongo Lungu and Latifa Al-Neama
- Prince (short documentary) by Haris Malik and Fatima Rizwan
- Yom El Jum’a (short film) by Haya Al Kuwari and Jassim Al Kuwari
- Qadha’ w Qadar (short film) by Maryam Al-Mohammed and Vitória Teixeira
- Curly Girl Method (short film) by Eiman Nasir and Houra Haji
- Rage (short film) by Emanuel Kenga and Omar Al-Saadi
- Stumpy (short animation) by Moom Thahinah and Fariha Ahmed
For more information about Studio 20Q, click here.
