May 29, 2014

We are excited to announce the dozen writers who have been selected to participate in next week’s screenwriters workshop with Disney/ABC Television Group, in partnership with MPAC. Representing some of the top talent across the country, the private workshop will give aspiring American Muslim television writers an opportunity to be competitive for the network’s prestigious writers program.

“This is a significant step for both ABC and MPAC,” said Deana Nassar, MPAC’s Hollywood Liaison. “We are looking to make a real impact on Hollywood and the way to do that is by adding diverse and unique voices from all walks of life, including American Muslims.”

Selected from a pool of more than 35 applicants, the finalists are:

• Shireen Abdullah - Dallas, TX
• Sajid Ahmed - Fremont, CA
• Hala Alsalman - Montreal, Canada
• Sabeen Amanat -  Montville, NJ
• Nia Malika Dixon - Los Angeles, CA
• Basima Elhasan - Laguna Niguel, CA
• Kasem Khan - Cerritos, CA
• Samia Khan - Los Angeles, CA
• Nura Maznavi - Chicago, IL
• Samira Noorali - Austin, TX
• Sabir Pirzada - Los Angeles, CA
• Nasser Samara - Los Angeles, CA

The applicants were asked to submit a half-hour comedy or a one-hour drama spec script of a broadcast or cable network TV series that is currently airing on Television. Participants were selected based on the strongest writing samples. MPAC looks forward to investing in these talented voices who can help turn the tide in portrayals and present nuanced stories and diverse perspectives.

MPAC's Hollywood Bureau serves as a professional resource to the entertainment industry by providing reliable and accurate information on Islam, Muslims and interfaith relations to the Hollywood community. The bureau also helps Hollywood professionals connect with creative talent, including emerging Muslim filmmakers, writers and actors.