Programs
Programs
Fellowships
In partnership with Film Independent, the MPAC® Hollywood Bureau’s Writing Fellowship awards a $10,000 grant to an American Muslim writer accepted into Film Independent’s Screenwriting Lab, Episodic Lab, or Project Involve.
This Fellowship is designed to elevate original voices and deepen industry investment in Muslim creatives. By backing emerging talent with funding, mentorship, and institutional support, the fellowship creates a meaningful path for stories that reflect the richness and complexity of our communities.
“Film Independent and MPAC have a long relationship and a shared commitment to nurturing talented filmmakers from the American Muslim community. We’re thrilled to build on that relationship with the launch of the MPAC Hollywood Bureau Writing Fellowship.”
Josh Welsh
Former President,
Film Independent
“The impact of storytelling is more relevant than ever, and the shared commitment of Film Independent and MPAC to uplift American Muslim storytellers is deeply meaningful. We’re thrilled to expand this partnership and grateful to MPAC for championing access and opportunity for emerging voices.”
Brenda Robinson
President,
Film Independent
“Receiving the MPAC Hollywood Bureau Fellowship on top of becoming a Film Independent Project Involve Writer Fellow was such a huge honor. It supported my creative endeavors and helped me build community in what can be an isolating space as an American Muslim artist.”
Bushra Burney
Screenwriter
Screenwriting Labs
These intimate, genre-specific labs are designed to discover and nurture exceptional Muslim writers. In partnership with studios, production companies, and cultural institutions, participants develop their scripts with hands-on guidance from top screenwriters and executives. The labs open doors to professional networks, sharpen creative voices, and connect promising storytellers with decision-makers seeking fresh, authentic perspectives.
Past labs have been held in collaboration with Disney/ABC Television Group (TV Comedy), The Aspen Institute (AI), Wise Entertainment (TV Drama), Wayfarer Studios (Feature Film), Practice Wonder (Children’s Media), Familiar Stranger (Features & TV Pilots), Endless Media (TV), and The Blackhouse Foundation (TV / Black Muslim Writers).
These partnerships reflect our shared goal: to develop bold Muslim voices and bring fresh, authentic stories to screens everywhere.
Participating in the Television Screenwriting Lab for Black Muslim Writers was a pivotal early step in my career. It gave me the confidence to continue pursuing this path and a vital stamp of industry recognition. The lab also created a rare and lasting community of Black Muslim filmmakers. That momentum contributed to my later acceptance into the Sundance x Disney Muslim Artist Fellowship.”
Jumai Yusuf
Director, Writer, Editor and Producer
