Name: Rida Qadeer

Recipient Year: 2026

Major: Production / Directing – Narrative (MFA)

Description: Rida Qadeer is an award-winning filmmaker whose love of storytelling took root early through Sunday morning cartoons, poring over novels at her local library, and making iMovie projects with her cousins. Growing up in greater Los Angeles, she quickly became exposed to the entertainment industry and went on to specialize in Visual Arts and International Business at UC San Diego. As an editor and director, Qadeer is drawn to the paradoxical nature of life, reimagining traditional narratives through the lens of comedy and contemporary social commentary. A distinguished recipient of the Suraj Israni Center for Cinematic Arts Fellowship, Qadeer has gone on to direct her own narrative shorts that have been featured at the World Culture International Film Festival, Movie Screeners Club, and Simi Film Fest. She currently works as an Assistant Director and is the founder of Director's Notes, a newsletter and upcoming web series dedicated to supporting and guiding those just starting out in the entertainment industry. This fall, she will begin her MFA in Narrative Directing at the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television. With a keen eye for story, a sharp comedic voice, and a drive for authentic representation, Rida Qadeer is a rising talent poised to leave a lasting impact on the film industry.

School Name: UCLA

Sponsor: Kosar and Javed Mohammed Film Scholarship

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rida-qadeer-41aa801aa/