Let's Have Funn: learn from region's creative talents and industry leaders in new online series

Created by Sharjah creative hub Funn, the sessions run throughout the week

Artist Ali Kashwani, Saeed Al Emadi, Mona Al Tamimi. Jeffrey Biteng / The National, Jeff Topping / The National, Courtesy Mona Al Tamimi

Regional creative talents and industry leaders will take part in a series of online discussions.

The Let's Have Funn series, which runs October 12 to 16, aims to inspire the next generation of Arab multi-media talent with panel sessions looking at ways to enter and thrive in creative industries.

Organised by the Sharjah media education hub Funn, the event features a strong contingent of Emirati talent including actress and producer Samira Ahmad, artist Ahlam Al Ahmad and photographer Mona Al Tamimi.

All session are 60 minutes and conducted in Arabic, with the exception of the final night's discussion. Entry is free upon registration on the Funn website.

Here are some of the discussions taking place during the week:

1. What is your muse? (Monday, October 12 at 9.30pm)

Creativity is often bred by example. This is the message of the opening session featuring Emirati artists Aysha Saif Al Hemrani, Ali Kashwani, Saeed Alemadi and fashion designer Maitha Hamdan. Each speaker will shed light on how mentors have led them to success in their respective fields.

2. Acting Performances (Wednesday, October 14 at 8pm)

From auditions to nailing that crucial scene, pick up insider tips from some of the Gulf’s most in-demand actors. Emirati actor and producer Samira Ahmed will join Kuwaiti counterparts Ahmed Iraj and Khaled Amin as they recall how they made their marks in the competitive industry.

3. Photographer’s Challenges (Thursday, October 15 at 8pm)

Photographers Mona Al Tamimi and Ola Allouz join fellow Emirati visual artist Ahlam Ahmed to discuss their respective journeys from local to international exhibitions. From how to create a winning concept to what gear to use, this is an must see session for camera buffs.

4. The Effect of the Pandemic on the Film Industry (Friday, October 16 at 8pm)

The final session looks at the bigger picture. Saudi Film Festival director Ahmed Al Mulla joins his counterpart, Guilio Vita, from Italy’s La Guarimba Film Festival and Novo Cinemas chief executive Debbie Kristiansen for a wide ranging discussion on how the pandemic affected the film industry and how it can be bounce back in both the short and long term.