Rawy Films is a Berlin based collective of passionate filmmakers and cinephiles on a mission to cultivate a community around independent SWANA (Southwest Asia and North Africa) films. We aim at scouting raw talents and untold stories, bringing them to life on the big screen through curating Pop-up Cinema events in iconic arthouse cinemas internationally and regionally. We aim at bridging cultures by introducing international audiences to SWANA films and amplifying the reach of regional filmmakers.
Our Pop-up Cinema events create a space for community connection, cultural preservation, and artistic expression. By showcasing regional films and sparking dialogue, we preserve cultural heritage and promote artistic engagement.
Hana Khalil, a filmmaker originally from Cairo, Egypt, and co-founder of Rawy Films. Currently based in Berlin, she curates Rawy’s Pop-up Cinema programs. Hana is drawn to the power of images to tell stories. Ever since a young age, she felt the urge to document moments that she wished could have lasted. Later on, and as she took photography for a serious hobby, she realised that capturing and sharing images was an intrinsic need for self-expression. Currently pursuing her studies in the Camera Department at Berlin's Filmarche, Hana has garnered experience as a DoP, editor, and director in a range of short films and documentaries.
Omar Zaaza, co-founder of Rawy Films, a technical consultant by day and the driving force behind Rawy's website. He is passionate about the music and film scenes. Organising several music events in Cairo’s alternative scene. Inviting European artist to share the stage with Egypt’s hidden talent. Allowing a different sound to emerge in the region. Now, he is embarking on a new mission to establish a space for independent filmmakers from the SWANA region to showcase their work by opening up new spaces and sharing it with a wider crowd.
Carina Scherer is a Berlin-based freelance journalist, screenwriter, and chief editor for Rawy Films magazine. Her background in cultural studies has led her to work and study in different parts of the world. As a journalist, she interviews people who inspire her on topics such as anti-capitalism, decolonisation, and human rights. She’s also a music, literature, and film critic and publishes in various newspapers/magazines. Before getting into screenwriting, she was involved in theatre projects, working with different collectives in Germany and Switzerland. Her approach is based on the idea that it’s not so much about how a story is told, but who tells it.
Omar Rifaat is a multimedia art director, interior decorator and head of design at Rawy Films. With extensive international experience, Omar brings a unique perspective to every project. Their expertise in various media, from photography and video to digital advertising and print, ensures that their work is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.
Hana Khalil, a filmmaker originally from Cairo, Egypt, and co-founder of Rawy Films. Currently based in Berlin, she curates Rawy’s Pop-up Cinema programs. Hana is drawn to the power of images to tell stories. Ever since a young age, she felt the urge to document moments that she wished could have lasted. Later on, and as she took photography for a serious hobby, she realised that capturing and sharing images was an intrinsic need for self-expression. Currently pursuing her studies in the Camera Department at Berlin's Filmarche, Hana has garnered experience as a DoP, editor, and director in a range of short films and documentaries.
Omar Zaaza, co-founder of Rawy Films, a technical consultant by day and the driving force behind Rawy's website. He is passionate about the music and film scenes. Organising several music events in Cairo’s alternative scene. Inviting European artist to share the stage with Egypt’s hidden talent. Allowing a different sound to emerge in the region. Now, he is embarking on a new mission to establish a space for independent filmmakers from the SWANA region to showcase their work by opening up new spaces and sharing it with a wider crowd.
Carina Scherer is a Berlin-based freelance journalist, screenwriter, and chief editor for Rawy Films magazine. Her background in cultural studies has led her to work and study in different parts of the world. As a journalist, she interviews people who inspire her on topics such as anti-capitalism, decolonisation, and human rights. She’s also a music, literature, and film critic and publishes in various newspapers/magazines. Before getting into screenwriting, she was involved in theatre projects, working with different collectives in Germany and Switzerland. Her approach is based on the idea that it’s not so much about how a story is told, but who tells it.
Omar Rifaat is a multimedia art director, interior decorator and head of design at Rawy Films. With extensive international experience, Omar brings a unique perspective to every project. Their expertise in various media, from photography and video to digital advertising and print, ensures that their work is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.
meet the team
meet the team
© 2024 Rawy Films
