MOCAfest
My relationship with the World Islamic Economic Forum and MOCAfest began in 2011 in Astana, Kazakhstan. This led to me moving to Kuala Lumpur to work more closely on the festival and related programming. Ten years and several countries later, I am still collaborating on the projects!
Johor Bahru
After speaking and performing at the WIEF and Marketplace of Creative Arts in Astana, I produced and curated the next edition of the festival in Johor Bahru, which included 30 international artists, films, workshops and master classes. Featured artists included Haji Noor Deen, Brahim Fribgane, Azren Azimuddin, Alsarah, and Nighat Chaodhry.
Young Fellows and ThinkTalk!
While living in Malaysia from 2012 - 2013, I also managed the Young Fellows leadership program and developed new programs like ThinkTalk!–a community dialogue session and Translations–new interpretations of Sufi poetry through music. In 2013, I managed the Young Fellows program in South Africa with 20 global participants.
London and MOCAfellows
Later in 2013, I helped evolve Marketplace of Creative Arts into MOCAfest and launched MOCAfellows, a professional development program for emerging artists. Producing both of these in London helped us expand our network and continue to grow.
Kuala Lumpur and Beyond
As my journey took me away from Kuala Lumpur, I continued to return to Malaysia to collaborate with WIEF, MOCAfest and the global network of artists, creatives and changemakers.