L.A. Comic Con will feature a pivotal panel, “MENA Representation in Arts & Entertainment,” on October 6 from 3:00 PM to 3:50 PM in Panel Room 407. This panel will spotlight the voices of Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) Americans, showcasing the increasing strength of their representation in the arts and entertainment industries.

The panel brings together a lineup of MENA American artists and entertainers, each bringing unique insights and experiences from their respective fields. Featured panelists include:

• Yas Modares Ghasiri: Actor and writer, known for his compelling storytelling and performances.
• Esraa Darwish: DGA assistant director with experience in both television and film production.
• Sarah Fatemi: Comedian, recognized for her humor and cultural commentary.
• Kaveh Taherian: Illustrator and podcaster, who merges art and discussion in innovative ways.
• Jasmin Joestar: Acclaimed cosplayer and content creator, celebrated for her creativity and engagement with fans.
• TJ Searl: Graphic designer, known for his impactful visual storytelling.
• Abdallah Jasim: Comedian, who uses his platform to address cultural themes through humor.

What to Expect

The panel will be moderated by Paul Zecharia, an actor and filmmaker who brings a wealth of experience to the discussion. Attendees can look forward to an engaging dialogue about the significance of MENA representation in the arts, the challenges that artists face, and the progress made within the industry.

The conversation aims to shed light on the importance of MENA voices in shaping narratives, breaking stereotypes, and enriching the cultural landscape of entertainment. While MENA representation is gaining traction, there is still much work to ensure these voices are heard and valued across all platforms.

Why It Matters

This panel resonates strongly with me with my Iranian background. When I spoke at on my panel at WonderCon, my focus was on cultural impacts and representation in video games. I have seen things improving, one example being the treatment of the Prince of Persia franchise this year. The detail and care in the story of Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, which launched earlier this year, was amazing. The influence of Persian music, history, mythology, and voice acting was more than it has ever been. I want to see representation like this continue. It is panels like these help contribute in elevating our collective voices to be better heard.

After the panel discussion, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a Q&A session. Join the conversation at L.A. Comic Con. Hear firsthand from these talented individuals. Contribute to the ongoing dialogue about diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry. This panel is a must-attend for anyone interested in exploring the intersection of culture, art, and representation.

For more information about L.A. Comic Con and the “MENA Representation in Arts & Entertainment” panel, visit L.A. Comic Con’s official website.

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