Mounia Akl, a highly accomplished and multifaceted individual, boasts a remarkable career as a Director and Writer, effortlessly navigating the complexities of her dual residence in both the vibrant city of Beirut and the cosmopolitan metropolis of New York, where she splits her time between the two locations.
Mounia's academic trajectory is a remarkable reflection of her capacity for interdisciplinary exploration, as she has had the privilege of pursuing two distinct yet complementary fields of study.
With a strong foundation in the built environment, Mounia earned a Bachelor of Architecture degree from the American University of Beirut, a renowned institution in Lebanon that is widely recognized for its excellence in architecture, engineering, and related disciplines.
In addition to her undergraduate studies, Mounia further expanded her creative horizons by pursuing a Master of Fine Arts degree in Directing at Columbia University in New York, a world-class institution that is celebrated for its rigorous programs in the arts, humanities, and social sciences.
This dual educational background has not only equipped Mounia with a broad range of skills and knowledge but also instilled in her a unique perspective that seamlessly bridges the realms of architecture, fine arts, and performance.
Mounia's illustrious career as a Director has been accompanied by a notable commitment to mentoring and imparting her knowledge to the next generation of cinematic visionaries, a testament to her dedication to fostering a culture of excellence in the film industry.
As a highly respected instructor, Mounia has had the privilege of sharing her expertise with students at the esteemed Northwestern University, located in the vibrant city of Chicago. Within the hallowed halls of this renowned institution, she has played a pivotal role in guiding and inspiring the next wave of filmmakers, equipping them with the skills and insights necessary to succeed in this competitive and ever-evolving field.
Through her teaching, Mounia has not only imparted her technical knowledge of film directing, but has also instilled in her students a deep appreciation for the artistic and creative aspects of the craft, as well as the importance of perseverance, creativity, and innovative storytelling.
As a result of her tireless efforts, Mounia's students have gone on to achieve great success in the film industry, and her influence can be seen in the many talented and accomplished filmmakers who have been inspired by her guidance and mentorship.
Notably, she has concurrently spearheaded a screenwriting laboratory at Columbia University, concurrently functioning as a teaching assistant to the renowned Richard Peña, a prestigious mentor whose expertise and guidance she was fortunate enough to receive and benefit from during her tenure at the esteemed institution.
Mounia's remarkable body of work is a true reflection of her exceptional talent and unwavering commitment to her craft, boasting an impressive portfolio that showcases her versatility and artistic range.
Her debut feature film, "Costa Brava, Lebanon" (2021),stands as a crowning achievement, a powerful testament to her skill and dedication as a filmmaker.
