ZEINA SHANAH

Zeina has rich diverse experience in both the corporate and academic worlds of media, specifically in the MENA region, accumulated from 18 years of immersion in the fields of content, culture, marketing, and research. 
 
In her role as Head of Film Production at VOX Cinemas, Zeina co-built and curated the company’s first film slate of over 10 Arabic feature films by scouting for, co-developing, and co-producing projects while overseeing the creative, finance, legal and distribution aspects. She collaborated closely with prominent production houses across the region including Egypt, Saudi, UAE, Jordan, and Lebanon and also supported and worked directly with acclaimed and upcoming talented writers and independent producers. Working closely with the VOX distribution and exhibition teams, Zeina acquired significant knowledge of this region’s entertainment landscape and audiences. 
 
Zeina holds a PhD in Film and Media Studies from SOAS University of London. In her thesis, she conducts qualitative multidisciplinary research and analyzes subversive cinematic techniques in over fifty 21st century Arabic films. The study zooms in on the significant role of unconventional film forms in conveying meaning and provoking thought. 
 
Zeina published an article in The Middle East in London Magazine and has occasionally lectured at SOAS.