Art & Community: Building Cultural Bridges Through Storytelling - INDUSTRY TALK

​​Cinema has the power to amplify voices, tell authentic stories, and connect cultures — but behind every film, artist, and creative movement is a community. Art & Community: Building Cultural Bridges Through Storytelling explores how communities nurture artistic expression, support cultural storytelling, and create spaces where identity, creativity, and dialogue can flourish.

​​This panel brings together leaders, patrons, and professionals from the Arab American diaspora who champion art across film, music, media, and youth programs. From supporting emerging artists to fostering intergenerational connection, these community advocates illustrate how art becomes a tool for cultural diplomacy and identity-building — particularly within Southern California’s Egyptian American community.

​​Panelists include:

• ​​Laila Pence – Financial Advisor and patron of immigrant storytelling and young artists

• ​​Dr. Hisham Seify – Plastic Surgeon, Founder of Newport Plastic Surgery, and supporter of HAFF

• ​​Dr. Mahfouz M. Gereis, DDS – Dentist, television host, and community cultural advocate

• ​​Nariman Nasef – Director, Strategic Programs. IBM Chair, Egyptian American Organization

​​Moderator:
Essraa Nawar – Assistant Dean for Library Engagement and Program Initiatives at Chapman University; former President of the Egyptian American Organization; experienced moderator of cultural and film discussions.

​​Join us for a lively conversation on how communities sustain artists, elevate stories, and bridge cultures through creativity.

​​All ticket sales are final. Tickets are non-refundable and cannot be transferred, reassigned, or used by anyone other than the original purchaser.