Each month, DARC highlights one of our incredible Members and one of the many exciting projects they’re working on. This month, our Member Highlight is of Deena Alsaweer, a local film & video director and Extended Access member of DARC.
MEET DEENA
Deena Alsaweer is a Fulbright Scholar with an M.A. in Film/TV from the Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD). Since leaving her career in International Logistics, Deena has been a force in the Film & TV industry. Deena is currently directing ‘Stitches’ as part of her 2024 Toronto Palestine Film Festival residency about a Palestinian tailor dedicated to spreading joy with his wedding dresses. Deena has worked with a range of production companies on TV, digital projects, and films for broadcasters such as TVOKids, CBC, Unis TV, Hallmark, and Bell Fibe TV1. She recently edited ‘Ayam Zaman,’ an official selection at the 2024 Toronto Arab Film Festival. Collaborating with CBC Creator Network, she edited ‘Good Nose,’ a documentary on Persian beauty standards, and is currently editing a documentary on different cultural beauty rituals. She is the creator of ‘Blender!,’ an Arts Network Ottawa-supported event fostering interdisciplinary collaboration among artists. Deena also teaches a youth class, ‘Acting on Camera,’ at the Ottawa School of Theatre. Her upcoming projects include her debut feature film and a workplace web series advocating for the public library community. Dedicated to amplifying underrepresented voices, Deena continues to champion diversity in the industry.
Deena most recently directed, produced, edited, and starred in a music video for Los Angeles-based musician Xenai’s new single “Ghost” as Xenai’s glamourous poker-playing antagonist. Make sure to check out the video on YouTube to take a peek at Deena’s skills in action!
As a DARC Member, Deena gets access to equipment, facilities, grants, residencies, workshop discounts, and so much more! Want to become a member like Deena? Check out our website to get started.
Psst! Want to be featured in our next Member Highlight? Active DARC Members can apply now through the Member Highlight submission form.
