Biography

Jawad Sharif is an award-winning filmmaker and National Geographic Explorer based in Pakistan. His work explores themes of social change and human rights, focusing on reviving the suppressed cultural and indigenous identities of Pakistan. Throughout his career, Jawad has pushed the boundaries of visual storytelling by documenting the rights of folk musicians, high-altitude porters, climate migrants, and marginalized communities.

In 2016, Jawad was awarded a scholarship at the UCLA School of Theatre, Film, and Television. He is also an alumnus of the Swedish Institute and Institut Fur Auslandsbeziehunge, Germany. His work has garnered international and national recognition, including his selection as a TED Fellow and Speaker in 2022 for his achievements in filmmaking and the potential impact of his work.

Jawad's films are deeply rooted in local culture and highlight the diverse and resilient aspects of Pakistani society. His recent film "The Losing Side" won the Best Human Rights Film award at the Cannes World Film Festival. "Indus Blues" has received numerous international awards and nominations at prestigious film festivals. His film "Natari" was part of the official selection of the Climate Crisis Film Festival 2021, held in conjunction with COP26 in Glasgow, UK. Jawad has also received several awards for "K2 & the Invisible Footmen," which has been showcased at film festivals worldwide.

As a founder of multiple initiatives, Jawad employs filmmaking to inspire social change and climate justice. His project Climate Kahani addresses climate change conflicts through visual storytelling. At the same time, Cinema for Change, a non-profit initiative, empowers filmmakers to explore, educate, and advocate for social change through films.

Jawad serves as the Festival Director of the Asia Peace Film Festival and is a jury member of the Jaipur Library Academy Awards in India. He is also an advisory board member of the Forum for Dignity Initiatives, a not-for-profit organization that protects the rights of sexual and gender minorities in Pakistan.