The Arab Film and Media Institute (AFMI) is the first U.S.-based organization of its kind, dedicated to supporting and showcasing Arab film and media. Rebranded from the Arab Film Festival in 2017, AFMI now operates through four core programming pillars: Exhibitions, Education, Creators, and Industry.

Exhibitions include AFMI’s flagship Arab Film Festival, the largest and longest-running independent festival of its kind outside the Arab world. The festival and its year-round screenings provide a vital platform for authentic Arab stories, reaching thousands annually through in-person and virtual events. Programs like Arab Women in the Arts and Arab Love: Queer Lens highlight underrepresented voices and themes.

Education brings curated Arabic-language films and discussion guides into Bay Area middle- and high-schools. AFMI also runs Takalam: Arab Youth Speak Up!, a summer filmmaking camp that empowers Arab teens to tell their stories through film.

Creators supports Arab and Arab American media-makers through fiscal sponsorship, mentorship, and workshops. The Arab Creators Collective and other services help emerging filmmakers navigate the industry, build skills, and access resources.

Industry efforts focus on advocacy and visibility, with events like InFocus: Arab Cinema—a partnership with the Academy of Motion Pictures and NewFilmmakers LA—connecting Arab talent to Hollywood decision-makers and fostering authentic representation.

Through these integrated efforts, AFMI combats harmful stereotypes, uplifts Arab voices, and fosters community dialogue, equity, and cultural pride across California and beyond.