Blog: Creative Vision

In episode 7 of Qatar in Quotes, filmmaker and NU-Q alumna Hissa G. Al Mannai shares her heartwarming story with hosts Ria Sayadi and Thani Al Thani.

“I am someone who is visually impaired, and I have limited sight,” said Mannai as she introduces herself. It was not always as simple for her to introduce herself as a child. “I was a very confused kid and I never really understood it.”

Over the years, Mannai has embraced her visual impairment and has become more comfortable talking about it. Her Instagram bio now proudly states “one-eyed filmmaker.” She also has a great degree of empathy for others might have had a similar experience as her.

Films were always an important part of Mannai’s life, even during her childhood. Whenever she was asked about what she wanted purse in life, she would always think about filmmaking. She reminisced about making a film based on a fisherman when she was in grade 4.

“I’m really passionate about telling stories that examine the people’s passion and the human experience.”

Her upcoming project is a short documentary called Beyond Broken Walls. She is also working on another project that revolves around blindness and visual impairment. “That is a topic that is extremely important to me,” expressed Mannai. “I don’t wanna say too much because I want the film to speak for itself.”

Mannai believes that her visual impairment has not only shaped her personality but has also made a mark on her films. She hopes that her story will inspire more people to step out of their comfort zone and allow them to break societal norms and boundaries.  

Tune into this episode to hear more from Hissa as she recounts her experience at NU-Q and shares about her films.

Written by: Syed Ali Ahsan