A Founder’s Story: How Butheina Kazim built Cinema Akil

Butheina Kazim decided to work in cinema 15 years ago and planted the seeds that led to the founding of Cinema Akil in 2014 when she started showcasing independent films as nomadic cinematic interventions in various spaces around Dubai. At the time she was targeting a very small community of film afficionados. By 2018 Cinema Akil was a permanent venue and film sanctuary in Dubai, making it the GCC’s first ever arthouse cinema. Today, it is one of the best known, must-visit destination for film lovers across the region.

But where did it all start? Whether it be from their parents’ garage, from having had a life-changing conversation, or simply being in the right place at the right time, some of the best founding stories begin like hers. Listen to this fireside chat with one of the trailblazing founders of our region as she shares her extraordinary journey.

Moderator: Micallar Walker | CEO/Founder – Dark Matter