About Us

WHO ARE WE?

The Mosquers Film Festival is a nonprofit cultural organization based in Edmonton, Canada, with a mission to transform the Muslim narrative through the power of film, art, and storytelling.

Founded in 2006, The Mosquers began as a grassroots initiative - an intimate short film competition aimed at tackling stereotypes and celebrating the diversity within Muslim communities. What started locally has since grown into the world’s leading film and arts festival dedicated to showcasing the breadth of Muslim experiences. It now attracts filmmakers, artists, performers, and audiences from around the world, all united by a shared vision: to change how Muslims are seen.

The festival’s name - "Mosquers" - is a creative combination of "Mosque" and "Oscars," representing a space that celebrates Muslim creativity, identity, and excellence in storytelling. Rooted in Muslim community values, The Mosquers is a home for voices often underrepresented in mainstream media.

Every September in Edmonton, The Mosquers hosts a multi-day festival that includes an industry panel and networking event, red-carpet gala, the screening of short-film finalists, a feature entertainment showcase, a prestigious awards ceremony and end of show after-party. Past performers have included renowned Muslim creatives including Nemahsis, Muna Abdulahi, Malik El-Essal, Hassan Phills, Maz Jobrani, Mo Amer, Narcy, Azhar Usman, Brother Ali and Mona Haydar.

The Mosquers is about more than just film. It’s a cultural gathering that fosters open dialogue, challenges misconceptions, and creates space for connection. Each year, we continue to introduce both Muslim and non-Muslim audiences to original, authentic storytelling that entertains, educates, and inspires.

Our podcast, The Halal Gap, extends our mission year-round by hosting conversations with artists, creators, and changemakers who are reshaping how Muslim identities are represented across creative industries.

Today, The Mosquers is a vital platform for emerging and established creatives alike - a celebration of Muslim stories told by those who live them. 

SAVE THE DATE

Save the date for our 2025 festival: September 18-21, 2025

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