“She’s Exactly Where She Wants to Be and Has All the Tools to Move Forward to the Next Step”
Samah Damanhoori’s journey from the conservative confines of Mecca to the creative epicenter of California is a testament to resilience, vision, and the transformative power of storytelling. Born and raised in Saudi Arabia, Samah defied societal norms and personal adversity to become an award-winning filmmaker, activist, and founder of Madina Papel—a pioneering media studio that reimagines narratives through animation, gaming, and AI-driven experiences.
Her academic pursuits began with a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature and Linguistics from Umm Al-Qura University in 2011. In 2014, she was awarded a Saudi government scholarship to pursue a Master’s degree in Creative Writing at Notre Dame de Namur University in California. However, her journey took a dramatic turn when her father, initially supportive, revoked his approval, effectively canceling her scholarship under the kingdom’s male guardianship laws. Facing the prospect of returning to a restrictive environment, Samah made the courageous decision to stay in the U.S., severing familial ties and seeking political asylum—a narrative she later detailed in her memoir and various public speaking engagements .
Samah’s personal experiences with systemic oppression fueled her activism. She became a vocal advocate against Saudi Arabia’s male guardianship laws, contributing to international campaigns and speaking at events to raise awareness about women’s rights in the Middle East. Her efforts were instrumental in the broader movement that eventually led to reforms allowing Saudi women to travel without male permission. Her activism has been featured in prominent media outlets, including NPR and BBC World News .
In 2020, Samah channeled her passion for storytelling into the creation of Madina Papel, a multimedia studio dedicated to crafting inclusive and transformative narratives. The studio’s flagship project, “Paper City,” is an animated short film that draws parallels between her personal struggles and the universal quest for identity and freedom. The film has been acclaimed for its poignant storytelling and innovative use of animation to address complex social issues .
Beyond filmmaking, Samah has held leadership roles at major tech companies, including Meta, Apple, HBO, Genentech, and Genvid. In these positions, she spearheaded diversity and inclusion initiatives, leveraging her unique perspective to foster more equitable workplace cultures. Her professional journey reflects a seamless blend of creative vision and strategic acumen, positioning her as a thought leader at the intersection of technology and social impact .
Samah’s commitment to mentorship and community building is evident in her involvement with various organizations. She serves as a mentor for Women of Color Unite, supporting emerging talents in navigating the challenges of the creative industry. Additionally, she has participated in prestigious accelerators like Techstars powered by J.P. Morgan and Hive Founders, further honing her entrepreneurial skills and expanding her network within the startup ecosystem.
Her linguistic abilities—fluent in Arabic, French, and Korean—have enabled her to connect with diverse audiences and foster cross-cultural dialogues. This multilingual proficiency enhances her storytelling, allowing her to infuse her work with rich, global perspectives.
Samah’s personal interests, including tennis, community building, and travel, reflect her dynamic personality and commitment to holistic well-being. These passions inform her professional ethos, emphasizing the importance of balance, connection, and continuous growth.
Currently, Samah continues to expand Madina Papel’s reach, exploring new mediums and technologies to tell stories that resonate on a global scale. Her vision is to create content that not only entertains but also empowers individuals to challenge societal norms and embrace their authentic selves.
Her journey exemplifies the power of personal narrative to drive social change. Through her work, Samah Damanhoori has become a beacon of hope and inspiration, demonstrating that with courage and creativity, it is possible to rewrite one’s story and, in doing so, impact the world.
Character:
Samah embodies resilience and integrity, consistently standing up for her beliefs despite personal and professional risks. Her journey reflects a deep commitment to justice and the empowerment of marginalized voices.
Knowledge:
Her academic background in literature and creative writing, combined with her professional experience in tech and media, equips her with a unique blend of analytical and creative skills. This interdisciplinary expertise enables her to approach challenges with both strategic insight and imaginative solutions.
Strategic:
Samah’s ability to navigate complex organizational structures and drive impactful initiatives showcases her strategic acumen. She effectively aligns her creative vision with business objectives, ensuring sustainable growth and meaningful outcomes.
Communication:
A compelling storyteller and speaker, Samah connects with audiences through authenticity and emotional intelligence. Her multilingual capabilities further enhance her ability to engage diverse communities and foster inclusive dialogues.
