Welcome to the enriching world of cultural exploration and connection, where I offer a diverse range of services as a cultural advisor, speaker, educator, dialect coach, Dari language coach, and cultural competency trainer. Through my expertise, I strive to foster a deeper understanding and connection with Afghanistan, unraveling its culture, conflict, and vibrant communities.
Embark on a transformative journey with me as I guide you through the intricate tapestry of Afghanistan's heritage and traditions. Together, we'll navigate through the complexities of stereotypes, monolithic storytelling, and cultural appropriation, paving the way for genuine cultural literacy in your projects.
As a refugee and a creator, I am passionate about opening doors to Afghanistan's culture, history, and beauty. Let me elevate your work with unbiased insights and meticulously researched knowledge. I'm eager to hear about your project and offer a complimentary consultation for those seeking
Consulting Focus
Cultural producer for film, television, and theatre
Script advisor and collaborator for film scripts, teleplays, play scripts, and novels
Writer
Speaker on various aspects of Afghanistan, with a special focus on Afghan women
Dialect coaching for authentic portrayal of Afghan characters
Dari language coaching for accurate linguistic representation
Cultural dramaturg
Cultural competency training
Writing
Pilgrimage, a play in two acts
by Humaira Ghilzai & Bridgette Dutta Portman
Five Muslim American women embark on a pilgrimage to Mecca. Noor, an Afghan American immigrant with a secret, her tech CEO daughter Maryam facing legal troubles, estranged sisters Sosan and Nadia mending their relationship, and Fatima, a Black Muslim convert searching for her biological mother. Will their journey unite them or will secrets and rivalries prevail?
Workshops & Public Readings: Golden Thread Productions, Crowded Fire Theatre, San Jose State University, and Stanford University
Cast: 5
Runtime: 2 hours
Genre: Drama
To request a copy of the Pilgrimage playscript, please contact humairaghilzai@gmail.com.
“Ms. Ghilzai has an encyclopedic knowledge of Afghanistan, its history and culture. She weaves into her presentations her personal story as an Afghan and her current work with her non-profit organization, Afghan Friends Network, and on her monthly blogs on Afghan life and culture. She has special insights into the status of Afghan women, both historically and in present times. She blends into her talks Afghan history, current politics and culture.”
HUMAIRA IN THE NEWS
“Chunks of dialogue are spoken in a Farsi dialect (all credit to the cultural adviser and script consultant Humaira Ghilzai)”
