Anya Raza

Anya Raza is a Pakistani-Dutch writer, filmmaker and economist. She is moved by the human spirit, and seeks to tell stories that stretch conventional definitions. 

Currently based between New York and Islamabad, her work has always had a focus on quieter voices, supporting humanitarian causes, the quest for economic empowerment, equal rights and freedom of expression. 

Using her experience from the non-profit sector, Anya chooses to tell global stories that break stereotypes, encourage critical thinking and catalyze change. Film is one medium of storytelling Anya communicates in, along with her writing and stand-up comedy with Pakistani comedy troupe Auratnaak.

Anya's debut film How She Moves has been selected by 10 festivals globally, and won the Excellence in Documentary Short Filmmaking  Award at the 43rd Asian American International Film Festival. Anya’s short films Even On The Mountain (2023) and Asma (2024) are in post-production, while her short film Still Here is currently making festival rounds. 

Anya holds an MSc Economics from the University of Amsterdam, and an MA in Film & Media Production from American University.