Fowler Films: The Journey Within

Join us for a special screening of The Journey Within, followed by a conversation with Writer, Director, and Producer Mian Adnan Ahmad and Associate Producer, JC Diaz. Set in post-9/11 Pakistan, this acclaimed documentary traces the inspiring evolution of Coke Studio, one of the region’s most influential music initiatives. Beginning with humble origins, the film follows artists as they bring together folk, Sufi, rock, pop, and rap, bridging eastern and western traditions to create music that resonates across borders. In doing so, they reclaim and celebrate Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage while challenging stereotypes and asking deeper questions about identity, belonging, and the unifying power of sound.

The Journey Within has garnered international recognition, earning multiple awards and screening at leading film festivals and distinguished events across Asia, Europe, UK and the US, including having the unique honor of screening at the Parliament of the World Religions, where past speakers have included the likes of Nelson Mandela, Jimmy Carter, the Dalai Lama, Queen Rania amongst others. A moderated conversation with the filmmakers will follow and light refreshments will be served.

Mian Adnan Ahmad is an award-winning filmmaker, Berlinale Talents alum, and Fulbright Scholar. He has had his works featured in academic programs across South Asia and the United States, including the South Asian Cinema program at UC Davis. His films explore the human condition, inspiring us to reflect and connect, and have won more than 25 awards worldwide, including receiving the Jesse Epstein Humanitarian Award and winning Best Science Fiction / Fantasy FIm at Comic-Con.

JC is a filmmaker with years of experience navigating the highs and lows of the film industry, brings a rare blend of professional expertise and heartfelt authenticity to every project. Known for his instinctive grasp of storytelling and his ability to translate it powerfully to the screen, JC inspires those around him to dig deeper and create with intention.

This program is co-sponsored by the Department of European and Transcultural Studies at UCLA (ELTS) and the Fulbright Alumni Association