Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, and raised in Toronto, Canada, Nabeel Laher is a second-year MFA candidate in the Peter Stark Producing Program at USC's School of Cinematic Arts. Prior to joining the Stark Program, Nabeel worked as a Management Consultant at Deloitte. Nabeel is deeply committed to championing and amplifying underrepresented voices both in front of and behind the camera. His academic journey at Stark includes coursework such as Producing for Television, The Business of Talent Representation, and Studio Management. He has applied this knowledge in industry internships in talent/literary representation, and his work with Stark Program Chair Ed Saxon.

What interests you most about your specific division or program at SCA?
When I made the shift from Management Consulting to entertainment, the only program I wanted to learn the business of cinematic arts from was the Peter Stark Producing Program. Stark represents excellence in the industry, and I can’t help but be inspired by the alumni, faculty, teaching philosophy, and reputation. The intensive two-year interdisciplinary experience at Stark is unparalleled; a small cohort of twenty-four students, with faculty who are celebrated producers, studio executives, agents, managers, and industry leaders that teach the technical, business, and creative aspects of filmmaking. This exposure to the full spectrum of the industry and creative development allows us Starkies to speak to those on both sides of that art and commerce gap. Off-campus internship opportunities have helped catalyze what we have learned towards a professional career. If you want a front-row seat to the industry, and the most caring, considerate, and innovative environment, there is no better place to learn and collaborate than Stark.

Why did you choose SCA?
There is something magical about studying film in the city where movies are made. SCA is a collaborative and diverse community of students and faculty that offers students a front-row seat to the full spectrum of the industry. I can experiment, try new things, and have flexibility in shaping my path. The integration of theory and practice has given me a holistic understanding of the filmmaking process and allowed me to stretch and push myself. By gaining strength and experience in all areas of film and the business of the industry, I can stock my toolbox and become a well-rounded filmmaker and executive. The peers and faculty I have met and collaborated with will be invaluable to my future career. These friendships will continue to shape my personal and professional journey. SCA represents excellence in the industry, and the alumni roster speaks for itself. In an industry filled with SCA alumni, I wanted to join them in making an impact.

What has been your biggest challenge at SCA so far?
Navigating full-time internships, production, and evening classes was a challenging but incredibly rewarding and necessary experience. It forced me to manage my time effectively, and I am grateful for the support of the Stark Program and my cohort for helping my classmates and me navigate/manage off-campus opportunities.

What has been your biggest success?
The opportunity to intern in talent representation/management throughout my first year at Stark and the summer was an experience that I am grateful for. I was able to directly integrate theoretical knowledge from Stark and the discussions we were having in class into the practical experiences at the internship. This experience was immensely valuable in helping me chart my personal and professional trajectory before my final year at Stark. The experience showed me that being in the business of representation is exactly what I want to be doing.

Is there a project you are working (or have completed) that you're especially proud of?
I am grateful for the opportunity to produce a short film that brought together students from the Stark Program, the John Wells Division of Writing for Screen & Television, and the Film/Television Production program. It was an incredibly rewarding experience to connect the dots, bring people together, and learn from and collaborate across divisions towards a shared vision. It was an invaluable experience and I will take my learnings from producing this short to my future creative and professional experiences. Working on a limited budget we experienced how constraints foster creativity. It was a privilege to produce this film and see the power of the USC/SCA network and name and the talented folks who I got to collaborate with, as we navigated the expected and unexpected with resilience.

How has SCA prepared you so far for the career you want?
Stark provides incredible opportunities to learn from celebrated executives and filmmakers that share insights and guidance as we navigate the ins and outs of The Business and The Town. I aspire to work in talent representation/management, while continuing to produce and taking big swings on talent that I believe in. Stark has given me a holistic understanding of the business of filmmaking and instilled a sense of discipline, teamwork, and creativity. At Stark, coursework, insightful conversations with guest speakers, practical case studies, internship opportunities, and mentorship from Stark Program Chair Ed Saxon, have prepared me to navigate the multifaceted challenges of the industry, confidently. I’ve learned about the importance of showing up for others and yourself, to be resilient, and to remain insanely curious. I will carry these lessons and experiences with me throughout my time at Stark and beyond.

What advice do you have for prospective students looking to apply to SCA?
For prospective students looking to apply to SCA, I’d say: Do it for the kid who fell in love with movies. Do not forget your why and be your authentic self. If you want to be in the business of storytelling, tell them your authentic story, do not hold back, and do not worry about what you think someone wants to hear. Be yourself. It’s okay to be different or have had a different path that led you to wanting to apply. Listen to your own inner voice and trust your gut. It is passion and potential that led you here. Regardless of the outcome, stay resilient. What’s meant for you will never pass you by. The industry needs you, your voice, and the stories you want to tell.