Aref Mohammadi is an acclaimed filmmaker, film critic, and TV producer, widely recognized within Iranian communities outside Iran for his dedication to cinema and cultural advocacy. As the founder and CEO of New Wave Artistic and Cultural Group since 2004, he has fostered a dynamic space for dialogue, education, and celebration of Iranian and global cinema. Through workshops, seminars, and tributes to both legendary and contemporary artists, he has played a crucial role in amplifying the presence of Iranian cinema on the international stage. His extensive interviews with cinematic icons such as Abbas Kiarostami, Atom Egoyan, Jafar Panahi, Shohreh Aghdashloo, and Asghar Farhadi have provided valuable insights into the evolving landscape of Iranian and world cinema. His book, Iranian Cinema – Yesterday, Today (2012), captures the essence of these conversations, offering a profound exploration of Iranian film history. With a B.A. in Persian Literature, a diploma in Community Social Service Work, and as a candidate for an M.F.A. in Documentary Media Studies at Toronto Metropolitan University, Aref blends academic rigor with artistic passion in all his endeavors.

As a filmmaker, his documentaries reflect a commitment to telling powerful, untold stories. His debut feature-length documentary, A Survivor from Magadan (2012), received international acclaim, earning multiple awards and recognition from The Toronto Star. His second documentary, Song of God (2018), achieved unprecedented success, winning accolades such as Best Documentary at the San Francisco Festival and Best Film by the Canadian Ethnic Media Association. His latest film, Journey to Yazdegerd Castle (2024), continues his exploration of Iranian history and identity through film. His contributions have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Ontario Volunteer Service Award, the Ontario Volunteer Certificate, and the National Ethnic Press & Media Council Award. Aref’s impact extends beyond filmmaking—his work bridges cultures, fosters critical conversations, and ensures Iranian cinema remains a vital part of the global cinematic discourse.