Celebrated Pakistani filmmaker and investigative journalist Shehzad Hameed Ahmad, a distinguished Fulbright Scholar and active member of the Pakistan-U.S. Alumni Network (PUAN), has been selected as a jury member for the Cannes Corporate TV Awards 2025, set to be held in Austria later this year.

The Cannes Corporate TV Awards are among the most prestigious global platforms recognizing excellence in corporate films, online media, and documentaries. This year, the international jury comprises over 100 independent judges, including Oscar® and Emmy® winners, industry leaders, and acclaimed creatives from around the world. Ahmad’s selection to this high-profile panel is a notable recognition of his outstanding contributions to global documentary filmmaking.

A Career Steeped in Impactful Storytelling

Shehzad Hameed Ahmad’s career as an investigative journalist and documentary filmmaker spans over 20 years, during which he has directed more than 100 documentary films. His work takes audiences into some of the most difficult-to-access regions, uncovering important stories that would otherwise remain hidden. From investigating the strategies of female ISIS recruiters in Marawi to filming the environmental destruction of the Great Barrier Reef, Shehzad’s documentaries explore complex issues with depth and courage.

In addition to his notable work in war zones and conflict regions, Shehzad has also shed light on critical social issues, such as Nepali child marriages, underage dowry deaths, and the struggles faced by illegal gold miners in Brazil’s protected Amazon rainforests. His fearless storytelling continues to raise awareness on global challenges and is a testament to the power of journalism to drive change.

Awards and Recognition

Shehzad’s remarkable body of work has earned him numerous prestigious accolades. His documentaries have been broadcast on major global platforms, including Al Jazeera, VICE, National Geographic, TVF International, and DW. Some of his most significant honors include:

• The Prince of Asturias Award for International Cooperation from the King of Spain in 2014.
• 10 World Medals at the New York Festivals.
• 3 Global Media Awards in Germany.
• Green Image Award in Japan.
• 2 Silver Awards at the Handle Climate Change Film Festival in China.
• Singapore’s Mediacorp News Award of the Year 2015.
• The Gender Equality Impact Change-maker Award in 2020.
• Pakistan’s Journalist of the Year award.

In addition, Shehzad was honored as a distinguished Fulbright Scholar and holds a master’s degree in documentary filmmaking from New York University.

A Proud Moment for PUAN and Global Journalism

Shehzad Hameed Ahmad’s inclusion in the Cannes Corporate TV Awards 2025 jury marks a significant moment for PUAN members and for Pakistan’s growing influence in the international media industry. His work is a powerful example of the role documentary filmmakers play in raising awareness and driving global change.

We congratulate Shehzad Hameed Ahmad on this prestigious recognition and look forward to his continued contributions to global journalism and filmmaking.

Official Announcement: Cannes Corporate TV Awards Jury