Amir Soltani

Amir Soltani blends art, media and activism to tell compelling stories.  He has worked closely with PEN on the case of Nasrin Sotoudeh and other activists in Iran.  He is the author, with Khalil Bendib, of ZAHRA’S PARADISE, a New York Times bestselling graphic novel on Iran’s 2009 protests. Widely recognized as a first in real time publishing and activism, ZAHRA’S PARADISE was translated into 16 languages and nominated for two Eisner awards. Zahra, the heroine of the story, was the first virtual woman presidential candidate to run in the 2013 presidential elections.  Amir has worked on a number of film projects: DOGTOWN REDEMPTION, HOLD YOUR FIRE, NASRIN, TOWARDS HAPPY ALLEYS and SKIN OF GLASS.  As the Executive Director of the Semnani Family Foundation, he directed philanthropic projects on Iran issues ranging from war and corruption to health and sports.  He lives in Utah with his mutt, Louie.