Yossera Bouchtia

Yossera Bouchtia holds dual roles as Director of the Cinema Program and Assistant Professor at VCUarts, Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of the Arts. Her work bridges Eastern and Western perspectives through films that challenge stereotypes and explore feminine identity shaped by religion and culture. She is a Sloan Foundation grant recipient for her short film on astronomer Vera Rubin, emphasizing science communication in narrative cinema.

Education

• MFA in Directing, Columbia University
• BS in Psychology & BA in Cinema, Virginia Commonwealth University

Research Focus Explores intersectionality of identity through cinematic storytelling, with emphasis on marginalized narratives in global contexts. Recent projects highlight STEM narratives (e.g., Vera Rubin film) and cultural diaspora themes.

Grants

• Alfred P. Sloan Foundation-funded short film production

Currently oversees VCUarts Cinema Program operations and curriculum development in film production and screenwriting.