In this fascinating episode of The Ajyal Show, Dr Milan Maric traces a path into film that took its own unique route. From medicine and television in Serbia to film school, freelancing, New York, New Zealand and eventually academia, his journey has always carried both theory and the practical elements of on-set. Long before vertical video became part of everyday viewing, Milan's PhD had already framed it as a shift in the language of moving images, and that curiosity about how format shapes storytelling still runs through his teaching.

Now leading the Digital Communication and Media Production programme at the University of Doha for Science and Technology, Milan speaks about the rare chance to help build a course from a clean slate. Created through close conversation with people already working in Qatar's media industry, the programme is designed to produce graduates who can actually step onto a set, handle equipment, and understand production from the inside out.

Throughout the conversation, one idea returns often. The camera is not the beginning. Students need to know what they are trying to say before choosing the tool that helps them say it. For Milan, a portfolio is not a highlight reel of images, but a window into attitude, curiosity, and readiness for the real conditions of production. He pushes students to think beyond grades, learn the language of the set, and solve problems calmly when things become challenging.

On AI, he is measured. Useful, yes, but no replacement for research, cultural understanding, and human connection. His advice to young filmmakers is refreshingly easy to understand and implement. Start now, with the phone in your pocket, and let the work grow through doing.

To learn more about Doha Film Institute's initiatives, workshops and funding that help support Qatar’s creative community, visit our website here.