Taufik Abdul-Jaleel
B.A in Film & Media Productions with a minor in Theatre; B.A. in Management Information Systems with a minor in Operations and Supply Chain Management
Graduation Year: 2026
Hometown: Charlotte, NC
How did you first get interested in theatre?
I’m a multidimensional creator with an unquenchable need for storytelling and self-expression. Acting sparked something deep within me at an early age, but it wasn’t until high school that I began to explore the full extent of my creativity by writing, filming, and producing content on my own. When I received my refund check from Central Piedmont Community College, I purchased my first camera, which inspired my first feature film, Loverboy, which is now available on Tubi TV. That one step demonstrated that creativity is more than a hobby; it is a legacy. Since then, I’ve appeared in Central Piedmont commercials, made several short films, and written plays, all while working to tell meaningful, compelling stories about faith, hope, and honesty.
What kind of career do you hope to have?
I want to run a halal production company that combines creativity with purpose, where compelling storytelling inspires rather than compromises, and no one feels pressured into tales that don’t reflect who they are or want to be. I aim to create content for films, television shows, and art that is both bold and wholesome, valuable and friendly to everybody. As someone who enjoys both statistics and business, I’m pursuing a job that combines analytical thinking with unlimited imagination, where heart and logic drive innovation together. I also have my own production company called Influencing Legacies.
What is your favorite thing about the Department of Theatre?
I’m truly grateful for the wonderful opportunity to pursue my education here. I appreciate the lively Muslim community on campus and the wonderful individuals I have the privilege to meet and grow alongside. As someone who enjoys connecting with others, I find joy in environments where dialogue fosters understanding. The College of Arts + Architecture and Theatre Department have provided me with the resources and support to nurture my creative journey.
Do you participate in any community activities or work in the Charlotte arts community?
Yes, I actively engage with the Charlotte creative community. I was recently involved in the Gather Again Festival, and earlier in life, I worked with the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center through a powerful youth program called Inspire the Fire. Community has always been a cornerstone of my journey, and I find deep fulfillment in creating with and for others.
When you are not in class, studying, or working, what do you like to do for fun?
Beyond my studies, I engage in writing, modeling for Muslim brands, acting, filming, volunteering, mentoring, and cherishing moments with my community. I see life as a continuous learning experience, a place to contemplate what is effective in the present and what insights we should cherish to create a more hopeful future. In every moment, whether captured through a lens or shared in a conversation, I find myself seeking a deeper sense of purpose.