Mona, is a stand-up comic, comedic speaker and emcee based in Chicago. She has studied improv and comedy writing at Chicago’s Second City. Mona has performed, emceed, and produced comedy shows, competitions and events in major clubs, theatres and universities around the world. In addition to comedy, Mona is a sought-after speaker in various socio-political topics in the United States and the Middle East.
Mona has a Master’s in International Development and is fluent in English, German and Arabic. Having lived in Europe, The Middle East, and Africa, Mona uses her global insight and perspectives as well as her homegrown Chicago-style to offer a fresh look at the funny that’s all around us. Mona’s experiences living in war and in peace allows her a powerful insight into the amazing impact of comedy as a vessel for peace.
Recently Mona became the first Arab and Muslim woman to perform stand up comedy in the nation’s most prestigious institutions. She was featured at Carnegie Hall in New York City as well as the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC. Similarly, Mona was featured in the first ever US Consulate sponsored Comedy Festival in the West Bank. Locally, Mona has been featured on Chicago’s #1 daytime talk show, Windy City Live!
Mona maintains her love for Chicago by running her own stand-up comedy and trivia showcase called “The Comedy Bowl.” She also runs a kids comedy class and workshop throughout the inner-city called “Lil Comix” that teaches kids the art of stand up comedy, improv and comedic writing; with a collective school performance as the course finale – this is in addition to her regular performances throughout the globe.
