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Welcome to my Portfolio!
The logo reads “Wjd Dhnie”—yep, that’s my name! I’m a computer engineer, journalist, and a mix of other things I’ll get to later, but first thing first, let’s tackle the name.
For anyone whose mother tongue isn’t Arabic, I know my name can feel like a bit of a tongue twister! But don’t worry—I’ve seen it all: expressions of polite confusion from interviewees, valiant attempts by TV presenters, and, occasionally, just outright surrender. After all, who doesn’t love a good challenge? In my case, the name is the challenge!
So let's clear things up: it’s pronounced either /ˈwɑː.dʒɛd/ or /ˈwæ.dʒɪd/, like "wa-jed" with a hint of finesse. And here’s the twist: my name actually means "extreme love" or "intense passion." It may look like a Java code command—I kinda wish it was—but no, it’s pure Arabic.
Turns out, it’s also a guaranteed conversation starter. People are often drawn in by the sound, which gives me the perfect opening to explain the meaning—a pretty deep one, if I do say so myself! My name is almost a rite of passage: getting it right is a fun little challenge, a cultural exchange, and a great icebreaker—especially useful when I’m trying to capture someone’s most intimate story on camera. I give a little piece of myself to get something in return.
So go ahead, give it a try; worst case, we’ll share a laugh!
My Background
I’m a Syrian-born storyteller, journalist, producer, and filmmaker with a B.Sc. in Computer Engineering. Born in Daraa on March 27, 1991, I left Syria in 2012 during the conflict and found my way to Jordan, where I added “nomadic resilience” to my skill set, and now I live in Germany.
My career highlights include three high-adrenaline years covering Syria and the Middle East as a producer for the BBC, followed by a stint at the UNHCR, where I helped bring refugee stories to life. I even had the honor of being a field producer for National Geographic, which, let’s be honest, is just about as cool as it gets!
Oh, and as much as I’m devoted to media and storytelling, my background in computer engineering is no small detail. Add to that a love of math and a deep curiosity about science, and, well, you’ve got yourself a certified nerd with a few plot twists.
I know, journalism and IT sound like an odd mix. How did that even happen? Well, ever since I was a 5-year-old, I was captivated by the computer my dad bought for work. I just *had* to see what was going on inside, so I cracked it open to figure it out—and promptly got grounded.
When I grew up, I went to university to get “official” permission to open as many computers as I wanted. Now, I actually know how they work, and I’m still as fascinated as when I was five.
And journalism? Honestly, it was kind of a happy accident! I got interviewed about Syria, and afterward, they said, "You speak well—want to work for us?" I figured, why not, and just said yes.
From dissecting computers to dissecting stories, I discovered that understanding both technology and human experiences brings a unique depth of understanding to life, where the connections we build are as intricate as any circuit board. Code and storytelling are just different languages for telling stories—one in bits and bytes, the other in truths and insights.
I've always been captivated by the thrill of the hidden and the pull of the mysterious. That’s why I found my way into journalism—to dig up the untold stories—and IT, to unlock the secrets of technology. Oh, and when I’m not juggling worlds of intrigue, I'm deep into a game of fiendishly complicated chess or playing the piano. Basically, if it’s complex, tricky, or just borderline impossible, I’ve probably put a foot in it!
Although my work as a journalist rarely involved computer science, I was determined to earn that degree. So, anytime you reach out, there’s a good chance I’m buried somewhere on campus, doing "IT stuff" and keeping my inner nerd alive.
Apart from my fluency in ones and zeros, I’m fluent in English and Arabic, with a decent command of German—though let’s be honest, mastering “der, die, das” feels like a lifetime challenge!
Education
2023-Present
Goethe University
Germany
Currently completing five specific modules at Goethe University to have my B.Sc. in Information Technology recognized in Germany, which will qualify me for a master’s program. This targeted coursework is strengthening my foundation in advanced IT concepts and skills, including Algorithm and Data Structures and Statistics, ensuring I am well-prepared for postgraduate studies.
2013-2018
Philadelphia University
Jordan
Graduated with a B.Sc. in Computer Engineering, with a focus on software engineering, systems design, and embedded systems. Developed strong analytical and programming skills, working with languages such as C++, Python, and Java.
2009-2012
Tishreen University
Syria
Studied IT Engineering at Tishreen University, gaining a foundational understanding of programming, networking, and systems design. Despite my studies being interrupted due to the war, I acquired essential skills.
My Work
As a storytelling multitool, I blend journalism, documentary filmmaking, and creative production to illuminate human experiences and social issues that don’t just cross borders—they practically vault over them. I’m on a mission to uncover stories that tend to get lost in the shuffle of mainstream media, capturing each one with an irresistible mix of authenticity, empathy, and curiosity.
Armed with relentless research skills and an eye for the artistic, I dive into people’s lives, giving voice to the intricacies and quirks that make them who they are. From the everyday heroes to the unassuming rebels, my goal is to pull back the curtain and reveal truths that resonate far beyond what they, or anyone else, ever imagined. Because really, who doesn’t love a story that reminds us that life is weirder, wilder, and more wonderful than we often believe?
Now, let’s talk about the technicalities of crafting these stories. As a storyteller, my process starts with intensive research, mapping out every lead, contact, and connection to uncover the core of a narrative. I find the hidden stories, put together the concept, and reach out to people, piecing together each perspective for a cohesive and compelling vision. Every question is tailored to draw out authentic answers and raw genuine narratives.
Where I worked, videos weren’t narrated but told by the people themselves, capturing their voices and lives firsthand. I manage all facets of production: conducting interviews, translating transcripts, overseeing budgets and logistics, and staying hands-on from filming through to post-production. By the time a project is complete, it’s not just another video—it’s a platform for voices that often go unheard.
 National GeographicI was the secret sauce behind National Geographic’s big ideas, managing every phase from chaotic brainstorming to penny-pinching budgets. I handled scheduling, rewrote scripts to perfection, scouted epic locations, and streamlined logistics like a pro. Working alongside Emmy-winning director Nick Quested? Let’s just say, honor quickly became a familiar friend! |  ABC AustraliaAs the researcher, producer, and scriptwriter for *ABC Australia’s* *Home Away From Home*, which won second place at the Amnesty International Award, this project was one of the most emotionally involving experiences of my career. |  Journeyman Pictures*Killing The Rock*, a pioneering short film by Jake Viramontez, captures the profound journey of Abu Raja, a 60-year-old Syrian sculptor who, as a refugee, channels his experiences into art. Researching and producing this project brought me deeply into the heart of his world, where I felt not only like a filmmaker but also like an "Avatar," blending the four elements - fire, water, air, and earth—to shape and reflect a story of resilience and identity. Isn't filmmaking, after all, a form of bend |
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 Daily MailI co-wrote an article titled *The Boy Prankster Who Triggered Syria's Bloody Genocide with Slogans Sprayed in His Schoolyard* with Ian Birrell, former speechwriter for British Prime Minister David Cameron. When Ian asked me to proofread his draft, my heart skipped a beat. |  Le MondAlong the way, I came across small, powerful stories of resilience—little glimpses that showed just how essential resilience can be. They weren’t big, but they mattered. I’ve always admired the creative ways people find to fight and survive against the odds. I still do. |  The Christian Science MonitorI had the chance to dig deep into Middle Eastern militias with Jane Arraf for *The Christian Science Monitor* article, *As Foreign Funds Run Dry, Syrian Fighters Defect to Anti-Western Militias.* Researching secret militia fundings was thrilling, especially while learning conflict journalism from Jane, the legendary journalist who spent years covering the Iraq war. Let’s just say, getting a crash course in conflict reporting from her was like learning to swim by being thrown in the deep end! |
 BBCI spent three intense years as a producer with the BBC, covering the Middle East and tackling some pretty wild projects. But one stands out—not just because it was personal, but because it was about my family. For a radio documentary called Dhnie Family, I managed to get my family escorted from Jordan to live in Germany for the production. Sure, I was nervous for them, but it turned out to be the best idea I ever pitched to the BBC. Talk about hitting two birds with one stone! |  ReliefRelief is a film commissioned by the King of Jordan to highlight the country’s refugee support efforts for a donors’ conference in D.C. Directed by none other than Stephen Baldwin and his niece Kahlea, it was a surreal mix of royalty and Hollywood. And yes, at one point, we even FaceTimed Steve’s son-in-law, Justin Bieber! I researched and scripted the project, even managed an interview with Princess Rym Al Ali. Between kings, princes, and stars, I was definitely the unusual suspect on set ;) |  Mercury FilmsI had the honor of producing—and even starring in—the Middle East segment of *Black Code*, a documentary by Emmy-nominated director Nicholas de Pencier, which unveils the secret ways internet is controlled. Nicholas wrote me a glowing recommendation letter, which I never actually used but keep around to read when life gets rough. Sometimes, it's just a matter of remembering, “Hey, someone thinks I’m impressive!” |
 Lonely PlanetLonely Planet, the world’s largest travel publisher, has been inspiring global adventures for nearly 50 years. My role? I scouted locations for four episodes of their 52-episode series, *Lonely Planet Travels*. Just a little bit of groundwork for those epic journeys! |  Noor ImagesSyria via WhatsApp (2016), produced by the award-winning documentary photographer with an international reputation for narrative innovation Tanya Habjouqa, also my friend, reveals how technology and social media are reshaping war narratives. My role was finding and translating small, intimate stories—often sad but incredibly important to document. It’s amazing how even the smallest pieces can paint a bigger picture. |  A bookSam Dagher’s *Assad Or We Burn the Country* offers an insider’s look into the deadly ambition of the Assad family, and he gave me a nod in the acknowledgments! Sam even sent me a photo of the page. It's definitely a surreal moment seeing your name in the pages of a history like that. |
 BiosphereVRAs a computer engineer, I was drawn to the potential of VR, which led me to produce *My Drying Land*, a VR film set in the Jordan Valley. In the film, viewers meet Umbekka, a resilient 62-year-old farmer who’s been working the land since she was 12 but now faces the harsh realities of climate change. Part of the innovative BiosphereVR project, this experience uses 360º immersive film to transport viewers directly into regions where climate change is already reshaping lives. |
UNHCR
For two incredible years, I served as a media consultant for UNHCR’s video department, diving headfirst into the hunt for compelling human stories. My job was to find narratives that tug at the heartstrings and stir minds, and let’s just say I got pretty good at it. I spent countless hours meeting people, hearing their stories—each one adding new layers to my understanding of human resilience, psychology, and the unexpected twists that define life.
Along the way, I found myself forging friendships with people from every walk of life, each with unique perspectives and experiences. By the end, I’d built a network that wasn’t just professional but deeply personal. This role didn’t just broaden my skills in storytelling; it gave me an appreciation for the sheer unpredictability and strength of the human spirit. And honestly? It was the best possible job for someone who never gets tired of learning what makes people tick.
UNHCR Tracks
Jordan: Too Young to be a Bride
The Unbreakable Khaled
