Luna Banuri: A Trailblazer in Advocacy, Community, and the Arts

Luna Banuri is a force of nature—a leader whose work bridges advocacy, policy, and the arts, all in the pursuit of equity and justice. With over 25 years of experience across nonprofit and corporate sectors, Luna has built a career rooted in social justice, gender equality, and community empowerment.

As the Director of Government & Community Affairs at Sundance, Luna is instrumental in ensuring that independent storytelling is recognized as a powerful tool for change. She works closely with policymakers, securing funding and advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion in film. This year, she plays a pivotal role in the search for a new city to host the renowned Sundance Film Festival, ensuring that diverse voices remain central to its mission.

Beyond Sundance, Luna’s impact extends globally. As the Founding Executive Director of the Utah Muslim Civic League, she has worked tirelessly to amplify Muslim voices in public policy and civic engagement. Her leadership has shaped initiatives advocating for social justice reform, bridging communities, and enhancing representation.

Luna’s commitment to education and technology is evident in her founding of TeleTaleem, a nonprofit leveraging digital tools to tackle education challenges in Pakistan. She has also served on numerous commissions and advisory boards, from the Salt Lake City Mayor’s Human Rights Commission to Utah’s Multicultural Commission. Her influence is felt in every space where change is needed.

DAWN is proud to call Luna our Board Chair, a role she has embraced with passion and vision. From the inception of DAWN, she has championed the power of women’s leadership, ensuring that South Asian women have a platform to connect, grow, and lead.