Allison Norlian

Allison Norlian is a three-time Emmy-nominated journalist, filmmaker, writer and disability advocate whose work explores disability, mental health, identity, belonging and social change. Her latest documentary, Meandering Scars, premiered theatrically in early 2026 before being acquired by Freestyle Media for distribution. It is now available to rent or purchase on Amazon, Apple TV and other digital platforms.

She is the co-founder of BirdMine, a production company dedicated to amplifying underrepresented voices through narrative and documentary storytelling. Through her work as a writer, director and producer, Allison creates films that challenge perceptions, examine systems of inclusion and exclusion, and invite audiences to engage with stories of resilience, community and human connection.

Allison co-wrote and co-directed the award-winning short film Thirteen, inspired by her mother and profoundly disabled sister. The film explores disability, faith and inclusion, has screened internationally and is now distributed educationally through New Day Films.

Before transitioning into filmmaking, Allison spent more than a decade as a journalist, reporting for television newsrooms across the country and writing for publications including ForbesWomen, HealthyWomen and Business Insider. Her reporting, often focused on disability rights, caregiving and mental health, earned multiple Emmy nominations and a Catalyst for Change Award from The Arc of Virginia.

As the sister of a profoundly disabled woman, Allison’s lived experience has shaped both her advocacy and creative work. She is committed to ensuring people with disabilities are portrayed with authenticity, dignity and emotional truth. Her own experiences navigating anxiety have also informed her storytelling, fostering a deep interest in the ways people cope with grief, uncertainty, isolation and resilience.

Whether behind the camera or on the page, Allison believes storytelling can build empathy, challenge assumptions and inspire meaningful change. Her work is driven by a desire to create space for conversations around disability, mental health, identity and belonging – subjects that are often overlooked, yet deeply connect us all.