Hi I’m Sehar. I’m a Kenyan-Indian actor, improvisor, writer and instructor based out of Montreal.
Photo: Aquil Virani
I took my first improv class in 2010, and for over a decade, I straddled a double life: the 9-5 grind and trying to nurture a fulfilling, playful creative existence in all other moments.
On stage, I felt confident, creative and present, while in my day-to-day I battled fear, anxiety and burnout.
This path did more than open doors to storytelling, sketch, standup comedy, and professional writing and acting. It challenged me, changed me and connected me to many opportunities I never expected to be a part of.
Was it easy? Nope. A little dramatic? Yes. Rewarding? Absolutely. I’m proud and happy to have made it this far.
I did it scared, I surprised myself and I stopped playing small.
And in the process, I grew into the adult I wanted to be as a child.
I’m the big sister I never had. The brown kid who carved her way into the arts. The immigrant who relentlessly built a life in a new country—stumbling through unexpected challenges while chasing childhood dreams and helping others tap into their creativity.
We don’t play enough.
My Why
We’ve all got a unique, eccentric, emotional, and fearless side, often shrouded in self-judgement and self-consciousness. Many of us, including myself, weren't encouraged to explore or embrace this aspect of ourselves - or needed permission to. However, expressing it can unlock even more untapped creativity and value, than when we resist our own nature.
Feeling the doubt (from ourselves and others) anyways and claiming our originality is the starting point for confidence, connection, self-awareness and innovation!
Media and Event bios
Main Bio (147 words)
A veteran improviser, Sehar Manji is an actor, writer, comedian, and instructor based in Montreal. She is also a public speaking coach and TEDx speaker. Born and raised in Nairobi, she’s been a longtime presence in Montreal’s comedy scene and was among the first South Asian performers to appear regularly on local improv stages. Her work spans festivals across North America, including Just For Laughs, OFF-JFL, and the Vancouver International Improv Festival, as well as a spot in CBC’s Kim’s Convenience Emerging Writers’ Room.
Her screen credits include Transplant (NBC), Pillow Talk (Crave), and the upcoming film Love & Chaos, along with commercials — including one alongside Ryan Reynolds. In 2023, she made her professional theatre debut in The Rishta at Montreal’s Centaur Theatre.
With over 15 years of experience as an improviser and instructor, she helps others communicate with confidence, creativity, and a sense of play and possibility.
Short Bio (97 words)
Sehar Manji is a veteran improviser, actor, writer, comedian, and instructor based in Montreal. Born and raised in Nairobi, she has performed across North America at festivals like Just For Laughs, OFF-JFL, and the Vancouver International Improv Festival. She was part of CBC’s Kim’s Convenience Emerging Writers’ Room and has appeared on Transplant (NBC), Pillow Talk (Crave), and the upcoming film Love & Chaos, as well as in many commercials, including one with Ryan Reynolds. In 2023, she made her stage debut in The Rishta at Montreal’s Centaur Theatre. Sehar is also a TEDx speaker and communication coach.