Lekhani is a recent graduate of the Channel 4 New Writers Scheme 24/25, where she wrote CUMBRIAN LASS, her first spec with script editor Cleo Bicat and received commissioner feedback from Louise Donald. This script is available for option. Lekhani was mentored by Hannah Cheers at Lime Pictures in February 2025, where she worked with the writing team across 2 days. This included one-to-one meetings with Hannah Cheers, Angelo Abela, Tim Compton and Steve Hughes to gain insight into writing operations at Lime.

Lekhani participated in a story lining conference for Hollyoaks short term and wraps with the writers team: Hannah Cheers, Si Wall, Adam Bennet-Lea, James Coleman, Steve Hughes and Marco Murru. Contributing suggestions for story lines based on current character arcs. She worked with a script editor on the existing Hollyoaks episodic scripts to understand how edits are made and also worked with the researcher team to understand compliance and guidance when it comes to writing continuing drama.

Lekhani joined training weekends with Selina Ukwuoma, Hannah Robinson and Hayley McKenzie. It was here that she completed assignments and learnt all about story structure, character, dialogue for screen as well as networking, pitching and outlining skills when it comes to her own writing. Lekhani also attended Masterclasses with Jimmy McGovern, Adjani Salmon, Charlie Covell, Lucy Kirkwood, Matt Berry, Nerys Evans, Camilla Wells and Philippa Lowthorpe to gain industry insight on screenwriting and learn more about their writing journeys.

Lekhani has recently written for Vignettes, her play Behind Closed Doors was performed at Hope Mill Theatre on 3rd-8th March 2026. This is Lekhani’s third time collaborating with Her Productions on Vignettes.

Over the years she has completed playwriting courses such as WoLaboratory, Soho Writers Lab, Tamasha Playwrights and PlayBox Playwrights (Box of Tricks).

Writing commissions include Signal Fires by 45 North, Burn Bright, BBC’s Famalam and Her Productions ‘Vignettes’.

Her Soho Writers Lab play; Sense’s of Responsibility was shortlisted for the Lancaster Playwriting Prize and was part of Switch Mcr’s double bill over Summer 2022 and went on to get a 5 star review. It has been adapted into a filmed resource for schools across Manchester to highlight the experiences of young carers. You can book Lekhani to deliver this project by clicking here.

Lekhani’s passion lies in telling stories that often go unheard. She’s dedicated to reflecting the diverse experiences of those within our society who don’t always have a voice. Her work is an inspiring testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to connect us all.

Reviews:

Behind Closed Doors

“Chirwa’s writing is powerful and direct, while Sherratt delivers an impressive performance that gradually builds tension and emotional intensity.”

Behind Closed Doors explores what really happens to Chantelle when coercion takes over and she is at her breaking point. Will she get the support she needs?

As part of Vignettes in collaboration with Her Place charity. This instalment focused on the lived experience of mothers who have had their children removed from their care. Lekhani is hoping to develop this script into a short film with the WFTV short film fund.

With performances from Sheridan Sherratt, Tom Hardman and Laura Littlewood, the play offers an intimate and unsettling look at the reality of abusive relationships hidden behind public façades.

Senses of responsibilty

Young carer Symonie struggles to come to terms with her Mum’s genetic condition, caring for her whilst trying to live a ‘normal’ life and the dilemma of deciding whether to get tested for the condition herself. Should Symonie go off to live her own life or continue to care as she has always known? As part of a double bill alongside Switch MCR’s showcase of new playwrights.

A Day in the life of

A Day in the Life Of, is a snapshot into what its like to work at Greater Manchester Rape Crisis, a journey of self discovery, self care and community spirit. Vignettes produced by Her Productions in collaboration with GMRC.

Bad Tash

Tash is here to put on a show, she is confident and dedicated to ensuring everyone has a good time, but will she manage to impress? Vignettes produced by Her Productions.

Worked with:

Below are some of the organisations Lekhani has worked with as a playwright, screenwriter and delivered project commissions. The names shown here reflect her work across theatre, film and TV.

WRITING AWARDS, SHORTLISTED & LONGLISTED

Interview for Channel 4 Writing for Television Awards 2026: Hat Trick Productions

10-page read for BBC’s Open Call 25/26

Shortlisted for Divided Culture Co Playwriting Prize 2025
Won Best Writer for MAP 48.7 2022
Shortlisted for Lancaster Playwriting Prize 2021
Script placed in the top 10 for The Tony Craze Award 2020 (Soho Theatre)
Longlisted for Traverse Theatre’s Open Script Submissions 2020
Contact Me:

Please get in touch directly if you would like to hire Lekhani as a writer – lekhani.chirwa[@]gmail.com