Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Nehir Onay. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Nehir, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What’s the best or worst investment you’ve made (either in terms of time or money)? (Note, these responses are only intended as entertainment and shouldn’t be construed as investment advice)

The worst investment, without a doubt, is time. It’s the one resource that, once spent, cannot be replenished. In the pursuit of various projects and engagements, there have been instances where what initially appeared as a promising investment of time, energy, and sometimes even financial resources turned out to be less rewarding than anticipated. My mother’s wisdom has always resonated with me in such situations—she emphasizes the importance of resilience, the ability to rise after a fall, and to persist on one’s chosen path.

Every setback, every project that didn’t unfold as expected, and every person who didn’t turn out to be what they seemed at first glance has been a lesson in resilience and discernment. These experiences, although not always pleasant, serve as invaluable learning opportunities. They teach us to be more selective in what we choose to invest our time and efforts in, guiding us to refine our judgment and decision-making processes.

It’s through these not-so-pleasant experiences that we gain a deeper understanding of our own values, aspirations, and the criteria for what constitutes a worthwhile investment. The ability to navigate setbacks and view them as stepping stones toward personal and professional growth is a testament to the resilience that my mother advocates. In the grand scheme of life, time is the most precious commodity, and learning from less-than-ideal investments ensures that each subsequent choice is made with greater wisdom and foresight.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Short Bio: Nehir is a producer born and raised in Turkey, based in Miami, FL. Her NYWIFT-winning documentary Sur Les Pointes won first place at the Cannes Short Film Festival in 2020. Nehir is a CCNY Film MFA program alumni. Her thesis project -partially funded by the Ostrovsky Family in honor of Chantal Akerman, is about America’s first supermodel, Audrey Munson, has been described as a beautifully meditated love letter that uplifts and celebrates the New York City art, architecture, and culture. Nehir’s most recent production projects include Bezos: The Beginning (2023).

Personal Statement:
I am a Film Producer currently based in Miami, FL. My journey into the film industry began with a deep-rooted passion for research, exemplified by a dissertation presented to the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkiye. This project delved into the diaspora experienced by Cretan, earning me recognition in the Aegean Region. My diverse cultural background and international experiences have shaped my perspective, fostering a commitment to promoting cultural diversity in storytelling. My trilingual education (Turkish, English, German) and exposure to diverse cultural contexts enable me to connect with individuals globally. This multicultural background, coupled with my international experiences, positions me uniquely to contribute to discussions on inclusive and diverse educational practices within film studies (even though my German is pretty rusty at the moment).

The intersection of my curiosity for research and love for literature, photography, and music naturally guided me toward a career in filmmaking. The piano lessons from the state conservatory pianist during my formative years shaped me into the discipline of a professional musician. I discovered that film is where all these creative avenues converge. My academic journey includes earning both B.Sc. and MFA degrees in Film, refining analytical skills, and deepening my understanding of film history, theory, and production. Noteworthy works include short documentaries such as the NYWIFT-winning “Sur Les Pointes,” exploring the fusion of classical ballet with contemporary Spanish culture. The short film was awarded the Best Documentary at the 2020 Cannes Short Film Festival. My master’s thesis film, “Dear Audrey,” partially funded by the Ostrovsky Family in honor of Chantal Akerman, is about America’s first supermodel, Audrey Munson, has been described as a beautifully meditated love letter that uplifts and celebrates the New York City art, architecture, and culture.

Complementing my academic pursuits, I’ve garnered hands-on experience, starting as a Production Assistant on major television network shows and currently serving as a Producer for an independent production company. These roles have provided a comprehensive understanding of the filmmaking process, solidifying my commitment to bridging the gap between film theory and practice. My latest projects include Bezos: The Beginning (2023), a feature biopic, that chronicles the true-life story of Jeff Bezos-a humble yet awkward entrepreneur on his mission to create Amazon, the world’s largest e-commerce company, and turn himself into the richest man in the world.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Amidst the uncertainties brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, resilience became a defining chapter in my journey. On March 13th, 2020, our film production abruptly shut down indefinitely, leaving the future uncertain. The industry came to a standstill, and we faced a cascade of unknowns – when production would resume, how our daily lives would be reshaped, and what the post-pandemic landscape held for filmmakers like me.

In the face of this adversity, I made a pivotal decision. Rather than succumbing to the challenges, I saw an opportunity for personal and professional growth. I chose to pursue a master’s degree, viewing this unexpected hiatus as a chance to invest in myself and my education. This decision wasn’t merely about obtaining a degree; it was a testament to the belief that consistency and perseverance in the face of challenges yield rewards.

This period of uncertainty turned into a transformative journey of education and self-improvement. The commitment to continuous learning and personal development became a source of resilience. It served as a reminder that, in times of unpredictability, investing in oneself and staying consistent can be a beacon of hope. This experience taught me that hard work is a resilient force that, over time, manifests into meaningful outcomes. It reinforced the notion that dedicating time to personal and professional betterment is an investment that pays dividends, not just in education but in navigating the unpredictable nature of life and one’s career.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

In navigating the intersection of creativity, law, and business within the realm of filmmaking, several resources have profoundly shaped my management and entrepreneurial thinking. Understanding the legal complications of independent filmmaking is crucial, and “The American Bar Association’s Legal Guide to Independent Filmmaking” by Lisa A. Callif and Michael C. Donaldson has been an indispensable guide. This book not only provides insights into legal considerations but also serves as a practical roadmap, ensuring that the creative process aligns seamlessly with legal requirements.

“Producer to Producer: A Step-by-step Guide to Low-budget Independent Film Producing” by Maureen A. Ryan is another influential resource. Ryan’s comprehensive guide offers a step-by-step approach to producing independent films on a budget. This resource has not only enhanced my understanding of the logistical and financial aspects of film production but has also provided valuable insights into navigating the challenges unique to low-budget filmmaking. It has been a foundational resource in developing my entrepreneurial mindset within the context of the film industry.

Most recently, “Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals” by Oliver Burkeman has been a thought-provoking addition to my reading list. This book delves into the finite nature of time and the importance of focusing on what truly matters. Burkeman’s insights have resonated deeply, prompting a reflection on the limited time we have on Earth. This perspective has been transformative, influencing my approach to time management, decision-making, and prioritizing aspects of both my personal and professional life. It has become a guiding philosophy in my entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the significance of investing time in endeavors that align with one’s core values and aspirations.

In essence, these resources collectively contribute to my holistic understanding of filmmaking, blending creativity with legal acumen and entrepreneurial thinking. They have not only enriched my knowledge but have also provided practical tools for navigating the complexities of the film industry while encouraging a mindful and purpose-driven approach to time and project management.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://bio.site/nehironay
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nehiironay/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nehironay/