ABOUT
Nilüfer Lily Kaya is a writer, director, and producer based in Chicago. She holds a BA in Film and History from Loyola University Chicago.​​ Originally from Turkey, Nilüfer immigrated to the United States and became deeply involved in community building, engagement, and outreach within the nonprofit sector. ​Her dual degree in History and Film reflects her passion for understanding the sociopolitical world through the lens of visual storytelling. As a film director, she continues to explore history and politics through her work. Her most recent project, Letter 29, is a docu-fiction short film taking place in an exhibition that displays letters written anonymously by people who cannot return to their home countries safely. After completing fundraising and production, the project is currently in post-production.
Nilüfer has also worked as a teaching assistant at the School of Creative and Performing Arts and in film development for Barry Films. She holds a seasonal role as a theater manager at the Telluride Film Festival, the Chicago International Film Festival, and the Chicago Humanities Festival. Her commitment to storytelling that challenges norms and inspires change is central to her work. ​In addition to her work in development and production, Nilüfer’s passion for the arts led to her selection for the 2024 Telluride Student Symposium, a prestigious opportunity for emerging filmmakers. Nilüfer has also had her short films screened at film festivals across the Midwest as a producer and is currently supporting the development of several projects.