Ciara Ray
Ciara (CiCi) Ray is a Los Angeles-based storyteller and advocate dedicated to amplifying the voices of underrepresented, vulnerable, and marginalized communities through immersive media. With a Bachelor of Arts in Television, Film, and Media Studies from California State University, Los Angeles, and an Associate of Arts in Arts and Humanities from Los Angeles Community College District, CiCi combines academic training with hands-on experience to bring compelling stories to life. Her career in production began through internship opportunities with the Group Effort Initiative and the Disney PA Initiative Program, leading to early roles on projects like Criminal Minds and advertising work with M3 Creative.
As a producer and production coordinator, CiCi has developed expertise across logistics, budgeting, crowdfunding, crew onboarding, payroll, scheduling, staffing, project management, and partner relations. Her portfolio includes coordinating commercial and TV productions for companies like Picture 304, Netflix’s Selling the OC, and Roku’s Honors Renovations with Jessica Alba, as well as a range of independent projects. Known for her collaborative communication style, she thrives in team environments while prioritizing professionalism, resourcefulness, and the well-being of her colleagues.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, CiCi is committed to mentorship and community engagement. She actively contributes to organizations including the Group Effort Initiative, Handy Foundation, Yandy Foundation, Latino Film Institute, and the Pan-African Film and Arts Festival. Passionate about fostering emerging talent, CiCi leverages her production expertise to support creators, strengthen industry connections, and ensure that every project she works on not only succeeds but uplifts the voices that matter most.
• California State University, Los Angeles - BA
• Group Effort Initiative
• Latino Film Institute
• Disney PA Initiative Program
• Pan-African Film and Arts Festival
• Yandy Foundation
• Handy Foundation
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the belief that no matter the challenges you face, your goals are always within reach. Hardship doesn’t define you—it can strengthen your resolve and drive. Mentorship, community, and giving back have been essential to my growth, and I make it a priority to support emerging professionals in the same way. My career vision was sparked in an eighth-grade digital media class, and it was nurtured through sustained hard work, persistence, guidance from mentors, and the sense of responsibility shaped by my life experiences.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to focus on building strong relationships and a supportive community. Be resourceful, maintain professionalism, and actively seek out mentorship while also offering it to others. Remember that hardship does not define your future—pursue opportunities boldly, learn from every experience, and give back whenever you can.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is breaking into the industry, particularly navigating unpaid entry-level work while balancing demanding schedules and prioritizing self-care. At the same time, there are exciting opportunities through programs and initiatives that expand access for underrepresented talent—such as the Group Effort Initiative, Handy Foundation, and Disney PA Initiative—which create meaningful pathways into production and open doors for emerging professionals.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are professionalism, resourcefulness, and a strong commitment to community and relationships. I take responsibility seriously and strive to give back whenever possible—whether through mentorship, volunteering, or supporting others in their growth.
Locations
Private Company
Harbor City, CA 90710