Meet Nicole Panashe | Filmmaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nicole Panashe and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nicole, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
As a creative, I am constantly brainstorming and developing new ideas that come to mind, no matter how big or small. With that, comes the evaluation each of these ideas and seeing which I would like to pursue further. This is where my imagination meets reality. Whether there are budget limitations, lack of resources or limited time, I always try to challenge my creativity in new ways and try something different in whatever project I have next. That in itself can be risky, as I am constantly choosing to step into an unfamiliar space whether in genre, location, collaboration, or style. But I have found that I always feel fulfilled when I am able to apply myself and my ideas to the fullest without feeling regret, rather than playing it safe and being afraid to take the risk.

Recently, I have been lucky enough to work on two projects this year that I allowed me to take risks with my creativity in new ways. ‘Plus One’ is a sketch comedy series that explores experiences of international/foreigners navigating life in America. I had never done comedy before, but always knew it was something I wanted to try as it is engrained in my personality, so being able to write, direct and produce the project successfully was a rewarding experience.

I also just finished filming my debut narrative short film ‘Totem’, a coming of age romantic comedy drama that explores the story of a young woman hustling to make ends meet. I took a big risk in creating this project, as I decided to film it in South Africa, with a cast and crew of people I had never met before. I also had never directed a romance genre before, so I was very nervous going into it and was worried that there would be no chemistry between the cast or crew. However, I was once again pleasantly surprised with how well everyone worked together, and the amazing story and visuals we were able to capture and tell. Though there were tough moments and challenges, I was still able to see the reward in the risks I took and learned lessons to improve on for my next project, which is all I can ask for. Overall, I believe risk taking and being brave encourage purpose and passion in my life, and I hope to continue to take new risks in my future projects.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I have always loved films and storytelling because of the ability to communicate emotional themes and thoughts visually. I enjoy using my creative voice to entertain by bringing to life stories that often go unheard, unseen or ignored. I explore thought-provoking, engaging narratives that implore audiences into action, often highlighting global perspectives. ​

I am particularly most proud of the projects I was able to create this year. My sketch comedy project ‘Plus One’, ‘Twin Flame’ a music video I was directed for Atlanta’s rising grammy-nominated artist DaVionne, and my upcoming African short film ‘Totem’ which I am excited to release next year. I believe that these types of stories are important to tell, and through each of them, there is a level of relatability, a sense of community, and belonging. Most importantly, there is an opportunity to learn, which can be beneficial and helpful for anyone who decides to watch.

I enjoy studying and creating work that focuses on the lived experiences of underrepresented communities. I am extremely passionate about stories centering cultural exploration, music, mental health, youth, sports, and often explore these topics in my work through the lens of my own unique perspective. I believe I use the things that make me different and set me apart as my strengths, such as my multi-cultural upbringing and athletic background. I hardly ever stayed in one place growing up and was constantly put in different environments with people from different countries. Living in places such as Zimbabwe, South Africa, and France as a child and teenager, greatly impacted the way I viewed the world and my role in it. Although there were difficult moments, I was able to overcome them by leaning on God and being determined to achieve my goals. The amount of challenges, growth and cultural exchange that was constantly available at such a young age allowed me to embrace and discover myself in dynamic ways, challenging me to constantly think outside of my comfort zone and be open to new experiences, which is how I approach my work today.

I hope to one day achieve my ultimate career goal of combining my sports and art backgrounds to enrich African entertainment, and create projects in the world of media and sport that give a platform and visibility to African stories and voices.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
It has been a minute since I have a been back in Atlanta, so I definitely have a list of go-to places I am excited to visit again. I would start off with a walk around Piedmont Park, exploring and embracing nature. I would then have brunch at Cafe Intermezzo, and spend my afternoon either watching a movie or at High Museum. Lastly, I would go to Ponce City Market to shop around and end my day with a nice dinner at one of their restaurants. These are some of my favourite places to go to in Atlanta, and I highly recommend them to anyone visiting town for the weekend.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I recently wrapped filming my short film ‘Totem’ that I had worked so hard to bring to life. As much work as it was behind the scenes, it could not have been made possible without the amazing support I received from the cast, crew and film organizations that showed me support in numerous ways. Whether through production support, film gear, investments or references, I was able to meet and work with so many kind-hearted creatives that believed in and supported me throughout the project.With that being said, I would like to shout out and thank the ‘Totem’ cast and crew, Zootees Studios, Thatand Films, and Soundspeed for all of their amazing support and guidance throughout my filming experience.

Instagram: https://instagram.com/kontimedia?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==

Other: Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/user107756629

Image Credits
Daniella Almona Stephanie Matarazzo