Meet Tori Ichikowitz | Director, Producer, Writer

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

Hi Tori, is there a quote or affirmation that’s meaningful to you?
One of my favorite quotes is from Shonda Rhimes, who describes the “hum” as “God’s whisper right in my ear.” I’ve always connected deeply with this idea. My “hum” is an unexplainable desire to excel, to strive, to create a moment of perfection found through the imperfection of our world. My “hum” expresses itself through my storytelling, my film work and my desire to create worlds through the arts and the medium of film. My “hum” is the basic desire to tell the stories that are born in my head. My “hum” is a story. I love this quote because it captures that intangible drive. The quiet, persistent force that fuels creativity even when the path isn’t clear. It reminds me to trust that inner rhythm and keep creating.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art lives at the intersection of storytelling, filmmaking, and cultural connection. As a South African Director, Writer and Producer based in Los Angeles, I’m driven by a desire to build bridges between worlds, whether that’s between continents, communities, or perspectives. I’m passionate about telling stories that center underrepresented voices, particularly women and emerging South African creators, and crafting immersive worlds that linger long after the screen goes dark.

What sets me apart is my dual perspective: I bring a global, cross-cultural lens to every project I take on, grounded in both the lived experience of growing up in South Africa and the rigorous training I received at the American Film Institute Conservatory. My work spans narrative shorts, feature films, commercials, and music videos, and I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with artists and filmmakers from around the world. Bringing diverse perspectives into the creative process has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey. Recently, some of my projects have been selected for several Oscar-qualifying film festivals and have even received recognition from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

The journey hasn’t been easy. Moving across the world to pursue a career in film came with real challenges: cultural shifts, finding new community, and the weight of carving out space in a competitive industry. But resilience, new friends and colleagues, and an unwavering belief in my stories carried me through. I learned to be resourceful, to build teams that share my vision, and to lead with curiosity and integrity.

What I want the world to know is that my work is rooted in a deep love for storytelling as a transformative act. My brand is about creating bold, cinematic, emotionally resonant work that connects audiences globally, while uplifting the communities and cultures that shaped me.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend came to visit LA for a week, I’d plan the kind of trip that mixes chill beach days, great food and a bit of adventure.

We’d kick things off with breakfast at Beachwood Café, tucked right under the Hollywood sign. It’s cozy, cute, and feels like a little local secret. After that, we’d wander through Griffith Park, grab something sweet and flaky at Trails Café ( my favorite thing is the egg bites!)

One of the days would 100% be a Leo Carrillo Beach day trip. It’s a little further out, but the scenic drive and the dramatic coastline make it completely worth it. We’d pack some snacks, take a dip, and just unwind.

Midweek, I’d take them vintage shopping on Melrose because nothing says “LA trip” like trying on a slightly questionable pair of cowboy boots or oversized sunglasses you’ll never wear again. It’s chaotic, colorful, and always a good time.

I’d definitely sneak in a dinner at Open Sesame! The Labneh dip is incredible and only topped by the grilled cauliflower pita.

The rest of the week would be sprinkled with impromptu gallery stops, late-night drives, and random adventures. LA’s best moments are the ones you don’t over-plan.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would love to give a shoutout to iSchoolAfrica, an incredible organization that has played a meaningful role in my journey. iSchoolAfrica brings Apple technology and creative education programs into underserved schools across South Africa, empowering young people with tools to express themselves and shape their futures. Working with them early in my career not only honed my skills as a storyteller and filmmaker, but also reminded me why I fell in love with this work in the first place. Stories have the power to educate, inspire, and create real change. The team’s vision and dedication to uplifting communities through creativity and access is something that continues to inspire me today.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toriichikowitz/