Nieshia Crawford, 36 Film and TV Producer
Nieshia Crawford is a powerhouse film and TV producer who’s worked on popular shows like Netflix’s Love is Blind. With an unshakable determination to bring stories to life, Niesha has fought her way to the top of a male-dominated film industry, setting her sights on big goals and pursuing them until they became her reality. Today, as a highly successful producer, Nieshia uses her platform to uplift other women and positively impact their lives. Through her work with organizations like S.H.A.R.E. House and Center Helping Obesity in Children End Successfully, Inc., Nieshia empowers women and families to rise above their challenges and achieve their dreams.
What inspired you to do this?
Initially, I was driven by my affinity for talking and having silly ideas. But, as I began to understand and practice my skills as a creative, I realized that I had a great opportunity as a woman of color in television. This became the driving force for my belief that no matter the genre, I would tell stories authentically and highlight the diversity of women as often as possible through the process.
Who inspires you?
I admire the resilience and positivity of my mother Norma Deas and the work ethic of my friend and producing colleague Vanessa Butler. My friend Andrea Williams inspires me to constantly reinvent myself without fear of failure. The vigor and love for the craft exhibited by my husband, Isaac Crawford, always challenges me to reevaluate my approach to new projects.
How do you stay motivated?
Gratitude. Whenever I am in an unfavorable headspace, I look around to the home and family I’ve built with my husband, my community of friends and the amazing opportunity that I have had to live out my dreams as a creative. In these moments, I remind myself that there were times when I prayed for the life I live now and to be thankful for my journey, both good and bad.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?
Every no is not necessarily an N-O. Sometimes it’s a K-N-O-W. Don’t assume that a no means you weren’t good enough, but instead, that you may not know enough right now. Don’t ever give up, though. Success lives on the opposite side of fear.
