A storyteller between two worlds: the vibrant streets of Istanbul and the unstoppable energy of New York.

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A graduate of METU Business Administration, Çiğdem Topaloğlu built a successful career as a senior executive in the automotive industry before following her true passion — cinema. She founded Lavanta Film, marking the beginning of her filmmaking journey.

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Blending social and personal sensitivity with emotional depth, she has produced, written, and/or directed five short films, all of which have competed at national and international film festivals. Three of these films received production support from the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

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Beyond the camera, Topaloğlu holds professional tour guide certifications in English and French. A lifelong traveler, she continues to explore the world in search of untold stories hidden within different cultures, people, and everyday moments.