Meet with
Maryam Rahimova

Biography

Pushing boundaries and embracing authenticity, Maryam Rahimova, at 23, is carving a unique path in Azerbaijan's film industry. With a camera in hand since childhood, her passion for visual storytelling has blossomed into a promising career as a director, screenwriter, and filmmaker. For Maryam, filmmaking transcends technical skill; it's about capturing the essence of raw emotion.

Maryam's journey took a significant leap at 19 with her documentary "Next Station," a poignant exploration of three contrasting lives united by the universal search for love and purpose. That project resonated as a powerful declaration, not merely a film.Selected to represent Azerbaijan at the Adami Media Prize Project Pitching, "Next Station" garnered significant crowdfunding, proving Maryam's ability to resonate with audiences and secure support for her vision.

Her experiences extend far beyond Baku. While studying in Istanbul, Maryam secured accreditation to the Cannes Film Festival and later attended the Sarajevo Film Festival, immersing herself in the global film community. These festivals offered more than networking opportunities; they were crucial for her development and understanding of the global film industry. "It was the turning point that unlocked countless new opportunities and experiences," Maryam recalls, highlighting the doors these festivals opened for her.

For Maryam, filmmaking is deeply personal. "I always write and strive to direct stories that allow me to explore my own emotions and experiences," she explains. This emotional honesty is her unique approach, setting her apart from others. She believes in trusting her instincts, even when others recommend changes for the sake of reason or popular opinion. "Follow what feels right to you," she emphasizes, advocating for authenticity over conformity. "You should go with whatever you feel right," she emphasizes, advocating for authenticity over conformity.

Maryam's ambition extends beyond personal success. She dreams of building a stronger bridge between Azerbaijan and the international film industry. "I seek to bring the stories I direct—whether rooted in Azerbaijan or shaped by its culture—to the attention of international film professionals," she says, envisioning a future where Azerbaijani films gain global recognition. She’s determined to showcase Azerbaijan's rich culture and history to a wider audience, believing there are countless stories yet to be told.

To aspiring filmmakers, Maryam's advice is clear: "Believe your instincts and chase your dreams." She urges young professionals to embrace their unique style and vision, rather than conforming to industry standards. "Your art should always reflect your own soul, heart, andemotions," she says, emphasizing the importance of personal connection to one's work.

Maryam's creative process is a journey of dream realization. "Dreamer" is the word she chooses to describe herself, but it's a dreamer who turns visions into reality. As she continues to push boundaries and challenge the status quo, Maryam Rahimova isn't just telling stories—she's inspiring a new generation of Azerbaijani filmmakers to dream big and allow others to connect with their truth through cinema.