Riley Nimens is a multi-award-winning producer, director, and business strategist known for her innovative approach and dynamic leadership in the media industry. With ten plus years of experience in producing live events, documentaries, and compelling stories, Riley captivates global audiences with her exceptional storytelling skills and unwavering commitment to delivering memorable experiences and content.
Riley began her career at CTV National News and CTV News Channel, producing multi-platform stories under tight deadlines before transitioning to Discovery Channel's "Daily Planet," where she produced international specials and cutting edge technology focused stories for broadcast. As a Segment Producer at CTV's "Your Morning," she was selected as an initial producer for a new national morning news program, creating diverse content again under strict time constraints for both in-studio and on-location broadcasts.
Riley later took on the role of an Investigative Journalist/Producer at CTV's flagship investigative series "W5," where she played a key role in producing thought-provoking documentaries on important issues facing Canadians coast-to-coast.
Next, she opted to explore new horizons on her own, transitioning to freelance work full-time in 2022. Riley engaged in diverse projects around the globe, collaborating on high-stakes documentaries, producing in-stadium entertainment shows for some of the world’s biggest sporting events including the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, FIFA Club World Cup, Concacaf Nations League, 2023 Concacaf Gold Cup and the BNP Paribas Open.
Also in 2022, Riley pushed the boundaries on her entrepreneurial journey by co-founding and directing RUNWAY Dance Connection, a Dance Competition and Convention hosting live events across Ontario aimed at inspiring young dancers.
Her recent acclaimed documentary, "BROKEN: The Toxic Culture of Canadian Gymnastics," garnered prestigious awards and recognition, including a Canadian Screen Award for "Best Documentary” and a RTDNA Award for "Excellence in Sports Reporting.” Next up, Riley is set to work on the Paris 2024 Olympics Games at the International Broadcast Centre (IBC) and then the US Tennis Open, further cementing her reputation as an exceptional producer, director, and creative visionary.
Transforming Ideas into Reality with Creative and Bold Strategies
Riley Nimens
Award Winning Director-Producer
Large-scale Events | Documentaries | Branded Content
With years of experience and successful projects, Riley is a trusted expert.
Learn more about me
About me
Helping clients make an impact from the very beginning
Backed by years of experience and a portfolio of successful projects, Riley has established herself as a trusted expert.
2010 - 2012
Producer at CTV National News & CTV News Channel
Started in the CTV National Newsroom / News Channel, producing multi-platform stories and reports for Canada's top national network and international broadcasts.
2012 - 2016
Field Producer at Discovery Channel’s “Daily Planet”
Transitioned to Discovery Channel’s “Daily Planet,” producing in-studio and on-location science demonstrations for the nightly science and technology show, contributed to multiple one-hour international specials and to Shark Week.
2016 - 2018
Segment Producer at CTV’s “Your Morning”
Selected as an initial producer for a new national morning program, conducting research and worked closely with show personalities and producers to develop engaging segments for the show’s broadcast, social media, and Canada 150 coverage.
2019 - 2022
Investigative Journalist/Producer at CTV's "W5"
Collaborated closely with a talented team of investigative journalists in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, working to produce thought-provoking documentaries that shed light on important issues facing Canadians across the country and the world.
2022
Dr Cliff Worldwide Vet - Hyderabad, India
Led a multi-camera team capturing the journey of a Canadian veterinarian who travels globally to rescue wild animals alongside his daughter. The documentary has won multiple awards at various Film Festivals.
2022
FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 / FIFA Club World Cup - Qatar & Morocco
Managed the in-stadium entertainment for pre-match, half-time, and post-match events. Collaborated with talent and officials to create engaging experiences, coordinate in-match protocol, award ceremonies, branded activations, and social initiatives.
2023
Concacaf Champions League, Nations League and Gold Cup
Collaborated with the Concacaf brand and competition team to create and deliver a unique infotainment show, in-match protocol, and awards ceremonies at over 15 stadiums across the United States throughout multiple tournaments.
2023
Co-Founder and Director of RUNWAY Dance Connection
A major milestone in my entrepreneurial journey was co-founding a dance organization and hosting live competitions that seeks to inspire and educate hundreds of kids, while promoting the organization's mission and vision.
2024
Dear Taliban - Journey to Pakistan
Was challenged in various aspects by taking on a new role as Director of Photography/Producer, connecting with brave Afghan women who have faced immense challenges and displacement since 2021.
2022 - 2024
BROKEN: The Toxic Culture of Canadian Gymnastics
Produced a 90-minute documentary delving into the toxic culture of gymnastics, addressing abuse allegations and the lasting effects on athletes. The documentary garnered prestigious accolades, including the RTDNA Award for "Excellence in Sports Reporting" and a Canadian Screen Award for "Best Documentary."