Ciao Xinyu Zhao is a Los Angeles-based Chinese producer with a diverse background in narrative shorts, documentaries, and commercials. Hailing from Shanghai, she relocated to LA in 2018 to study Communication and Jewish Studies at USC. Her producing career began at DxChannel, a leading Chinese video brand, where her projects garnered over one million views online. She has collaborated extensively with female and AAPI filmmakers, with her narrative shorts receiving recognition at prominent festivals such as the Palm Springs International ShortFest and LA Shorts.

Ciao’s journey in the industry began as a development intern at SK Global Entertainment. She later gained experience at Nine Stories Productions, Atlas Entertainment, and Rideback, where she is now part of the feature team behind projects like THE TWO POPES, ALADDIN and LILO & STITCH. Committed to championing diverse voices in Hollywood, Ciao blends her creative producing and development expertise to support meaningful storytelling.

Beyond development, Ciao has contributed to esteemed organizations, including the Shanghai International Film Festival, Austin Film Festival, and LA Chinese Film Festival. She is currently a Creative Executive Fellow in Film Independent’s 2024 Project Involve Program, furthering her mission to amplify underrepresented voices in the entertainment industry.