TROY PRYOR
Troy Pryor is a multifaceted media producer, director, and entrepreneur based in Chicago, renowned for his commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices in the entertainment industry. He is the founder of Creative Cypher, an innovative entertainment ecosystem designed to empower diverse creatives by providing resources, mentorship, and platforms for storytelling. Pryor’s work spans various media, including collaborations with major networks like ABC, Warner Brothers, and TV One, and he has been recognized with accolades such as the for Telly Awards. Pryor currently serves as VP of SAG-AFTRA Chicago and on host of boards & councils.
A Chicago native, Troy prides himself in being an affluent connector, and for the to amplifying BIPOC creators’ voices. With his extensive experience in theater and film, he quickly discovered the need to connect undiscovered diverse talent to mainstream media platforms. Troy began to create an ecosystem of talent through his entertainment brand Creative Cypher.
A proud alumni and linebacker of University of Illinois (2007), Troy was the youngest person ever to be elected to SAG-AFTRA Chicago’s Board of Directors and was a mentor for President Barack Obama’s White House project, A Call to Arts.
As a Chicago Scholars 35 Under 35, Ariel Investments/WVON 40 Game Changer, Black Enterprise TCX Fellow, and ADColor nominated Innovator of the Year, Pryor has a tenacity for innovation and big-picture, strategic thinking. Still very much grounded in the values of his church family, he continues to spend his time ministering, mentoring, and coaching as he strives daily to reach his full potential.
BOARDS & TEAMS
OBAMA Foundation
MBK Alliance Chicago Team
SAG-AFTRA Chicago
Vice President
Soho House Global Inclusivity
Board Member
Flossmoor Arts Council
Board Member
Definition Theater
Artistic Advisory Board
Black Arts and Culture Alliance
Board Member
Chicago Alliance of Film Festivals
Advisory Board
Chicago International Film Festival
Advisor
AS SEEN ON
Pryor Holdings
