Naomi Rey, born Rachel Naomi Appel, is a multifaceted visionary. Blending her talents as a filmmaker, creative director, musician, experience designer, and project manager, she has built a dynamic life for herself. She graduated from Hunter College with a Bachelor's in Environmental Studies and completed a Master's in International Journalism at City University of London, showcasing her diverse capabilities.

 

Her passion for truth was nurtured in a household where honesty was valued above all else, setting the stage for her journalism career. Naomi made her mark by writing, directing, and editing the controversial documentary, The Dark Side of Tulum — a compelling exposé that has garnered over 1.2 million views. She has collaborated with award-winning producers and actors as field producer and editor, and her work has been recognized in publications like New York Magazine, Mind Body Green, Films For Action, and The Beam Magazine.

 

Beyond the screen, Naomi is a powerful singer-songwriter. Her deepest passion is weaving stories that explore proximities between contrasting dualities — whether in her lyrics, experiential designs, or journalistic endeavors. She believes contrast is our greatest teacher and that true enlightenment comes from learning to dance with our darkness, not just walking in the light.

 

Growing up in a family of change-makers and protectors, Naomi’s path has been deeply influenced by her father, Brian Appel, an inventor and scientific advisor for Eden Energy — a groundbreaking waste-to-energy technology that mimics the earth's process to make clean, carbon neutral oil, gas, and fertilizer. Her brother, Jonathan Appel, is dedicated to revolutionizing the energy industry as co-founder and CEO. Naomi honors her family’s legacy as a strategic partner of Eden Energy.

 

During her childhood, the Appel household was filled with worldly artifacts and books about ancient cultures and modern innovations, naturally inspiring Naomi to explore her own spirituality. In 2017, she began her journey with psychedelics and plant medicines and has since co-founded Temple Matrika. This sanctuary challenges the patriarchal stronghold often found in deep plant ceremonies, embracing a more fluid and feminine approach to healing — reminding us that Mother Nature's teachings were never meant to be confined by strict or intimidating practices.

 

Naomi Rey's latest projects — Flores Sagradas, Casa Akasha, and her upcoming debut album, are a testament to the power of creativity, truth, and authenticity, as she continues to push the boundaries of what it means to be both a creator and a disruptor in today’s ever-changing world.