ABOUT

TRANSFORMING STORIES,
TRANSFORMING LIVES

The Latino Film Institute (LFI) showcases, strengthens, and celebrates the richness of the Latino perspective by providing a pipeline, platform, and launching pad from our community into the entertainment industry.

Meet the LFI Team! Get to know the incredible people who use their passion and innovative thinking to empower Latinos and elevate their voices. You’ll discover the skills and personalities of our staff members and learn about the diverse backgrounds of our board members. Each of them contributes unique expertise and plays a vital role in making our vision a reality.

EXECUTIVES

Axel Caballero

Chief Executive Officer

Jennifer Rios

VP of Operations

Loraine Valverde

VP of Communications

DIRECTORS

Diana Cadavid

Director of Industry Programs

Hector Chaira

Director of Education Programs

STAFF

Alexander Pacillas

Technology Manager

Christine Salazar

External Affairs Liaison

Courtney L. Branch

Industry Programs Manager

Giovanni Argueta

Education Programs Coordinator

Jeff Aquino

Technology Coordinator

Liliana Hueso

Education Programs Manager

Marisa Guerin

Education Programs Coordinator

Nagisel Esparza

Operations Coordinator

Randy Cruz

People and Culture Manager

Salvador Martinez

Communications Coordinator

Saúl Gutierrez

Education Programs Coordinator

Steven Uribe

Industry Programs Coordinator

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Edward James Olmos

Founder & Board Chairman

Bonifacio Bonny Garcia

Board President

Dr. Ana-Christina Ramón

Vice President

Jaime Ortiz

Board Member

Jay Nomura

Board Member

Pete Corona

Board Member

Steven Zubkoff

Board Member

MORE NEWS

Latino Film Institute Announces LFI Spark Animation Fellowship’s 5th Cohort

Animation Magazine

Latino Film Institute (LFI) today announced the fifth cohort of the LFI Spark Animation Fellowship, one of the organization’s signature programs designed to support emerging animation filmmakers. Supported by Netflix, the fellowship provides financial support, mentorship and industry guidance to help filmmakers develop and complete original animated short films.

LATINO FILM INSTITUTE ANNOUNCES FIFTH COHORT OF LFI SPARK ANIMATION FELLOWSHIP

LOS ANGELES, CA – JUNE 29, 2026 – Latino Film Institute (LFI) today announced the fifth cohort of the LFI Spark Animation Fellowship, one of the organization’s signature programs designed to support emerging animation filmmakers. Supported by Netflix, the fellowship provides financial support, mentorship, and industry guidance to help filmmakers develop and complete original animated short films.

JENNIFER LOPEZ TO RECEIVE ADELANTE AWARD FOR INDUSTRY AT OPENING NIGHT OF LALIFF’S 25TH EDITION

The Latino Film Institute (LFI) today unveiled the official artwork and expanded ticketing model for the milestone 25th edition of the Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival (LALIFF), taking place May 27–31, 2026, in Hollywood at the historic TCL Chinese Theatres.