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.
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MORE NEWS
Creating Spaces to Educate, Engage, and Empower: The Leadership of Dr. David Nieto
For nearly two decades, Dr. David Nieto has shaped a culture across Hacienda La Puente Unified School District. In his three years as principal at Sparks Middle School, he has built a community where students are seen, heard, and empowered to lift others. Through hands-on mentorship and programs like the Youth Cinema Project that connect students with their community, his leadership is rooted in guiding, listening, and giving back.
Latino Film Institute Launches Futuro XR: 360° Video Lab
The Latino Film Institute (LFI) today announced the launch of the LFI Futuro XR: 360° Video Lab, a five-month fellowship designed to train storytellers in the art and technology of immersive 360° filmmaking while amplifying stories rooted in the Latino experience.
How Simone Kirlew Mentors and Produces with Purpose
For the past couple of years, producer Simone Kirlew has been a steady creative force behind the Youth Cinema Project Alumni Fellowship films, serving as producer mentor for the program’s last two alumni productions while acting as a vital link between the Latino Film Institute and each production team. Beyond nurturing the fellows’ creative vision, she oversaw the coordination that allowed each film to come to life, managing logistics, schedules, and on-the-ground production needs with precision and care.


