PROGRAMS

2023-2024 LFI SPARK ANIMATION FELLOWSHIP

Alec Castillo

Alec Castillo is a Cuban-American animator, comedian, and filmmaker originally from Miami and currently based in Los Angeles. Alec’s past animation and illustrations have been featured on Adult Swim, Netflix, FunnyOrDie, Mitú and more. He is a recipient of the 2023 LXiA Spark Animation Grant supported by Netflix. As a stand-up comic, Alec has performed at comedy clubs like The Comedy Store, The Laugh Factory, and the Improv and has opened for Ralph Barbosa and Therapy Gecko.

Title of Project: Pollo Punch

Sandra Suarez

Sandra Suarez is a Mexican-American director, writer and stop-motion animator currently residing in Los Angeles, California. She learned stop-motion animation skills with world-renowned Aardman Animations through their academy program. She has worked with clients both in Mexico and the United States, most recently directing and producing an animated project with SyFy, which also combines stop-motion and 2D animation. Sandra strives to create stories that explore the messiness of life and encourage kindness to oneself and others. Her projects range from silly, wacky and weird to introspective and sincere. Like Isabel, Sandra enjoys crocheting and lives with her (evil) cat.

Title of Project: Roots

Danna Galeano

Danna Galeano, a Colombian filmmaker and animation director, stands out in the world of storytelling with her distinctive approach to ‘what if’ narratives. A graduate in filmmaking and animation, Danna has developed a robust portfolio as a Motion Graphic Designer, bringing animated characters and stories to life. Recognized for her storytelling prowess since winning her first film award at 17 at the Bogotá Film Festival, she has continued to capture audiences with her imaginative worlds. Danna’s stories have competed in prestigious festivals such as Pixelatl, Ventana Sur, and Iberseries & Platino.

Title of Project: Marvelous Gift

MORE NEWS

Nuestras Historias Importan: A Conversation with Liliana Hueso

For Liliana Hueso, storytelling is about creating connection, building community, and helping people feel seen. In this Staff Spotlight, Liliana shares the experiences that shaped her creative journey, the lessons she’s learned from young storytellers, and why she believes nuestras historias importan.

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.