LFI Spark Animation Fellowship 2023-2024 | Latino Film Institute

PROGRAMS

2023-2024 LFI SPARK ANIMATION FELLOWSHIP

Alec Castillo

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

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

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

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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.

Marcella Ochoa: Interview

Filmmaker Marcella Ochoa, founder of 8A Entertainment, has built a career telling stories that center Latino voices and explore bold social themes through genre. From co-writing the Blumhouse feature Madres to mentoring emerging storytellers through LALIFF and the Youth Cinema Project, Ochoa is as committed to the next generation as she is to her own craft.

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.

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