About Us
NewFilmmakers Los Angeles (NFMLA) is a non-profit 501(c) 3 organization that champions emerging and independent filmmakers and storytellers from around the world and provides a forum where filmmakers can be recognized for their contributions, have open audience discussions about their work and connect with industry professionals for insight on distribution, production and representation.
In an effort to showcase, support, educate and build relationships for next-gen filmmakers, NFMLA has rapidly expanded beyond the NFMLA Monthly Film Festival to host an array of workshops, panels, competitions and networking programs, including the InFocus initiative which combats the lack of representation in media by celebrating underrepresented voices.
What We Do
NFMLA supports emerging filmmakers through exhibition, career development, education, mentorship, funding, and industry access
Film Festivals & Showcases
We present year-round film screenings and curated showcases that spotlight emerging filmmakers and connect their work with audiences and industry professionals.
NFMLA Monthly Film Festival
A recurring film showcase featuring curated short and feature films from emerging voices, followed by Q&As and industry networking opportunities.
InFocus Series
A thematic screening series highlighting diverse perspectives in filmmaking, paired with conversations that explore representation and storytelling.
DocuSlate
A dedicated platform for documentary filmmakers to present work-in-progress and completed films that address real-world stories and issues.
Best of NFMLA Awards
An annual celebration recognizing standout films and filmmakers from NFMLA’s year-round programming.
Artist Development Programs
We support filmmakers through labs, intensives, and initiatives that provide mentorship, funding opportunities, and career-building industry access.
STARZ #TakeTheLead Writers’ Intensive
A competitive development program supporting underrepresented writers with mentorship, workshops, and industry exposure.
NewNarratives
A filmmaker development initiative designed to amplify emerging voices through curated opportunities and professional guidance.
Interview Series
A spotlight series featuring conversations with filmmakers and industry professionals about craft, career paths, and creative process.
Stage 5 Interview Series
An in-depth interview program offering filmmakers a platform to share their journeys and insights into the industry.
Education & Mentorship
We offer hands-on learning experiences, workshops, and mentorship programs designed to guide the next generation of filmmakers and storytellers.
CineSessions High School Mentorship Program
A mentorship program that introduces high school students to filmmaking through hands-on training and direct industry guidance.
Workshops & Panels
Educational sessions led by industry professionals covering filmmaking skills, career development, and creative best practices.
University & Community Partnerships
Collaborations with schools and organizations that expand access to film education and professional pathways.
Industry & Community Engagement
We create networking opportunities, special events, and partnerships that strengthen connections within the film community and expand access to the industry.
Networking Events
Events designed to connect filmmakers, industry professionals, and creatives to foster collaboration and career opportunities.
Special Events & Programs
Unique screenings, activations, and community gatherings that expand engagement beyond the core festival programming.
Accessibility Initiatives (e.g., TeenTix LA)
Programs focused on increasing access to film culture and industry experiences for underserved and youth audiences.
Staff
Leads the festival’s day-to-day operations, working year-round to bring exceptional films and meaningful community experiences to life
Bojana Sandic
Programming Director
bojana@nfmla.org
Daphne Trinh
Education & Industry Programs Manager
daphne@nfmla.org
Francesca Escarraga
Event and Program Manager
francesca@nfmla.org
George Gomez
Programs & Operations Manager
george@nfmla.org
Larry Laboe
Executive Director
larry@nfmla.org
Lauren Muniz
Programs Coordinator
lauren@nfmla.org
Philip Huynh
Website Consultant
philip@lamboss.co
Board of Directors
Provides leadership and oversight, helping ensure the organization remains true to its mission and future goals
Danny De Lillo
Board Chair
David Quan
Board Member
Divya D’Souza
Board Member
Senior VP, Invention Studios
Erin O’Malley
Secretary - Board Member
Georgina González Rodríguez
Board Member
Universal International Studios
Margaret Wu
Board Member
Founder at 3 Dots Entertainment
Screening committee
Reviews film submissions and helps curate a diverse program showcasing outstanding storytelling and creative voices
Aashish D’Mello
Screening Committee Member
Adriana Frausto
Screening Committee Member
Amit Pal Bharath
Screening Committee Member
Ana Laura Echenique
Screening Committee Member
Devyn Moore
Screening Committee Member
Efren Rodriguez
Screening Committee Member
Estarlyn Hiraldo
Screening Committee Member
Guido Segal
Screening Committee Member
Henry Alexander Kelly
Screening Committee Member
Jonathan Hammond
Screening Committee Member
Jose Alfredo Facio Gonzalez
Screening Committee Member
Nidhin Patel
Screening Committee Member
Shawn Gagne
Screening Committee Member
Silvia Bizio
Screening Committee Member
Sunny Vachher
Screening Committee Member
Founder: CEO, SUNNY
Teresa Cebrián
Screening Committee Member
Zachary Brenner
Screening Committee Member
Zekun Mao
Screening Committee Member
Advisory Board
Provides industry expertise, strategic guidance, and community perspectives that help strengthen the festival’s mission
Damien Lichtenstein
CEO of Equilibrium Entertainment
Franco Sama
Independent Feature Film Producer
Volunteer Committee
Our Volunteer Committee supports the recruitment and coordination of the dedicated volunteers who help make the festival a success
Eloise Fairbrother
Volunteer Member
Jaime Diaz
Volunteer Member
Joshua Johnson-Bolden
Volunteer Member
Joshua Quizon
Volunteer Member
