Imagen Insiders

Hello, my name is America Gallardo, I am a passionate and dedicated filmmaker. From pre-production to post, I live for the moments when stories come to life on screen. Whether I’m directing, producing, or assisting behind the scenes, I strive to work and collaborate to bring authentic stories to the screen.This combination of experiences gave me a well-rounded foundation. I learned everything from prepping and maintaining gear to loading trucks and troubleshooting last-minute issues, all while balancing school, set work, and the long commute. Ultimately, it taught me the grind behind the craft and shaped my approach, having a deep respect for both the creative and technical sides of filmmaking

The 2024 LDC U.S. Latinos in Media Report produced by the Latino Donor Collaborative, reveals that although Latinos make up “19.5% of the U.S. population—and 25% of the youth demographic”—their representation in English-language film and TV remains far below their population share. Despite Latinos contributing  “24% of box office ticket sales, 29% of mobile TV consumption, and  24% of streaming subscriptions, they occupy fewer than 10% of leading roles” in scripted television and films.This combination of experiences gave me a well-rounded foundation. I learned everything from prepping and maintaining gear to loading trucks and troubleshooting last-minute issues, all while balancing school, set work, and the long commute. Ultimately, it taught me the grind behind the craft and shaped my approach, having a deep respect for both the creative and technical sides of filmmaking

Arianna Lemus is a producer, actress, and founder of MíraLA Media, dedicated to amplifying Latina and femme-led storytelling. She directs the annual MíraLA Film Festival and has produced three short films, including Red Flags, and is currently developing her first feature documentary. A passionate advocate for mental health and representation, Arianna also serves on the NAMI San Fernando Valley board.
This combination of experiences gave me a well-rounded foundation. I learned everything from prepping and maintaining gear to loading trucks and troubleshooting last-minute issues, all while balancing school, set work, and the long commute. Ultimately, it taught me the grind behind the craft and shaped my approach, having a deep respect for both the creative and technical sides of filmmaking

My journey began in the grip and electric department. At the same time, I was studying film at the University of La Verne and working part-time at Blackstone Entertainment in Azusa—the closest rental house to where I lived, about an hour away. I spent those early years wrangling C-stands and wrapping cable until I eventually graduated into the role of Gaffer.

This combination of experiences gave me a well-rounded foundation. I learned everything from prepping and maintaining gear to loading trucks and troubleshooting last-minute issues, all while balancing school, set work, and the long commute. Ultimately, it taught me the grind behind the craft and shaped my approach, having a deep respect for both the creative and technical sides of filmmaking

Christine Valdivia is a versatile makeup artist with over 5 years of professional experience in film and television. Specializing in special effects, prosthetics, and high-definition makeup, she brings creativity and precision to every project. Known for transforming characters and enhancing storytelling, Christine is a trusted professional on set.

Germaine Franco is a Grammy-winning, Academy Award, and Emmy nominated composer and music producer known for her trailblazing work in film, TV, and interactive media. Franco is the first woman to score a Disney animated feature with Encanto. Her credits include Coco, The Mother, Tag, Dora And The Lost City of Gold, Dope, and Little. Recently, Franco collaborated with director Carlos López Estrada, the UFC, Silent House Productions, and Nexus studios on the state of the art immersive event, For Mexico, For All Time, at The Sphere, Las Vegas, for which she received a Sports Emmy nomination. Franco received a Billboard Music Award, two Annie Awards, an Imagen Award, and a Variety Artisans Award. Germaine holds a Master of Music from Rice University and a Doctorate of Music (h.c.) from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music.

Co-Founder and CFO Skye Bleu began producing after graduating from Chapman University with a dual degree in business and real estate. With an initial background in stage management, she cultivated a keen business perspective that she brings to every project.