It’s so important that we as women, people of color, LGBT Community, and the working class begin not to only be in front of lenses but part of the process behind them. We have to make sure we are telling our own stories. We are in a time period of risk, and taking our stories back so that we tell them ourselves is pivotal in staying true to our cultures, that act in itself can be revolutionary!

When you’re behind that lens, it can be harder and harder for people to take you serious. In my case, I kept pursuing a dream I kept pursuing on my values and against all odds. It’s important to state that our stories are not just fantasies but our road maps to reality. That’s how we get films unlike those that have never been seen before. There are so many different lenses that can be unlocked the more that we take risks in putting people behind the lenses that historically have not been there. There’s so much potential in our future, And frankly, the potential of our storytelling is a major part of the potential of our nation. Because when people see who is on that screen whether it’s a “Little Cuban Girl”, young, old and everywhere in between that looks at that protagonist can see themselves in them and say I can be a hero too.

A return trip to Cuba after growing up in the United States was like stepping back into the memories of my family and ancestors. This stirred something deep within me. Walking through the streets they once called home, I was overwhelmed by the memories and values they passed down to me. The stories of resilience, sacrifice, and the pursuit of a better life.

When I saw the children playing in those same streets was what truly struck me, seeing them, full of innocence and wonder.

At that moment, my heart ached. I realized that no matter where we come from, we all share the same hopes and dreams. All we need is a nurturing environment and the will to chase our potential.

That realization inspired me to share these untold stories not just for me, but for my family, for Cuba, for every child and dreamer who dares to dream against the odds.