By Reynaldo Mena:
Life has not been easy for Andres Prieto. Many years have passed before breaking into the film industry. Born in Irapuato, Mexico, but raised in Los Angeles, Prieto has been a pillar of support for young filmmakers and a strong believer that Latin talent must have their own voices.
“I am very enthusiastic and feel a lot of satisfaction seeing the faces of young Latinos when they come seeking support and trying to tell our story,” says Prieto, Senior Director, Lighting & Grip at Quixote by Sunset Studios. For him, it is crucial that Latinos play a fundamental role in telling their story, both behind and in front of the camera.
“His support has been immense for us; he is totally committed to the community,” says Juan Escobedo, the founder and director of The East LA Society of Film and Arts (TELASOFA), speaking about Prieto’s generosity.
“It’s a new hope; hopefully, I impact them. My wish is to help. When I come home and speak with my wife, I talk about the future of our community, how doing these things can bring benefits to our children and youth ,” Prieto adds.
Recently, he conducted workshops that attracted 250 young people, who will some day have a voice in Hollywood’s cinema and arts. “We aim to do more in 2024. I think about the future of my community. I feel it in my heart,” he says.
A proposal by Assemblyman Anthony Rendon seeks to promote art in Southeast Los Angeles with the construction of the SELA Cultural Arts Center, which could be a game-changer, providing a home base for arts, culture, education, and resources for the Latino community.
SELA Cultural Center, the next great mecca for the arts in Southeast Los Angeles
“I want to see a change; there are people who have turned their backs on me, turned their backs on the community, and it’s time to change things. I do it for my children, so they don’t live what I lived, “he adds. “It’s like a light at the end of the road. We need to tell our stories; Latinos need to do it, not others. Hopefully, more support will come. I always wondered, ‘How can I support? Our voice deserves to be heard. If I do nothing, our voice will not be heard,'” Prieto said.
For Escobedo, the construction of the Cultural Center is vital, a “game-changer” that needs support.
“We have to support each other; Latino representation in the film industry is minimal. Our youth needs spaces where we can share our experiences and teachings,” Prieto adds.
SIGN PETITION HERE: SELA Cultural Arts Center is a GAME changer!
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