Why We Built the MíraLA Film Festival (And What’s Next)

In 2022, when I first started the journey with the MíraLA Film Festival, it wasn’t just about creating another event – it was about building a space where women’s stories matter and could be seen, heard, and celebrated. I’ve always believed in the power of film to create change, to connect people, and to open doors for underrepresented voices. That’s why we founded MíraLA – to make sure those doors stay open and to create opportunities for women of color filmmakers who deserve a platform.

This year, I’m more excited than ever. We’ve been growing, evolving, and pushing boundaries, and 2025 is shaping up to be our biggest, boldest year yet. We’re bringing together an incredible lineup of films, speakers, and industry professionals, all while making sure the festival remains a space where creators feel valued and supported. I’m especially looking forward to our first industry mixer where I will interview Debby Wolfe, Marta Mendez Cross, Valeria Maldonado, and Selina Ringel who we just added and will be signing her book!

More than anything, I want this festival to remind us why we tell stories in the first place – to inspire, to challenge, and to uplift. I can’t wait to share everything we’ve been working on with all of you. Read more below for details on this weekend’s festival and how you can join us.

The highly anticipated MíraLA Film Festival returns for its third annual event on Saturday, March 22, 2025, uniting an inspiring community of women of color in film for a powerful celebration of storytelling, culture, and representation.

Founded to amplify underrepresented voices in the entertainment industry, the MíraLA Film Festival serves as a dynamic platform for both emerging and established filmmakers to showcase their work, build meaningful connections, and engage in industry-shaping conversations. This year’s festival features an exciting lineup of films, insightful panels, and exclusive networking events – all designed to highlight the richness and diversity of storytelling from women of color.

The festival kicks off with an invite-only Industry Mixer at Kimpton La Peer Hotel on March 21, bringing together 75 influential women in film – including directors, producers, and actors – for an evening of networking and a live Q&A with top industry professionals. The night will feature exclusive panels with cast and producers from Las Tres Sisters and Debby Wolfe, creator of Lopez vs. Lopez.

On March 22, the festival continues with a special Industry Panel featuring powerhouse women such as director and producer Andrea Saavedra and actress and producer Cinthya Carmona, sponsored by Con Sabor y Almar Productions, Shipwreck Cinema, Omnien, and Golden Railroad Films.

In an exciting expansion, Hitkor Studios will be live-streaming the festival, bringing the event to audiences worldwide and ensuring even greater accessibility for supporters of women in film. Additionally, the festival will extend beyond Los Angeles with a special watch party hosted in Austin, Mexico City, and Chicago.

This year’s festival is made possible through the support of incredible partners, including the Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce and local businesses such as Rock n Roll Café, Montecitos Coffee, and Cinecraft, among many others. Their dedication to fostering the arts and supporting women in entertainment is a testament to the strength of community-driven initiatives.

With the backing of these sponsors and partners, MíraLA Film Festival remains committed to paving the way for the next generation of women of color in film, providing the space, visibility, and opportunities they deserve.

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