Presente Media
Tell us about you and your work
¡Presente! Media is a collective led by Latinx filmmakers and journalists focused on social justice. Our co-founders are Kristal Sotomayor, Gabriela Watson-Burkett, and Melissa Beatriz. We produce solutions-based and investigative documentaries/stories rooted in social justice, collaborate with Latinx/POC communities, and provide support for emerging media makers.
What inspires you?
We are inspired to contribute to a more equitable and sustainable work landscape for Latinx and media makers of color. The work that inspires us includes Field of Vision, Colectivo Catalejo (Montevideo, Uruguay) and Nós, mulheres da Periferia (São Paulo, Brazil).
What does community mean to you?
To us community is the intersection of many identities in Philadelphia. It also means having the space to gather and express our cultural traditions.
Favorite film (A few favorites)
Kristal: Holy Mountain directed by Alejandro Jodorowsky
Gabriela: Free Angela and All Political Prisoners by Shola Lynch
Melissa: American Revolutionary: The Evolution of Grace Lee Boggs by Grace Lee
Favorite song (A few favorites)
Kristal: Anything by Bad Bunny
Gabriela: Anything from Pies descalzos album by Shakira or the album Miseducation of Lauryn Hill by Lauryn Hill.
Melissa: La Vida es un Carnaval by Celia Cruz, Pa’l Que Se Va by Alfredo Zitarrosa
Favorite place (A few favorites)
Kristal: Coffee shops!
Gabriela: Anywhere with friends, latin music and latin food:)
Melissa: La playa!