ATLANTA — The Georgia Latino Film Alliance (GALFA) announced that veteran actor, writer, director, and producer Roberto Sanchez will receive the Excellence in Filmmaking Award at the 15th Annual Georgia Latino International Film Festival (#GALIFF2026). The award ceremony will take place on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at Atlanta's Fox Theatre, as part of the city's Hispanic Heritage Month celebration.
Sanchez, born in Cuba and raised in Miami, served 11 years in the U.S. Navy before building a career with over 150 film and television credits. His breakout role came in John Singleton's "2 Fast 2 Furious" (2003), and he has since appeared in notable projects including Apple TV+'s "Palm Royale," "Cape Fear," Netflix's "Running Point," and Showtime's "Dexter: Original Sin." His recent television work includes roles in "BMF," "Queen of the South," and "The Resident."
Beyond acting, Sanchez writes, directs, and produces personal stories, such as his upcoming romantic drama "The Café," which explores love, timing, and regret. Dr. Jose Marquez, CEO and Founder of GALFA, said, "Roberto Sanchez embodies the undeniable power of resilience and self-determination. He didn't wait for permission to build a remarkable 25-year legacy. Today, he is leveraging his platform to dismantle systemic barriers, mentor emerging talent, and redefine how Latino stories are told and valued globally."
Yvette Moise, President & Co-Founder of GALFA, added, "Roberto represents the living heartbeat of our movement. At GALFA, our declaration is 'Our Voices. Our Stories. Our Time,' and no one commands that truth quite like Roberto. He is not merely an exceptional talent; he is an industry force actively engineering career pathways for Latino and Afro-Latino creators behind the camera."
In response to the honor, Sanchez stated, "Longevity in Hollywood isn't an accident; it is built on discipline, quiet preparation, and creating the doors you wish were open when you started. To be recognized by the Georgia Latino Film Alliance at the historic Fox Theatre is deeply humbling. I share this honor with every storyteller working every single day to ensure our voices cannot be ignored."
The 15th Annual GALIFF marks a Quinceañera anniversary, offering five days of films, panels, and cultural events. The opening gala will also commemorate 150 Years of Mexican Filmmaking, followed by a VIP reception honoring Sanchez's career. GALIFF 2026 sponsors include The Fox Theatre, Olé Mexican Foods, Fulton Films, VensureHR, 222Creative, Women in Film and Television Atlanta, Georgia Films, and the DeKalb Entertainment Commission.
Sanchez's recognition underscores the importance of sustained careers in an industry often focused on fleeting fame. His work both in front of and behind the camera contributes to broader representation and mentorship, impacting Latino and Afro-Latino communities in entertainment. The award highlights GALFA's mission to develop and promote Latino culture in film, providing a platform for diverse voices. For more information on tickets and sponsorship, visit https://galiff.org.
