The Georgia Latino Film Alliance (GALFA) has 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 ceremony will take place on September 30, 2026, at Atlanta's Fox Theatre, as part of Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations.
Sanchez, born in Cuba and raised in Miami, served 11 years in the United States Navy before transitioning to Hollywood. With over 150 film and television credits in a 25-year career, he is known for his breakout role in John Singleton's "2 Fast 2 Furious" and recent performances in Apple TV+'s "Palm Royale" and "Cape Fear." His work extends beyond acting; he writes, directs, and produces personal stories, including the upcoming romantic drama "The Café."
"Roberto Sanchez embodies the undeniable power of resilience and self-determination," said Dr. Jose Marquez, CEO and Founder of GALFA. "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."
Sanchez expressed humility upon receiving the honor, stating, "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 festival's 15th anniversary, dubbed a Quinceañera celebration, will feature 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.
Sponsors and partners for GALIFF 2026 include the Fox Theatre, Olé Mexican Foods, Fulton Films, VensureHR, 222Creative, Women in Film and Television Atlanta (WIFTA), Georgia Films, and the DeKalb Entertainment Commission. More information and ticketing are available at galiff.org.
GALFA is an Afro-Latino curated nonprofit dedicated to developing and promoting Latino culture in media, offering workforce training and youth initiatives to connect creatives to Georgia's entertainment economy.
