Roberto Sanchez to Receive Excellence in Filmmaking Award at 15th Annual GALIFF

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 September 30, 2026, at Atlanta's Fox Theatre during Hispanic Heritage Month.

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), followed by performances in Apple TV+ series Palm Royale and Cape Fear. He has also appeared in Running Point (Netflix), Dexter: Original Sin (Showtime/Paramount+), and BMF (Starz), among others.

Beyond acting, Sanchez has expanded into writing, directing, and producing, with his upcoming romantic drama The Café exploring themes of love and regret. His work has earned critical acclaim, including an Imagen Award nomination for Lake Los Angeles (2014).

Dr. Jose Marquez, CEO and Founder of GALFA, praised Sanchez for his resilience and for leveraging his platform to mentor emerging talent and challenge industry norms. Yvette Moise, President & Co-Founder, highlighted Sanchez's role in creating pathways for Latino and Afro-Latino creators behind the camera.

Sanchez expressed humility at 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.' He dedicated the award to storytellers working to ensure Latino voices are heard.

The 15th annual festival, themed as a Quinceañera celebration, will run for five days and also commemorate 150 Years of Mexican Filmmaking. The opening gala at the Fox Theatre will be followed by a retrospective of Sanchez's career. Sponsors include the Fox Theatre, Olé Mexican Foods, and Fulton Films.

For more information, visit galiff.org.