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 awards ceremony is scheduled for September 30, 2026, at Atlanta's Fox Theatre, part of Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations.
Sanchez, born in Cuba and raised in Miami, served 11 years in the U.S. Navy before breaking into Hollywood. His career spans over 150 film and television credits, including a breakout role in John Singleton's "2 Fast 2 Furious" and appearances in Apple TV+'s "Palm Royale" and the upcoming "Cape Fear." As a filmmaker, he writes, directs, and produces personal stories, such as his upcoming romantic drama "The Café."
GALFA CEO Dr. Jose Marquez 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, Sanchez said, "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."
Sanchez's recent television roles include "Cape Fear" (Apple), "Palm Royale" (Apple TV+), "Running Point" (Netflix), "Dexter: Original Sin" (Showtime/Paramount+), "BMF" (Starz), and guest roles on "Queen of the South" and "The Resident." His film credits also include "Lake Los Angeles," which earned him an Imagen Award nomination.
The 15th GALIFF will feature five days of cinema and panels, with the opening gala also commemorating 150 Years of Mexican Filmmaking. Sponsors include the Fox Theatre, Olé Mexican Foods, Fulton Films, and others. Tickets and media credentials are available at galiff.org.
