The Georgia Latino Film Alliance (GALFA) has announced that veteran actor, writer, director, and producer Roberto Sanchez will receive the prestigious Excellence in Filmmaking Award at the 15th Annual Georgia Latino International Film Festival (#GALIFF2026). The ceremony is scheduled for Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at Atlanta's iconic 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 United States Navy before transitioning to a career in entertainment. With over 150 film and television credits spanning a quarter-century, he has become one of the industry's most respected and versatile actors. His breakout role came in John Singleton's 2 Fast 2 Furious, and he has since appeared in acclaimed projects such as Apple TV+'s Palm Royale and Cape Fear.
Beyond acting, Sanchez has expanded into writing, directing, and producing, focusing on character-driven stories. His upcoming romantic drama The Café explores themes of love, timing, and regret. This recognition underscores his contributions both in front of and behind the camera.
“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 and gratitude for the honor. “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 work includes roles in Cape Fear (Apple), Palm Royale (Apple TV+), Running Point (Netflix), Dexter: Original Sin (Showtime/Paramount+), and BMF (Starz). His film credits also include the critically acclaimed Lake Los Angeles, which earned him an Imagen Award nomination for Best Actor.
The 15th annual GALIFF marks a Quinceañera milestone, offering five days of cinema, panels, and cultural events. The opening gala will also celebrate 150 Years of Mexican Filmmaking, followed by a VIP reception honoring Sanchez's career. Sponsors 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.
For more information, ticketing, and media credentials, visit galiff.org.
