Meet Joana Gomez | Film Producer & Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Joana Gomez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Joana, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I decided to pursue a creative career because I want to make a difference. Films have always comforted me as a child, and still today, many create memories with loved ones that we keep forever. Coming from a family of immigrants, a creative career wasn’t in mind. My family wanted me to become a Lawyer or doctor because that was the American dream. Early on, I found my passion in film because it helped me understand the American culture better and kept me company. Movies can help you understand certain emotions, make you feel understood, and overall create an impact. I want to be a part of that impact where I help create movies that make a difference.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a Film Producer and Director. I finished working on a documentary about the reintroduction of the Mexican Wolves a couple months back that I am really proud of. I had the Opportunity to work with an amazing crew and my teacher who was an amazing mentor through the entire process. This was probably my favorite project because it challenged me in so many ways as a creative and I learned a lot about myself in the process. I learned how to deal with problems better and how to stand up for myself more and my voice especially as a woman filmmaker. I couldn’t overcome those challenges without the support I had and I think it’s very important to have a strong support system in general because there will be times when you have to face certain challenges and need a strong group of people to lean on.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
The first place I would take my friend to is The Buffalo Restaurant & Bar. They have the best Bison burgers I’ve ever had. It’s also in Idaho springs so we can go to the hot springs or caves and relax after having a big meal. Next day I would take my friend to Jelly, which is my favorite breakfast/brunch place because of the amazing food they offer! Go to the art museum or museum of Nature and Science and maybe have some drinks at the Welton Room because their cocktails are out of this world! I would also take my friend up to the mountains, definitely to Maroon Bells in Aspen because that view is so breathtaking. Go on fun hikes and end the trip with the strawberry hot springs because who wouldn’t want to soak in a nice hot spring while looking at the mountains?

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to give my family a shoutout for being so supportive of my decision to pursue my career. Shoutout to my boyfriend, who has been a mentor, friend, and overall encouraging. My friends who support me endlessly, and my teachers who have taught me everything I know.