Meet David Leopold Gonzalez | Chief Contract and Grant Officer

We had the good fortune of connecting with David Leopold Gonzalez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi David Leopold, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The decision to start Femtasia Fest (formally Les Femmes Underground International Film Festival) with my partner was a fusion of both our passions for film and my background in research administration and contract management. It was shaped by a dual commitment: to the world of cinema and to the underrepresented communities in both film and the broader community that had contributed to my personal and professional growth.

Drawing from my experience in research administration and contract management, I recognized the value of structure, organization, and collaboration in any endeavor. I understood the importance of meticulous planning and effective resource management in bringing ideas to life. This background provided me with a unique perspective on establishing and running a business, ensuring that it would be both creatively fulfilling and operationally sound.

My passion for film led me to believe that cinematic art could be a powerful medium for change and empowerment. As a team, we were determined to make underground cinema accessible to a wider audience, understanding that these films often carried stories that were raw, diverse, and thought-provoking. Simultaneously, my research administration and contract management experience taught me how to navigate complex systems and establish partnerships. This knowledge was instrumental in collaborating with filmmakers and underrepresented communities to create a platform that resonated with their voices and experiences.

Creating a business that combined my expertise in research administration and contract management with my love for cinema felt like a natural progression. We saw the potential to create not just a space for enjoying films, but also a hub that could positively impact the community. By showcasing the work of underrepresented communities in film and integrating philanthropy, we envisioned a business that could give back to the very community that had shaped both our journeys.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Femtasia Fest (formally Les Femmes Underground International Film Festival), is comprised of predominately first-generation BIPOC volunteers and as a result we choose to shine a spotlight on underrepresented communities in cinema. Our mission has three core parts: empowering women, femme, and non-binary filmmakers in underground media, reshaping cinema to truly represent those marginalized communities, and creating opportunities through education, wellness fairs, and literacy initiatives.

What sets us apart is the space we’ve created – a safe haven not only for women, femme, and non-binary filmmakers, but also for those pushing the boundaries of style and form. We embrace independent and experimental creators who break stereotypes and provide fresh perspectives on both cinema and the world.

One of our most recent highlighted features which screened at the Aero Theatre in 2021, “Scarecrow in a Garden of Cucumbers” from 1972, is a prime example of our commitment to unearthing unique cinematic treasures. Our journey hasn’t been without challenges, but these hurdles have strengthened our determination. We’ve learned the importance of resilience and community support along the way especially during the pandemic.

LEFUFF’s brand and story underscore unity, creativity, and determination. We’re here to amplify voices, challenge norms, and make cinema more inclusive for everyone.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting the area for a week, I would make sure they have an unforgettable experience. Here’s a fun itinerary that highlights some of the places I find most interesting:

Coffee Joints: La Horchateria or Plum Cafe

Exploring Archival Cinema and Underground Gems:

Visit institutions like Whammy Analog, Secret Movie Club, New Beverly, and American Cinematheque for a dive into archival and underground cinema.

Head to Whammy Analog Microcinema on March 22-24, 2024 and catch the next Femtasia Fest!

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 a big shoutout to FEMTASIA FEST, previously known as Les Femmes Underground International Film Festival (LEFUFF). This amazing organization, which is BIPOC-operated, holds a special place in my heart. They’re an official 501c3 traveling non-profit that spotlights films created by women, femme, and non-binary experimental and independent filmmakers. Their programming, spanning genres like experimental, narrative, and documentary, explores themes including sexuality and more.

What truly sets FEMTASIA FEST apart is their commitment to community impact. They’re not just about the festival – they’re all about making a difference through art and education. From their innovative Books For Babes initiative, which brings feminist children’s books to underrepresented communities nationwide, to providing financial support for filmmakers seeking distribution and career growth, FEMTASIA FEST goes above and beyond.

It’s organizations like FEMTASIA FEST that remind us of the power of cinema and philanthropy combined. They’re enriching communities, supporting filmmakers, and fostering a more inclusive cinematic landscape. Keep up the fantastic work!

Website: https://www.lesfemmesinternational.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lesfemmesundergroundfilmarts/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/les-femmes-underground-international-film-festival/about/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LEFUFF_FIlm

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lesfemmesundergroundfilmfestival

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbeLYVig4qb8AeyPf4pRVDA

Other: Film Freeway: https://filmfreeway.com/LesFemmesUndergroundFilmFestival