Meet Yolotzin Martinez Olea

We had the good fortune of connecting with Yolotzin Martinez Olea and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Yolotzin, what role has risk played in your life or career?
For me, risk is inseparable from the journey. As an undocumented filmmaker, risk is part of every step—from pursuing a career in an industry where there are few opportunities for people like me to choosing to create High Stakes, my first big project right out of college. I’ve always known that if I wanted to see my stories on screen, I’d have to build that path myself. I didn’t wait for the industry to hand me an opportunity because I knew that, as someone with my background, it wasn’t likely to happen. Taking this risk means telling stories I believe in and opening doors for those who’ll come after.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is deeply rooted in a passion for bringing underrepresented voices to the forefront and connecting people through stories about heritage, identity, and love. As an undocumented filmmaker, I’ve had to create my own opportunities in an industry that often overlooks people like me, and that’s become the fuel for my work. My current project, High Stakes, is my first major venture out of college. It’s an LGBTQ+ fantasy series led by women of color both in front of and behind the camera. This project is about culture, love, and identity, told through a supernatural lens, and I couldn’t be prouder of how it’s coming together.

The journey hasn’t been easy. Funding, resources, and representation were hard to come by, but resilience and a strong community helped me overcome those challenges. I’m incredibly grateful to be surrounded by a cast and crew who share this vision, and I’m growing as a creative every day because of them. Being early in my career, I’m excited to take risks, make mistakes, and learn from each experience. Each day spent with this talented group pushes me forward, and I’m beyond excited to grow alongside them.

At its heart, High Stakes is more than just a series; it’s a story of empowerment. Every moment, every character is built with purpose. It’s my hope that our work will celebrate our diversity and shared experiences, showing the world the power of authentic storytelling.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’m so grateful for the incredible people who have been part of High Stakes. First and foremost, I want to recognize the cast and crew who have poured their hearts and hard work into bringing this story to life. Their talent, passion, and dedication inspire me every day. Also, a huge thank you to the Undocumented Filmmakers Collective, whose support and resources have been invaluable in making this project possible. They have been unwavering in their encouragement and belief in the power of underrepresented voices. Without them and without the commitment of each person involved, High Stakes wouldn’t be what it is.

Website: https://linktr.ee/highstakes.series

Instagram: @highstakes.series

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Highstake.series

Image Credits
SOLO PORTRAIT CREDIT :MORGAN KHOE