Coming back for its third year, the Georgia Latino Film Festival continues to showcase Latino talent in Georgia while educating and empowering the next generation of Latino storytellers. This year’s festival will take place in the heart of bustling Downtown Atlanta at the Georgia Pacific Conference Center on Peachtree Street and at Plaza Fiesta in Northeast Atlanta on Buford Highway.

Founded by Jose Marquez, the CEO of Latinos in Information Sciences and Technology, and Lance Robertson, CEO of the Black Latino Council, the festival was launched during Hispanic Heritage Month in 2012 and seeks to build awareness of both independent film and film as an art form. The festival generates educational opportunities for students and Georgia Latino filmmakers, all while creating opportunities for the community to experience high-quality Latino films.

The continuing success and expansion of the festival is evident. This year, submissions for the festival have come not only from all over the United States, but also from Mexico, Colombia, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, Cuba and the Dominican Republic. A hugely diverse background of attendees is also expected.

Beginning this Friday, October 17th, and spanning over the course of the weekend, the Georgia Latino Film Festival presents its attendees with the chance to participate in a multitude of events from film screenings and Q&A sessions with filmmakers to workshops and exclusive parities. The activities will kickoff with a special red carpet event featuring influential figures in journalism, blogging, marketing, technology, entertainment, networking and music.

Also included in the lineup will be special musical performances by Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Seich and Tito Puente Jr. with his Orchestra. Appearances from other A-list actors and actress are anticipated as well, so this event is definitely one to attend and look out for in the coming years. For more information, visit georgialatinofilmfestival.org.