Maylen Calienes is an award-winning storyteller and the Founder and President of Latino Filmmakers Network (LFN). Beginning her career in theatre before transitioning to film, Calienes has worked across storytelling as an actor, writer, director, and producer, bringing a multidisciplinary perspective to both her creative work and industry advocacy.In 2015, she founded LFN at the Sundance Film Festival to connect, educate, and create opportunities for Latino filmmakers and underrepresented storytellers. Under her leadership, LFN has developed year-round educational programs, industry workshops, advocacy initiatives, and events at major film festivals and nationwide, while collaborating with leading entertainment organizations and industry partners.
Raised in Miami and based in Los Angeles, Calienes has been recognized for her contributions to filmmaking and advancing representation in entertainment, including recognition by the Imagen Awards. Her work is driven by a commitment to championing storytellers, expanding access, and creating meaningful pathways both in front of and behind the camera.