Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ana Flavia Veiga. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Ana Flavia, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.
One of the most meaningful projects I’ve worked on so far has been Palmas, a documentary that confronts viewers with the haunting histories of the Kizh-Gabrieleño tribe, the evictions at Dodger Stadium, and the symbolic palm tree in Los Angeles. This triptych narrative unearths the buried voices of the city, and its themes resonated with me on a personal level. As someone from Brazil, the palm tree carries deep cultural significance for me, which made this project especially meaningful. Although I hadn’t previously produced a documentary of this scale, my amazing director, Aric Lopez, trusted me with the role and gave me the platform to grow. This experience allowed me to shape both my voice and style, not only as a professional but also as a creative.
As we dove deeper into production, the scale of our ambition and the challenges we faced became a defining part of the journey. Shooting in every corner of the Los Angeles area—including Beverly Hills, East Los Angeles, Lakewood, and Sylmar, among many others—even in Palm Springs—with nine different participants and mostly exterior locations was both an incredible challenge and a tremendous learning experience. We had to navigate all kinds of obstacles, from intense heat while carrying heavy equipment to large crowds, and even curious passersby who interrupted our shoots. It was a constant exercise in adaptability, as we went out each day not knowing exactly what each participant or location might bring, no matter how much we prepared. Every day was different. A pivotal moment came during our search to contact the Kizh-Gabrieleño people. After countless unsuccessful attempts, I refused to give up. I advocated for one final visit that ultimately led us to uncover the third act of the film. This breakthrough wasn’t just a turning point for the documentary—it was a test of persistence, one that taught me the power of trusting my instincts and the importance of pushing beyond conventional limits.
Throughout the process, I balanced a tight budget with complex permits and logistical demands, ensuring that we could shoot in iconic locations while keeping production on track. Managing a crew under these conditions required constant communication and a deep understanding of both creative and operational needs. By keeping morale high and fostering an environment of collaboration, we were able to push through every hurdle, transforming setbacks into learning opportunities. Every challenge reinforced the lesson that the essence of producing lies in maintaining a clear vision while embracing the unexpected. This experience elevated my ability to lead, ensuring I’m always prepared to deliver ambitious projects, no matter the obstacles.
What made this project truly life-changing, though, was the sense of community we built along the way. From the very beginning, I knew that Palmas was about more than just making a film—it was about amplifying voices that are often overlooked and telling stories that matter. The team we gathered and the people we interviewed weren’t just participants in the documentary; they became a vital part of the film’s soul. To know that we were capturing their real-life experiences—stories of displacement, resilience, and culture—was deeply humbling.
As a producer, this meant navigating not just the technical and logistical challenges of filmmaking, but also fostering trust and respect within these communities. It wasn’t just about making a movie; it was about creating something that could spark meaningful conversations and provoke thought about issues still so relevant today. The impact we aimed for wasn’t just to entertain, but to educate, uplift, and inspire change. Looking back, it’s not just the technical skills or the lessons learned in budget management that stand out—it’s the profound sense of purpose I felt in creating something that could leave a lasting mark on both the community and the audience. This experience has forever shaped my approach to filmmaking, reinforcing my belief in the power of storytelling to move hearts, open minds, and ultimately spark a difference.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I’m a creative producer working across diverse mediums and genres, specializing in developing bold, globally connected stories that push creative boundaries. With a background in both studio and independent filmmaking, I have experience shaping projects from inception to completion, collaborating with filmmakers to bring their visions to life in innovative and impactful ways. I’ve been an avid reader for as long as I can remember, and I’ve always loved the feeling of getting so lost in a story that I can’t put it down. That’s exactly what I aim to create—media that pulls audiences in so completely they can’t hit pause. Limitations and unpredictability can be scary, but honestly, that’s where I shine. I’m always ready to adapt, pivot, and come up with multiple plans to make things work. My team members even joke that I can turn water into wine.
Originally from a small city in Brazil, my journey into the world of film began at 14, fueled by curiosity and a desire to explore beyond my surroundings. Growing up in a household where critical thinking and open communication were limited, I found solace in cinema, a space where I could express ideas, emotions, and perspectives that otherwise felt unreachable. Since then, filmmaking has shaped every major decision in my life, leading me to USC’s School of Cinematic Arts and a career dedicated to developing compelling, globally connected stories.
As a creative development producer, I specialize in crafting thought-provoking, multicultural, genre-driven films that challenge societal norms and uplift communities. My work focuses on bringing underrepresented voices, untold stories, and complex dilemmas to the forefront while ensuring that diverse perspectives are not only heard but celebrated. I love when someone asks me a question I don’t know the answer to or one that makes me realize I still have more to understand—about the topic, my own beliefs, or the world around me. Those are the kinds of projects I jump into. The ones that I know will push me, challenge my ways of thinking, and evolve me in ways I didn’t see coming. I thrive in the creative process of bringing stories to life, from initial development through distribution, always striving to support directors in achieving not just their vision but their dreams. What sets me apart is my ability to balance creative ambition with strategic problem-solving. Filmmaking is full of obstacles such as budget constraints, logistical challenges, and ever-changing industry dynamics, but I see those as opportunities for innovation. I believe that with the right approach, creativity can thrive in any environment.
I also love the interdisciplinary nature of storytelling—layering different art forms into my work, and embracing collaborations that push the boundaries of genre and format. Some of the most meaningful moments in my career have come from exchanging ideas with artists from completely different disciplines and watching how those perspectives reshape and elevate a story. That kind of collaboration fuels me because, at its core, storytelling is about connection, about bridging worlds, experiences, and emotions in ways that resonate across different backgrounds, perspectives, and identities. Ultimately, my mission as a producer is to develop stories that resonate deeply, challenge perspectives, and create a lasting cultural impact. I want my work to inspire others to see the world differently, spark curiosity, and believe in the power of storytelling as a force for change.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
One of the most rewarding parts of being a creative producer is when audiences tell me that my film deeply resonated with them, when it sparked something profound within them, opened a new way of thinking, or felt so relatable that they realized they weren’t alone in their experiences. It brings me immense joy when, after a screening, someone approaches me wanting to have an in-depth conversation that unfolds into unexpected nuances, making even me reflect on aspects of my own work that I hadn’t consciously considered. It always mesmerizes me how alive cinema is, how each viewer brings their own interpretation, making the experience unique and ever-evolving.
Another deeply fulfilling moment is hearing team members say they don’t want to leave set or that they wish post-production could last forever. Of course, we always respect wrap times and deadlines, but knowing that the journey itself has been meaningful and that we’ve created an environment where people genuinely enjoy being part of the process means the world to me. Filmmaking is intense, but I always strive to make it an experience where the team feels like a family, excited to collaborate and create together.
Equally gratifying is when directors tell me that not only has their vision come alive, but their dreams have as well. Knowing that we didn’t just meet expectations but surpassed them is the greatest honor. Their trust means everything to me, and I make it my mission to be as resourceful and inventive as possible, no matter the challenges or limitations, to bring their ideas to life in ways they never imagined.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
At the core of my creative journey is a mission to democratize access to both the making and viewing of films while uplifting Latine voices and communities. Coming from a small city in Brazil, I have seen firsthand how access to storytelling, whether as a creator or an audience member, is often shaped by privilege. Film changed my life by offering an escape, a voice, and a way to express my thoughts beyond the limitations of my surroundings. Now, I want to ensure that others, regardless of background or resources, have the same opportunity to share their stories and see themselves reflected on screen.
To me, storytelling is one of the most powerful tools for empathy and transformation. Films have the ability to shape cultural narratives, challenge dominant perspectives, and foster a sense of belonging. Yet too often, the same voices are amplified while others remain unheard. That is why I am passionate about breaking down the barriers—economic, geographic, and systemic—that limit who gets to create and whose stories are told. Whether it is advocating for more inclusive industry practices, supporting emerging talent from underrepresented backgrounds, or helping shape narratives that reflect a broader spectrum of human experience, I want my work to actively contribute to expanding access and opportunity. Education has truly changed my life. It has opened doors I never thought possible, helped me turn my dreams into reality, and introduced me to incredible friends along the way. One of my biggest dreams is to support and mentor young people, making it easier for them to learn about filmmaking and get a camera in their hands, especially those who might not otherwise have the chance.
I am particularly drawn to crafting thought-provoking, multicultural, and globally connected stories that push boundaries and spark deeper conversations. By bringing diverse perspectives to the forefront, I hope to contribute to a cinematic landscape where more people feel seen, understood, and empowered. What I love the most about the career path I chose is that we all work in teams, and this sense of community is a constant reminder that we don’t do anything or get anywhere alone. As I continue growing in this industry, my commitment remains unwavering. I want to make filmmaking and its community more united and accessible, champion authentic voices, and help create a world where the power of storytelling belongs to everyone.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.anaflaviaveiga.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anaflaviabresciani/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anaflaviaveiga/
Image Credits
Liam Hoole