Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Maria Mondragon. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Maria, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.

I think the biggest risk I’ve taken in my life—besides choosing to pursue a career in filmmaking (lol, still waiting to see how that turns out)—was coming out in a Catholic family and a deeply conservative social environment. At the time, it felt like the hardest thing in the world, almost impossible. But today, I couldn’t be more grateful that I did it.

Like anything meaningful in life, it was a process. And even though it was incredibly challenging, it’s the decision that’s brought me the most growth. Over time, my parents began to understand that my sexual orientation doesn’t take anything away from me. It doesn’t diminish my dreams or make my life harder. And I also had to go through my own journey of understanding—learning to empathize with their process instead of being angry at their initial lack of acceptance. I had to take a step back and recognize that they were raised very differently, and that it’s not easy to change deeply rooted beliefs overnight.

Socially, I was lucky to be surrounded by people who gave me nothing but love and courage, and that helped me connect with others in ways I never expected. Personally, it was a moment of liberation. It allowed me to finally understand who I am, what I want, and where I want to go—not just in terms of my sexuality, but in every part of my life. Accepting such a fundamental part of who you are opens the door to embracing so many other parts too. It frees you from all the expectations imposed by others about who you’re supposed to be.

Today, I’ve been in a relationship for almost five years, and I couldn’t be happier.

Maria, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My name is Maria Mondragón, I’m 28 years old, and I’m originally from Mexico City. I’m currently pursuing an MFA in Film Directing at the American Film Institute, because cinema is my passion—and the career I want to dedicate my life to.

Getting here hasn’t been a straight path. I originally studied Communications for my undergraduate degree, mainly out of fear—everyone around me said that pursuing filmmaking would be too difficult, too uncertain. But toward the end of my studies, I added a minor in film and quickly realized that this is where my heart truly is.

When I graduated, the pandemic hit, making it extremely difficult to break into the industry. So I started freelancing on advertising projects and slowly began building my career. Eventually, I was offered a position as a creative director at a production company called Lucid Films in Mexico City. That’s where I really grew—directing commercials, music videos, social media content, and ad campaigns. It taught me how to lead creative teams, collaborate effectively, and meet the expectations of major clients.

But over time, something felt like it was missing. I remembered that what I really wanted was to tell meaningful, impactful stories on the big screen—stories that inspire people and shape culture. So I went back to narrative content. I wrote, produced, and directed a short film, which I submitted to AFI as part of my application—and I was accepted.

Now I’m here, pursuing my dream, and happier than ever.

What I hope people take away from my work is a sense of honesty and heart. I’m deeply committed to telling human stories that reflect the complexities of who we are—stories that stay with you long after the credits roll.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

There are so many things I could talk about, but I think the most rewarding part of being an artist is the ability to move people emotionally. Seeing your work finished and watching how it impacts the way others feel or think is truly magical.

There’s also a deep sense of responsibility that comes with creating artistic and cultural work—knowing that it has the potential to influence culture and people’s perspectives. Ideally, for the better. That power is both humbling and thrilling.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

I think this question ties closely to the previous one. What drives me the most in my creative journey is the desire to share my own experiences, hoping they might resonate with at least one person out there.

Let me explain through something personal: I grew up in a social environment where there was “no one” who was openly gay. I had no example of a queer woman I could relate to—until I watched Blue Is the Warmest Color. That film showed me that what I was feeling existed, and that somewhere in the world, it was normal.

That’s exactly what I want to do with my work. My mission is to inspire people and help them feel seen—to remind them that whatever they’re going through, whatever they’re feeling, it’s valid. It exists. And they’re not alone.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.mariamondragon.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mariamondra/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariamondragong/