Juan Escobedo

Founder & Board president

Juan Escobedo is a filmmaker and photographer who believes art, film and photography can be used as a medium  for youth  and families to inspire a healthier life in their communities.

Jeffery Lee Ranson

BOARD MEMBER

Jeff Lee Ranson, a Southern California native, is an actor known for his roles in shows like Cold Case, Chuck, and Greek. In 2018, he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Television, Film, and Media Studies with a focus on writing from California State University, Los Angeles.

Jeff has a creative flair for storytelling and a passion for screenwriting, with experience writing feature films and television shows. Currently, he is in pre-production on a TV show called Mari & Mary with Juan Escobedo. He is also producing the documentary Las Promotoras Against Violence, directed by Juan Escobedo. Additionally, Jeff serves on the board of The East LA Society of Film and Arts (TELASOFA), contributing to its production initiatives.

Alejandro Patiño

HONORARY BOARD MEMBER

Alejandro Patiño is an actor and community activist. He believes in TELASOFA’s mission and has assisted with The East LA Film Festival since 2013. He mentors TELASOFA youth who are interested in acting and film. Alejandro is believes in acting and film as a medium to foster confidence in youth. He mentors and speaks at our local schools is always available to assist youth.

Azul DelGrasso

TELASOFA’S TECHNICAL ASSISTANT IN HEALTHCARE

Azul DelGrasso (He/Him/His), MA, has worked in the STD/HIV field for over 25 years and is a Senior Learning and Development Specialist for the Denver Prevention Training Center. Azul is part of a team responsible for the program coordination of the Denver PTC's Capacity Building Assistance (CBA) Program to expand high-impact HIV prevention activities within healthcare organizations. Mr. DelGrasso led the first rapid HIV testing program and training in Mexico, and is one of the only two testing counselors who has tested high risk individuals in all 48 states of the continental US as part of the Magic Johnson HIV Testing Tour in 2010. Azul is a Denver native and has a Master's Degree in Latin American Studies from California State University Los Angeles.

Jay R. Martinez

FINANCE CONSULTANT

Jay R. Martinez is a CPA and holds a Masters Degree in accounting from Cal State, Northridge and has consulted TELASOFA since 2013.

Alireza (Ali) Amirhosseini

Film Festival Juror

With over five years of dedicated experience in the film industry, Ali is a seasoned professional specializing in Dailies and Digital Intermediate Color within the realm of post-production. His portfolio includes significant contributions to projects such as "Babylon," "Fats X," and acclaimed TV shows like "The Morning Show" and "Winning Time."