Press Release: Mexican Filmmaker and Lakhesis Films Founder, Lorena R. Valencia, Wins NY Emmy Award for Best Public Service Announcement in Spanish
New York, New York. October 26, 2024.
New York, New York. November 3, 2024.
Lakhesis Films is proud to announce that founder Lorena R. Valencia has been awarded a New York Emmy Award for Best Public Service Announcement (PSA) in Spanish. This prestigious recognition honors her work on a groundbreaking PSA created for the National Alliance on Mental Illness of New York City (NAMI-NYC). The campaign, "Breaking the Silence," sheds light on the mental health challenges faced by Hispanic/Latino caregivers and aims to reduce stigma through culturally sensitive storytelling.
The PSA explores the struggles of a mother navigating her daughter’s mental health challenges while highlighting the importance of caregivers prioritizing their own well-being. By addressing the stigma surrounding mental health in Hispanic/Latino communities, the campaign offers hope and access to free, community-based resources through NAMI-NYC. The project reflects Valencia's commitment to empowering underrepresented voices and advancing mental health awareness.
Lorena Valencia expressed her gratitude for the recognition:
"Winning this Emmy is not just a personal achievement—it’s a win for the entire community. I’m honored to contribute to a message that fosters dialogue and understanding around mental health in the Hispanic/Latino community."
"Winning this Emmy is not just a personal achievement—it’s a win for the entire community. I’m honored to contribute to a message that fosters dialogue and understanding around mental health in the Hispanic/Latino community."
Funded by the New York State Office of Mental Health, the PSA has been a cornerstone of NAMI-NYC’s outreach efforts. The campaign has sparked meaningful conversations and increased openness to seeking mental health support, as evidenced by community discussions and pre-/post-surveys showing a reduction in stigma.
This Emmy win underscores the impact of collaborative storytelling in creating social change. Lakhesis Films remains dedicated to producing content that uplifts marginalized communities and addresses critical issues such as mental health, identity, and equity.For more information about the PSA and Lakhesis Films, visit lakhesisfilms.com or NAMI-NYC.
About Lorena R. Valencia
Lorena R. Valencia is an Emmy-winning Mexican writer-director, producer, and founder of Lakhesis Films, a New York-based production company focused on empowering BIPOC communities through storytelling. She holds an MFA in Film from the City College of New York and a BFA in Design and Visual Communication from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). Her work spans narrative and documentary filmmaking, addressing themes of identity, reproductive rights, and power dynamics. Valencia's films have been recognized at prestigious international festivals including the Morelia Film Festival, the Atlanta Film Festival, the New York Latino Film Festival, and the Hola Mexico Film Festival. She is currently directing the documentary short "Meyolotl" and developing her debut feature film "Mayahuel," which was selected for the 2024 Cine Qua Non Lab's Storylines workshop.
About Lakhesis Films
Lakhesis Films is a New York-based production company specializing in high-quality audiovisual content for nonprofit organizations and the production of independent films. The company creates impactful projects, including public service announcements, fundraising videos, and testimonials. Committed to representing and empowering BIPOC communities, Lakhesis Films uses narrative and documentary storytelling to deliver compelling, socially conscious content that inspires change and amplifies diverse voices.
About NAMI-NYC
The National Alliance on Mental Illness of New York City provides free support, education, and advocacy to individuals and families affected by mental illness.
For inquiries, interviews, or more information, please contact:
Lorena R. Valencia
Email: contact@lakhesisfilms.com , itslorevalencia@gmail.com
Email: contact@lakhesisfilms.com , itslorevalencia@gmail.com