cultivating underserved filmmakers and storytellers in Minnesota.
We are rooted in the values of solidarity, community, and care.
Through financial support, community organizing, and mentorship, our programs support filmmakers and their communities to engage in a transformative and healing film process that fosters deep connections, skill development, and meaningful relationships.
The visionary fellows in our programs are guided to create groundbreaking narrative short films and scripts. Their projects create ripple effects in our communities and cultures.
Our programs support and collaborate with emerging, aspiring, and established filmmakers, helping to launch and sustain long-term creative careers and practices in film. We believe storytelling is an ancestral tool for preservation and healing.
Whether it is on a film set or organizing an event, our priority is for participants and collaborators to feel safe, seen, nourished, connected with each other and their own selves.
Mamá Papaya is proud to co-present Cinefilmu Film Festival.
MAMÁ PAPAYA CO-DIRECTORS
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Tahiel Jimenez Medina
Nicole Donoso Sanchez
Ryan Stopera
Nicole Donoso Sanchez
Ryan Stopera
Mary Anne Quiroz
Reyna Rios-Starr
Mamá Papaya honors my migrant mama’s creative spirit who for most of her did not have access to resources for expression. Our organization recognizes the need for everyone to receive the skills, tools, and resources to feel powerful in their voice.
A chance to express their story and express their creative spirits with necessary tools, knowledge, and community.”
- Tahiel Jimenez Medina
Founder & Co-director of Mamá Papaya
Founder & Co-director of Mamá Papaya