Joel Puma

Storytelling is a form of rebellion against the forces that aim to suppress and oppress.

An Ecuadorian American filmmaker and storyteller from Queens, New York, Joel has directed and edited three short documentaries, diving headfirst into filmmaking with passion and determination. These projects sparked an instant love for the creative process and the power of visual storytelling. As the son of immigrant parents, Joel is deeply connected to communities with shared experiences, and his work reflects a commitment to amplifying their voices. He sees storytelling as a way to honor the community that shaped him, not just through his own art but by helping others share their narratives.

Joel believes every story matters, especially those that might otherwise go unheard, and he is dedicated to creating platforms for these voices through film and storytelling.