Fernando Barbosa is an award-winning documentary filmmaker, producer, actor, and entrepreneur with a remarkable career that began at the age of ten. His passion for storytelling has driven him to work on films that have represented Bolivia at the Academy Awards and earned numerous accolades across the globe. More importantly, his films have sparked positive change, addressing critical social issues and making a lasting impact on communities.

One of his most notable projects, the documentary Take Off, was inspired by his deep connection with street children in Bolivia—children who worked in local dumpsters and slept under bridges. Through this film, Fernando shed light on their struggles and raised awareness about the challenges they face.
 

In addition to his film work, Fernando is a dedicated advocate for human rights and social justice. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community and someone who has navigated his own mental health journey, he brings a unique and deeply personal perspective to his creative endeavors. His passion for making a difference extends beyond filmmaking; he is also the author of a children’s book and a collection of poetry. Fernando's voice has resonated on many platforms, including schools, universities, radio stations, TV shows, and a TEDx talk in Bolivia.
 

Fernando’s commitment to social impact through film is complemented by his strong academic background. He holds a degree in Economics and International Business from the John Molson School of Business at Concordia University, where he was recognized for his academic excellence and volunteer work. His leadership and dedication were further acknowledged when he was invited to speak at the World Bank in 2012, sharing his experiences working with at-risk youth in Bolivia.
 

Now residing in Toronto, Fernando continues to refine his craft at the Toronto Film School.