Meet Our Esteemed Jury of Filmmakers | THE STORY TELLER UNIVERSE

Meet Our Esteemed Jury

Our jury comprises award-winning filmmakers, composers, and storytellers who celebrate bold voices in cinema with their artistry and expertise.

Celebrating Cinematic Excellence

Passionate Voices in Film

Each jury member brings unique talent and passion, dedicated to recognizing authentic storytelling and innovative cinema from around the globe.

Stefano Da Fre is an AFI award-winning Canadian film producer whose work explores social justice and human resilience. His acclaimed films include Stolen Dough and The Girl Who Cannot Speak, both recognized at major festivals such as Cannes, NBC’s Meet the Press Film Festival, and Oscar-qualifying circuits. Supported by a prestigious Russo Brothers grant, Stefano continues to amplify vital voices through fearless storytelling.

Nga Weng Chio is an award-winning music composer whose work blends emotion and innovation to elevate storytelling through sound. With a deep passion for crafting powerful scores, her compositions have been featured in acclaimed projects and international festivals. She brings her artistry and unique voice to the jury, championing the vital role of music in cinema.

Nga Weng Chio

Stefano Da Fre

Valeria Sweet

Valeria Sweet is an award-winning actress and filmmaker whose work bridges storytelling across cultures and languages. With performances and projects showcased at international film festivals, she is known for bringing depth, authenticity, and passion to every role. As a jury member, Valeria offers her artistic vision and global perspective to celebrate bold new voices in cinema.

Koka Singh Arora is a filmmaker and producer recognized for championing diverse stories and emerging voices in cinema. With projects spanning independent films and international collaborations, his work reflects a strong commitment to cultural representation and meaningful storytelling. As a jury member, he brings a sharp eye for impactful narratives and innovative filmmaking.

Chayan Sanchez is an award-winning director whose films explore themes of identity, resilience, and human connection. Her storytelling has resonated with audiences at international festivals, where she has been praised for blending emotional depth with bold cinematic vision. As part of the jury, she contributes her experience and passion for authentic, boundary-pushing cinema.

Katie Reyes is an accomplished film professional, festival director, and curator who has served on the jury of numerous international film festivals. With a deep passion for independent cinema and emerging talent, she has been instrumental in shaping platforms that celebrate diverse storytelling and creative excellence. Through her work, Katie continues to support filmmakers worldwide and elevate new voices in global cinema.

Chayan Sanchez

Koka Singh Arora

Katie Reyes

Flora Cheng is an international composer based in Los Angeles, California. A graduate of the University of California, Santa Barbara, she currently serves as President of the MTAC Lakewood-Cerritos Branch. Her work has been recognized globally, including a nomination at the Colombian Academy Awards (Macondo Awards) for SARA – La Fuerza Del Mar. Flora’s music has earned multiple honors, including Global Music Awards and Best Original Score and Song awards at several international film festivals. Her acclaimed album ICARUS and the track Solitary have been celebrated for their emotional depth and artistry.

Flora Cheng

Naosheen Ahmed

Naosheen Ahmed is an actress, writer, and producer based in Los Angeles, known for creating authentic, thought-provoking stories inspired by her multicultural upbringing between Saudi Arabia and India. She focuses on women-centered narratives that challenge stereotypes and explore emotional depth, bringing intellect, empathy, and bold storytelling to every project both on and off the screen.