Producer / Director

@monimusically

Moni Vargas is a three-time Emmy-nominated director, producer, and multidisciplinary artist with over two decades of experience in documentary and narrative storytelling. She co-founded Friends We Love in 2008 with her husband Michael Vargas as a platform to tell bold, art-driven stories that center culture and community. Her work has screened at international festivals, the United Nations, as well as cultural institutions such as the Brooklyn Museum and the Bronx Museum. She is the recipient of two prestigious National Journalism Awards and two Southern California Journalism Awards. Moni previously served as Program & Creative Director at Breakthrough U.S., a global nonprofit using media, art, and technology to advance gender equity and human rights. She has taught documentary filmmaking and developed a care-centered approach that shapes every project she leads. Her storytelling reflects a lasting commitment to equity, craft, and the power of representation.

Director / Director of Photography / Editor

@everydayhigher

Michael Vargas is an award-winning filmmaker, visual artist, and writer with over 25 years of experience across documentary, branded, and narrative work. He co-founded Friends We Love with his wife Moni Vargas in 2008—a Latine-led production company launched to champion creative expression and amplify community-driven stories. As a seasoned director, cinematographer, and editor, Michael has led countless productions from concept to final cut, with two of his most acclaimed projects earning back-to-back Emmy nominations through PBS’s Artbound series. His. documentary work has also received four National Press Club Awards, screened at notable film festivals, and reached millions of viewers across digital platforms. From global campaigns for brands like Apple, Nike, and GQ, to intimate artist profiles and cultural documentaries, Michael’s cinematic approach blends artistry with impact. He remains dedicated to elevating untold narratives and honoring the legacies of underrepresented communities with originality, depth, and purpose.

Founding Artistic Director of CASA 0101

Josefina López, Founding Artistic Director of CASA 0101, began her writing career at 17 and has produced over 80 impactful plays in the U.S., advocating for underrepresented communities. Her iconic work, "Real Women Have Curves," resonated with audiences and became a celebrated 2002 Sundance Award-winning film. López’s bold storytelling delves into identity, culture, and femininity, inspiring many. The Broadway adaptation of "Real Women Have Curves" champions body positivity, identity, and resilience, maintaining the original's essence while showcasing women's struggles and triumphs over cultural expectations. Its powerful melodies and vibrant choreography engage new audiences and promote the celebration of all women.

Executive Director of CASA 0101

Emmanuel Deleage, Executive Director of CASA 0101 Theater and Executive Producer of the film, said: “This year CASA 0101 Theater is celebrating our historic 25th Anniversary Season. To preserve this moment in time we are proud to announce that a documentary film is in process chronicling all we have accomplished serving the community of Boyle Heights in Los Angeles, CA over the last 25 years.

Development Director of Casa 0101

Mark Kraus began at Casa 0101 as the organization’s first full-time Administrator and led the technical and infrastructural overhaul for the organization when Casa 0101 opened it’s new home in 2011.  With the growth of the organization since then, he has transitioned into his current role as Development Director.