GIOVANNA TORRES

Giovanna Torres is a cultural producer and arts leader based in Charlotte, North Carolina. She is the Founder and Executive Director of Cine Casual, a media-arts organization advancing Latin American cinema as a tool for cultural connection, civic dialogue, and community building. Since founding the organization in 2020, Giovanna has developed year-round, bilingual programming that includes curated screenings, public conversations, educational initiatives, professional development for artists, and the Charlotte Latino Film Festival, now entering its third edition.

Her practice centers on expanding access to the arts by bringing film beyond traditional venues and into neighborhoods through initiatives such as Cine en los Barrios, a free, family-friendly outdoor screening series. Through her leadership and prior work with the Arts & Science Council’s Culture Blocks program, Giovanna has played a key role in advancing Hispanic inclusion in Charlotte’s arts ecosystem—supporting Latinx artists, expanding culturally responsive programming, and strengthening pathways for community participation.

Recognized for its impact, intentionality, and commitment to building sustainable cultural infrastructure, her work continues to shape inclusive, community-rooted models for arts engagement across the U.S. South.