Today we’d like to introduce you to Valente Aranda.
Hi Valente, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Known to my students as “Mr. V,” I am a Film Production graduate of San Diego State University who has dedicated my career to mentoring young creatives. I spent five years with Tower Talent, helping youth navigate the path to professional representation and opportunities in Los Angeles.
After seeing many young actors face discouraging, feedback-free auditions, I set out to build something different in San Diego. In this supportive space, kids can develop their skills, confidence, and voice through filmmaking. I have since helped guide students into major talent showcases and produced multiple fashion shows at the SD Kids Expo in Del Mar.
Driven by a passion for film and youth development, my mission is to inspire the next generation of storytellers—and one day, see his students credit their start to his program on screen.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
One of my biggest challenges has been marketing—getting the right families to discover the program in a crowded after-school programs space while staying true to what makes it unique. At the same time, running a hands-on film program means constantly balancing roles—teaching, producing, coordinating events, and often feeling like I need to be in multiple places at once.
Another ongoing challenge is giving students a high-quality filmmaking experience on a limited budget. Film can be expensive, and I’m always pushing to elevate production value while keeping the program accessible. That balance—between vision, resources, and impact—is something I’m continually learning to navigate.
We’ve been impressed with Children’s Film Academy LLC, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Children’s Film Academy LLC is a youth-focused film education program dedicated to teaching kids and teens the art of storytelling through filmmaking. We specialize in hands-on training in cinematography, directing, editing, and acting, giving students real-world experience both in front of and behind the camera.
What sets us apart is our focus on professional-level production in a supportive, age-appropriate environment. Our students don’t just learn theory—they create original films, collaborate as production teams, and build confidence through creative expression.
We are most proud of empowering young creators to develop their voices, think critically, and gain skills that extend beyond film into leadership, communication, and teamwork. Our brand is built on creativity, mentorship, and opportunity, and we aim to inspire the next generation of filmmakers by making high-quality film education accessible and engaging.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
People can work with us by enrolling in our programs or collaborating on youth film projects. You can support us by subscribing to our YouTube channel, CFA Studios, sponsoring an episode, or simply spreading the word to other families. Every bit of support helps us grow and create more opportunities for young filmmakers.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thechildrensfilmacademy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/childrensfilmacademy/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@cfastudios
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-childrens-film-academy-san-diego
- Other: https://vimeo.com/childrenfilmacademy
