About Me

Born and raised in Brazil, I earned my MFA at Columbia University in New York City and now call Toronto home. Having worked across multiple countries—including the US, Brazil, Canada, Venezuela, and Argentina—my storytelling is impacted by diverse cultural perspectives. Turns out, a little perspective can shift the entire plot.

I'm perfectly happy writing solo, but very few things beat the magic of a writers' room in full flow. I've worn many hats—from Staff Writer to Head Writer—and I've also developed and sold original series for major players. Whether building something from scratch or joining mid-process, I'm all in—as long as the coffee's flowing. Lots of coffee.

I've tackled everything from musicals (Netflix), broad comedies (Netflix), and coming-of-age dramas (HBO), to medical thrillers (Prime Video). I love mixing genres to explore fresh storytelling possibilities. But I'm especially drawn to crafting nuanced, counterintuitive characters—often outsiders who never quite fit in. Maybe it's my past life as an actor, my current one as an immigrant, or simply my soft spot for misfits.

My indie films have screened at over 50 festivals worldwide, from Santa Barbara to Palm Springs Shortsfest. I especially enjoy directing non-professional actors—bringing out authentic performances that reflect my perspective as a director from the Global South, attuned to stories of inequality and disparity. Being on set keeps my storytelling sharp—and gives me a reason to stop wearing PJs to work every day.

I'm always drawn to new formats, new technologies, and innovation as a way to push stories forward. I currently lead a research project on the intersection of AI and storytelling through Connected Minds. I'm a Research Associate at Sensorium and a Fellow at CERLAC. I've also written an award-winning transmedia project recognized by Cannes Lions, Clio, and the One Club.

I'm currently the Area Head of Screenwriting at York University (Canada), where I teach both MFA and BFA film students. I've taught in Brazil and in the U.S. (Barnard College and Columbia University), always balancing practice and pedagogy. I also mentor emerging filmmakers through initiatives like BBIC, Canada's largest program for Black creators. That balance between industry and academia is what keeps my storytelling alive—on and off the page.

Yep, that's true—I acted professionally from childhood into my mid-20s, on TV, stage, and countless commercials. Thankfully, most footage is buried somewhere online. Acting profoundly shaped my understanding of drama, but these days, I happily stay behind the scenes.

I've been in the industry for almost two decades, but I still quietly believe I'll become a professional soccer player when I grow up. Just waiting on that call.