Where Passion Becomes a Pathway
Meet the creators building careers—and community—beyond the classroom.
Alumni profiles
Saulo Castillo
cohort: Fall 2025
Discipline: Videography (ex. event coverage, wedding), Documentary Filmmaking, Social Media Content Creation
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Saulo Castillo is a Providence-based creative producer, development professional, and community arts builder who works at AS220 while also co-leading The Park Studios PVD, a platform supporting BIPOC artists through collaboration, professional development, and culturally rooted programming. He creates and leads educational initiatives for young adults, with a focus on practical skill-building, grant writing, and sustainable creative careers, and he’s also an emerging videographer and editor documenting artists, events, and community stories. As the front-person of The Park Band, Saulo helps shape a sound grounded in hip-hop and neo-soul while expanding into jazz and other Afro-diasporic influences, connecting performance, storytelling, and systems-building to help artists thrive on and off the stage.
Mariah Bueno
cohort: Summer 2025
Discipline: Social Media Content Creation
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Hi, I’m Mariah! Providence, Rhode Island, is my hometown, and I’m passionate about editorial photography, fashion, and filmmaking. I create cinematic scenes set to music, drawing inspiration from music videos. Exploring creative directing and short film direction is my goal, where I can bring ideas to life and make others feel empowered.
Ethan Famiano
cohort: Spring 2024
Discipline: Videography (ex. event coverage, wedding), Narrative Filmmaking, Documentary Filmmaking, Social Media Content Creation, On-Set Production Assist (ex. PA, Grip, etc.)
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Hi, I’m Ethan. I work in the video industry as a shooter and filmmaker based in New England. Over the past 2 years, I’ve worked extensively as an editor and in the G&E department on sets across the region, which has given me a deep, practical understanding of how productions are built from the ground up. That on-set experience directly informs how I shoot, light, and execute projects for my own clients. I take pride in knowing every step of the video-making process from pre-production through post and bringing that full-picture mindset to every project I touch.
Ginny Deaza
cohort: Fall 2024
Discipline: Social Media Content Creation
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I’m a Rhode Island based content creator, influencer and producer with a passion for storytelling, aesthetics, and building genuine community online. I started by creating lifestyle content and co hosting my podcast Two Many Opinions, where I focus on real conversations and high quality visuals and audio. Over time, I’ve grown into the strategy and production side of social media, working closely with brands while keeping everything rooted in authenticity, intentional storytelling, and content that feels real and relatable.
Tyler Palmer
cohort: Spring 2025
Discipline: Videography (ex. event coverage, wedding), Narrative Filmmaking, Documentary Filmmaking, Social Media Content Creation, On-Set Production Assist (ex. PA, Grip, etc.), Photography
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Tyler Palmer is a photographer, videographer and electronic musician based in Providence, RI.
“LegacyCollective has helped me better envision my future and career as a music artist and is currently helping me change and improve the lives of others around me as well. Wether it be from opportunities, connections, and even a new family/community to be apart of! I am forever humbled and grateful for what the leaders at legacy collective RI have created and given and hope to see an even brighter and greater future for them.”
Carlos Cruz
cohort: Spring 2025
Discipline: Videography (ex. event coverage, wedding), Narrative Filmmaking, Documentary Filmmaking, Social Media Content Creation, Music Videos
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I’m Carlos Cruz, a videographer, musician, DJ and all around creative based in Providence, Rhode Island. I make various types of work spanning from documentaries, music videos, event coverage and more.
John Balleste
cohort: Fall 2025
Discipline: Videography (ex. event coverage, wedding), Social Media Content Creation, On-Set Production Assist (ex. PA, Grip, etc.), Podcast
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"Jmack" is a Providence based journalist, podcaster and videographer known for exploring personal stories and creative journeys through his show, The Jmack Experience Podcast. As a multimedia creator, he uses interviews, photography and video to spark meaningful conversations and inspire his audience. He enjoys documenting the growth of musicians, Actors, entrepreneurs, and people from all walks of life .
Kendall Johnson
cohort: Fall 2025
Discipline: Videography (ex. event coverage, wedding), Narrative Filmmaking, Documentary Filmmaking, Social Media Content Creation
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I, Kendall Johnson, am a Rhode Island–based entrepreneur and videographer dedicated to amplifying authentic community voices through powerful storytelling. With a strong passion for interviews and documentary filmmaking, I am focuses on capturing real stories that reflect the resilience, culture, and complexity of everyday people—especially within underserved and inner-city communities. I am a recent graduate of Legacy Collective, a nonprofit film school committed to developing emerging filmmakers, I have spent the past several months sharpening my craft and deepening my commitment to visual storytelling. I am excited to fully step into the field and continuously building meaningful, community-centered work that informs, inspires, and preserves local narratives of the people.
Reynaldo Perez
cohort: Summer 2025
Discipline: Social Media Content Creation, Sports and Real Estate
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Social Media Sports content and Real Estate videography.
Mae Zhang McCauley
cohort: Fall 2025
Discipline: Narrative Filmmaking, Documentary Filmmaking, Social Media Content Creation, Commercial
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Mae is a mixed Chinese American actor, model, director, and filmmaker whose work is shaped by her experience on both sides of the camera. Drawing from her background as on-camera talent, she brings a collaborative directing style that pairs sharp creative vision with an actor’s intuition. Prior to transitioning into the commercial and film industry, Mae worked in book publishing as an editor on titles including Gaysians by Mike Curato and Dust Child by Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai. Her editorial background informs her storytelling, grounding her visual work in emotionally resonant narratives. She is currently in pre-production on her first short film. Find her at https://www.maezhangmccauley.com/
Because real stories deserve real storytellers.
Mia Minnucci
cohort: Fall 2025
Discipline: Narrative Filmmaking, Documentary Filmmaking, On-Set Production Assist (ex. PA, Grip, etc.)
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Mia is a New England-based Director of Photography
Jae Shark
cohort: Spring 2025
Discipline: Social Media Content Creation, Producer
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Hey hey! I'm Jae. A textured hair artist dedicated to building an authentic, inclusive community within the beauty space.
I primarily focus on social media marketing, blending my videography skills from Legacy, with a deep understanding of textured hair. My work centers on celebrating individuality & empowering others with textured hair to feel seen, understood, & cared for. I'm here to change the narrative & attract other dope souls through honesty, education, & genuine connection.
When I'm not behind the chair, you may find me at a local coffee shop, vibing to a curated DJ set, & learning more about hair science & chemistry.
Iliana Olea
cohort: Fall 2024
Discipline: Social Media Content Creation
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With a background in project management, client experience, and corporate infrastructure I bring a strategic approach to executing every project I work. I bring structure and frame to deliver compelling and engaging content. I am a creative at heart and I am my happiest when I am creating because as Picasso once said “art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.”
Giselle De La Nuez
cohort: Spring 2025
Discipline: Videography (ex. event coverage, wedding), Social Media Content Creation, On-Set Production Assist (ex. PA, Grip, etc.)
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A Providence-born creative working throughout New England, blending hospitality, media, and community events. With a love for personal style, curated experiences, and storytelling, and a background in bartending, social media, event production, and freelance photo/video, my work centers connection, culture, and bringing people together.
Justin 'JuJu' DeCosta
cohort: Spring 2024
Discipline: Social Media Content Creation, Event Hosting/Announcing
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Justin “JuJu” DeCosta is a Rhode Island–based event host, public address announcer, and social media content creator, specializing in live sports and community storytelling. A proud alumnus of Legacy Collective Rhode Island and a member of its first-ever cohort in Spring 2024, Justin has continued to grow his presence in media and live event production. He currently serves as the PA announcer for Rhode Island FC and an in-arena host for Providence College Athletics, bringing high-energy delivery and authentic crowd engagement to every event. Through digital media, he creates dynamic sports and community-driven content that highlights local stories, athletes, and organizations, blending live performance with purposeful storytelling. All while representing his city of Pawtucket (The Bucket) at the highest level.
“The program taught me how to break down my ideas more effectively and respect the hard work behind the creative process. It shifted my approach from simply writing down ideas to actively pursuing and executing them with more confidence and structure than I would’ve before. Also being in a room filled with diversity also allowed creative freedom to flow, as there was a shared understanding and acceptance that we all have different perspectives and upbringings. This made me realize that there isn’t a “right” or “wrong” answer when it comes to creativity, just different expressions.”
Anthony De Jesus
cohort: Summer 2025
Discipline: Social Media Content Creation
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I’m Anthony, a content creator and founder of DGT Studios, a bilingual media company specializing in interviews and branded social media campaigns. I create short-form video for Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, collaborating with businesses to tell real stories that connect with their audiences. My work blends cinematic visuals with spontaneous, honest conversations about culture, entrepreneurship, and community, helping brands turn their voice into engaging visual narratives that drive attention and action.
Foster Hazziez
cohort: Summer 2025
Discipline: Videography (ex. event coverage, wedding), Social Media Content Creation, On-Set Production Assist (ex. PA, Grip, etc.)
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Legacy has made me much more competent in film making and videography. As a result, I am a visual storyteller of all kinds — Meaning, whether you want storytelling in video format or visual art, it can be done. Additionally, the legacy team has attributed to much more than just skills (ie. camera operation, video editing and mandatory pre-work), they’ve given me community, opportunity and a way for me to express my creative endeavors without restriction!
As a traditional visual artist, legacy was outside of my comfort zone. However, after taking the course, it not only gave me confidence in other mediums, but gave me hope to branch out in creative ways I never thought was possible!
Dwayne Dodd
cohort: Summer 2024
Discipline: Videography (ex. event coverage, wedding), Social Media Content Creation, Car videography, Music Videography,
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Hi my name is Dwayne I Also go by the artist name Dee Munzz I do a wide variety of Social Media Content Creation with music Artist and Car enthusiasts Legacy Collective has opened a whole new world with the camera and I can express myself through it. Feel Free to visit my pages to Learn more and see my work!
Gwen Vargas
cohort: Spring 2024
Discipline: Videography (ex. event coverage, wedding), Documentary Filmmaking, Social Media Content Creation
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I’m a Providence-based videographer, visual storyteller, and licensed clinical social worker whose work lives at the intersection of mental health, social justice, and community voice. I produce documentary-style films, digital campaigns, and event recaps that amplify underrepresented stories through an aesthetic that blends cinematic warmth with artistic activism. Through film, I honor the humanity within stories and build spaces where people feel seen, dignified, and deeply known.
Rafael Medina
cohort: Fall 2025
Discipline: Narrative Filmmaking
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My name is Rafael Medina and I’m a street and event photographer from Providence, Rhode Island. I’m currently working towards being a narrative filmmaker so I can focus on making short films.
It's about more than cameras
Warith Balogun
cohort: Spring 2025
Discipline: Narrative Filmmaking
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I’m a filmmaker and visual storyteller working across short-form narrative, and branded content, with a focus on culture, identity, and process-driven storytelling. I have experience in directing, cinematography, and post-production. My work blends intentional cinematography with thoughtful direction to create grounded, emotionally resonant visuals. I’m interested in projects that sit at the intersection of story and design. I’m open to freelance projects, creative partnerships, and collaborative opportunities across film, media, and brand storytelling.
Miosoty Gonzalez Caines
cohort: Fall 2025
Discipline: Narrative Filmmaking, Social Media Content Creation, On-Set Production Assist (ex. PA, Grip, etc.)
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I am the comms lead at a non profit organization. I use film and media to amplify impact-driven work and bring organizations to life through compelling visual storytelling. I help produce content like impact stories and announcement videos, particularly within nonprofit and church spaces, and am developing my craft as an editor through social media content creation for my run club. I aspire to contribute to narrative filmmaking, working in both pre-production and post-production to help shape meaningful stories from concept to final cut.
Nancy Radwan
cohort: Spring 2025
Discipline: Videography (ex. event coverage, wedding), Narrative Filmmaking, On-Set Production Assist (ex. PA, Grip, etc.)
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I am an emerging director and videographer, and a member of one of the Legacy Collective RI cohorts, currently at the beginning of building my creative journey. While I haven’t produced many projects yet, I am deeply committed to learning every aspect of the craft and discovering my voice through visual storytelling. I am drawn to intimate, character-driven stories that explore emotional growth, evolving relationships, and the quiet moments that shape who we become. As a beginner, I approach filmmaking and videography with curiosity, honesty, and a strong desire to grow, using each opportunity as a step toward creating meaningful and authentic work.
Phoenix Kabali
cohort: Summer 2024
Discipline: Videography (ex. event coverage, wedding), Narrative Filmmaking, Documentary Filmmaking, Social Media Content Creation, On-Set Production Assist (ex. PA, Grip, etc.)
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My name is Craig “Phoenix” Bullock and I am more than a creative, I am a movement. A native son of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, I am cinematic griot, threading poetry, photography, and community through every frame and stanza. For over two decades, I have lifted my voice and vision in service of art, truth, and transformation. As a spoken word performer for 24 years, I have danced with language across continents. My verses shaped by love, pain, revolution, and rebirth, have echoed in American cities and European enclaves alike. I have authored three books, two of which have made their way into the hands of readers far and wide, inspiring new generations of dreamers, doers, and disruptors. But am not content to tell my story alone. I am driven by a sacred mission to illuminate others. Through my work with the youth, I nurture the next wave of artists and visionaries, curating platforms for emerging, underground, and unknown talents whose brilliance might otherwise go unseen. My camera lens finds beauty in the margins. My editorial eye uncovers stories that mainstream narratives leave behind. As CEO and founder of Phoenix Media Initiative, I use film and photography not only to capture moments, but to amplify movements.
From directing documentary films for institutions like RISD’s Project Open Door to chronicling the cultural heartbeat of Rhode Island’s biggest festivals, My body of work spans classrooms and city streets, policy retreats and poetic stages. Whether photographing legislators and grassroots leaders or guiding kindergartners through their first lessons in language and light, my mission remains clear: to make meaning, build bridges, and preserve the soul of the people. I births stories with integrity, dignity, and fire. In every community project, every published word, and every still or moving image, I remind you that art is not simply for admiration, it is for liberation. And where the world sees a lens, I see a portal.
Where the world sees a poem, I see a revolution. And wherever youth gather to dream, you’ll find me right there, lighting the match.
Jasmine Alves
cohort: Spring 2024
Discipline: Videography (ex. event coverage, wedding), Documentary Filmmaking, Photography/ floral design
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I’m Jasmine Alves, a multidisciplinary creative director, visual storyteller, and floral artist grown straight out of PVD. I blend photography, film, and immersive floral design to create emotionally compelling, untamed visual narratives. Through my lens, I process and capture the raw essence of emotion and intimate moments, shining light on individuality, empowering fellow WildOnes, and redefining artistic boundaries while honoring our own light. I bring both strategic vision and soulful depth to every project, building cinematic environments centered on transformation, legacy, and intentional beauty. Rooted in resilience and gratitude, I highlight creatives, families, friends, and community, giving people the flowers they truly deserve and crafting intimate imagery and home documentary films meant to live on walls and be revisited for generations.
Beyond my personal work, I am deeply committed to community, advising and supporting youth as they develop their creative voice and step into spaces where their work can be seen and valued. I curate art events, galleries, and gatherings that center WildOnes, underdogs, and emerging creatives across the city, intentionally building environments where expression, connection, and mental wellness are prioritized.
At the heart of everything I create is a desire to document love, honor lived experiences, and create space for people to feel seen in their most real and vulnerable moments.
I believe in growing through what you go through, and in giving people their flowers while they’re still here to receive them.
Henry Flores Jr.
cohort: Summer 2025
Discipline: Narrative Filmmaking, Documentary Filmmaking, On-Set Production Assist (ex. PA, Grip, etc.)
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Growing up in Central Falls shaped the way I see people and stories. Being from a small, tight knit community gave me a strong sense of connection, culture, and shared experience. That environment taught me to value authenticity, resilience, and the power of real stories; qualities that continue to influence the way I approach filmmaking today. Videography is more than just a creative outlet for me. It’s how I connect emotion, visuals, and story into something people can truly feel. I’m especially drawn to documentary filmmaking for its raw authenticity and human depth.Storytelling and on-set production energize me; I love the collaboration, the movement, and the process of bringing an idea to life from concept to final cut.
Leomary Toribio
cohort: Spring 2025
Discipline: Social Media Content Creation, On-Set Production Assist (ex. PA, Grip, etc.)
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Hey, I’m Leo an artist with many talents and a real love for capturing content.
I’ve been creating social media content for over 10 years, and it’s truly a lane I’m passionate about. I enjoy bringing ideas to life through visuals that feel authentic and engaging. Social media today is such a powerful tool it amplifies businesses, spreads news, and helps people get their message out to the world and I love being part of that process.
Whether it’s for a brand, an event, or a personal project, I focus on creating content that connects and stands out.
Abby Deaza
cohort: Fall 2024
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Abby Deaza is a creative content producer passionate about storytelling through fashion, lifestyle, and visual media. She brings ideas to life through curated styling, intentional aesthetics, and dynamic film work that captures both emotion and energy. With a strong eye for detail and culture driven perspective, Abby creates content that connects, inspires, and represents communities often overlooked in luxury and lifestyle spaces.
Discipline: Social Media Content Creation