Amazing opportunity to see GMCS students showcase their film projects
GALLUP, NM — The spotlight is on Gallup once again as the Gallup Film Committee, in proud partnership with the Native Professional Advancement Center (NPAC) Film Program, presents the 3rd Annual Gallup Film & Media Expo—a free, family-friendly celebration of local creativity, culture, and opportunity in New Mexico’s fast-growing film and media industry. The event takes place on April 30th, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, at 825 Outlaw Road, Church Rock, NM 87301, and promises a dynamic experience with film screenings, panel discussions, a working demonstration film set, and local vendor booths.
“This is more than an event—this is a movement,” said Julius Roanhorse, Director of the NPAC Film Program. “We are creating space for our stories to be seen, our voices to be heard, and our people to lead. We want to inspire the next generation of Native filmmakers, writers, and creatives to claim their place in the industry—and in doing so, shape how our communities are represented.”
Film, Future & Representation
The Gallup Film & Media Expo was born out of a vision to connect Indigenous talent to real opportunities in film and media, and to correct the long-standing lack of representation of Native peoples in these spaces. Now in its third year, the Expo has grown into a cornerstone gathering for filmmakers, educators, youth, and advocates alike.
“This year, we’re focusing on access,” said Roanhorse. “Access to knowledge. Access to tools. Access to professional pathways. Whether you're a student who’s never picked up a camera or a seasoned storyteller looking to connect, this is where it begins.”
In addition to a packed schedule of activities, the Expo is an opportunity to engage with representatives from industry unions like IATSE Local 480, learn about apprenticeship programs, and explore higher-wage opportunities in film. With the support of NPAC’s Film Program and its expanding partnerships, the event is also a springboard into meaningful workforce development and creative empowerment.
Event Highlights
· Film Screenings – Featuring work from Native and local filmmakers
· Panel Discussions – Covering topics such as Indigenous representation, careers in film, and storytelling as activism\
· Demonstration Film Set – A behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to make movie magic
· Vendor Booths – Local businesses, filmmakers, and creative organizations
Building a Legacy Through Film
Through its Film Program, NPAC is building a cultural and economic bridge—one that connects Indigenous communities with professional film careers, and opens new creative avenues for expression, identity, and visibility.
“Our goal is to plant seeds of creativity that grow into careers, companies, and cultural change,” Roanhorse added. “When our people are behind the camera, in the director’s chair, and writing the scripts—we reclaim our narratives and our power. This event is a reminder that film is not just entertainment—it’s education, it’s economy, it’s sovereignty.”
