During Women's History Month, we spotlight creators who are actively building new pathways for representation. Monique Palma, an Afro-Panamanian entrepreneur based between Dallas and Los Angeles, exemplifies this drive. She founded What We Watch, a dynamic platform that has grown from a digital show into a multifaceted hub supporting independent film.
From Engineering Equations to Creative Equations
Palma's path to entertainment was anything but linear. She first established herself as a civil and environmental engineer, a stable career that ultimately left her creatively unfulfilled. A pivotal moment arrived in 2019 when she watched Bong Joon-ho's Parasite. The experience was a revelation, clarifying her true calling in writing and directing. She describes film and television as more than a hobby; it was a force that "saved her life," pulling her from one career and launching her into another.
Embracing this major life change, Palma left Texas for Los Angeles, trading certainty for creative possibility. She emphasizes the importance of "taking up space" in an industry where Afro-Latina voices remain scarce, whether that space is behind the camera or in front of it. This commitment to visibility resonates with broader conversations about Afro-Latino representation, which advocates argue deserves focus beyond a single month.
"As an Afro-Latina, there are moments when I feel underrepresented," Palma shared. "But I make it a point to be confident and pour that confidence into other women."
Building What We Watch
That confidence fueled the evolution of What We Watch. What began as a show highlighting indie filmmakers has expanded into a brand encompassing audiobooks, behind-the-scenes content, and crucially, a film festival. The festival stands as one of Palma's proudest achievements, specifically designed to provide independent artists with opportunities for funding and industry exposure that are often gatekept.
Her vision is clear: to platform underrepresented voices and ensure talented filmmakers from marginalized communities get the recognition they deserve. This mission aligns with a cultural moment where audiences are increasingly seeking authentic stories, much like the complex, shared histories within genres like reggaeton.
Palma's work creates a necessary ecosystem. While major festivals and studios dominate headlines, platforms like hers are where the next generation of diverse storytellers often find their first major support. It's a hands-on approach to changing the industry's landscape from the ground up.
Looking Ahead: A Bicoastal Vision
Never one to rest, Palma has ambitious plans for the future. She envisions What We Watch becoming a bicoastal operation, with roots in Los Angeles and a growing presence in New York. Simultaneously, she continues her own creative projects, developing short and feature films with a focus on horror and sci-fi—genres where diverse perspectives are particularly impactful.
Her journey underscores a powerful narrative of resilience and self-determination. It's a reminder that the Latino creative community, far from a monolith, is a network of distinct individuals forging their own paths. Palma's story from engineer to entertainment entrepreneur mirrors a broader trend of Latinas excelling across fields, from the pitch like Brazil's historic Yaras rugby team to the boardroom.
By championing diversity in film and creating tangible opportunities, Monique Palma isn't just participating in the industry; she's actively reshaping its infrastructure to be more inclusive, one filmmaker at a time.
