Team and Leadership
LEARN ABOUT THE CINEQUEST TEAM
Welcome to the people who empower through innovation, opportunity, and creativity. The four pillars of our team culture are joyous passion to fulfill our vision, kindness, vanguard achievement, and love.
LEADERSHIP
Halfdan Hussey
CEO & Co-Founder
Halfdan (hallf' dun) Hussey is the Co-Founder and CEO of Creatics Enterprises, Maverick Studio, and Cinequest. Set in the Silicon Valley, Cinequest fuses innovation with the filmed arts to empower great creations and to engage audiences, youth, artists, and innovators with these creations and with each other. Creatics is an exciting new global platform for experiencing creative work, engaging with the artists and fans of that work, and belonging to an inspiring community. Maverick Studio brings the elements of successful studios into the future with groundbreaking audience platforms and leading-edge technologies—along with a commitment to inspire, inform, and elevate the human spirit.
"Strength comes from the people involved and how great their passion and skills are. The leaders of Cinequest (and now Creatics) have both of those." - Steve Wozniak (Co-Founder, Apple Inc)
In addition to his entrepreneurial work, he is also a renowned writer and film producer. His passion for creating positive and transformative impact in our world is ever-present in his work. Named one of the 25 people who most dramatically changed the Silicon Valley over the past 25 years, Halfdan is a recognized leader in art and technology. Having produced five films, written two books, and successfully built companies, Halfdan lives his love for the worlds of leadership, creativity, and youth empowerment.
A math wiz, Halfdan shocked his disadvantaged family by entering the creative world. At twenty-two, after earning Summa Cum Laude in Lit., Halfdan wrote his first screenplay while driving a cab in New York City. Halfdan then directed and co-produced a truly independent feature, He's Still There, that opened to rave reviews at the Venice Film Festival. The film was a hit at the Critic's section of the festival. Soon thereafter, he directed Still Waters Burn.
"I really like Still Waters Burn. Its young director shows brilliant promise and talent." - Robert Wise (Four time Academy Award Winner; legendary director of The Day The Earth Stood Still, West Side Story, Sound of Music)
"Ultimately, He's Still There is a sincerely great movie full of feeling and aspirations. Halfdan Hussey demonstrates not only an idea but also a remarkable ability to translate an idea to film. Halfdan Hussey is not only a 'goodfella' but a young bravo regazzo. Above all he is a bravo regista (great director)." - Francesco Carrara, Venice Film Festival (Il Piccolo)
Halfdan then co-founded and developed Cinequest in the Silicon Valley to empower creativity and innovation. Cinequest was recently named Best Film Festival by USA Today Readers and has been hailed as the place where you will "find the future of film" by The Ultimate Guide to Film Festivals. Cinequest’s renowned Picture The Possibilities youth programs inspires global youth to picture their vision for their life and create it.
Next was the founding and building of an internet platform, Creatics, to forge new and scalable opportunities for youth, artists, and innovators to create better and engage their creations or stories with a global community that deeply cares and also benefits from these creations.
His first novel, To The Dogs, and his motivational book, 7 Powers of Creating, showcase his passion for the written word and storytelling.
Halfdan gives his leadership, creativity, and entrepreneurial capacities to inspire people and to empower creative work and narrative that benefits the world.
Kathleen J. Powell
President & Co-Founder
Combining a diverse background in engineering and art, plus a passion to bring the transformative vision of youth and artists to the world, Kathleen J. Powell serves as President and Co-Founder of Cinequest Inc.
Cinequest’s unique yet integrated divisions showcase Kathleen’s capacities: 1) Cinequest Picture The Possibilities empowers youth through the creation of transformative films, connecting with leaders and global audiences to improve worlds; 2) Cinequest Mavericks Studio creates innovative and transformative motion pictures and distribution paradigms; and 3) Cinequest Film & VR Festival provides a discovery bastion for film, artists and media technologies.
Although gifted in math and science, the teenage Kathleen answered her father’s question about her future as follows: “I want to be a truck driver.” He convinced her to forego this apparent passion to pursue higher education. Ironically, this path led to her true calling. While gaining her Masters in computer science, a group of visionary filmmakers convinced her to join their summer feature film project. She produced the film, He’s Still There, which went on premiere at the Venice Film Festival. Inspired, she would soon Co-Found Cinequest with Halfdan Hussey in the Silicon Valley.
"Strength comes from the people involved and how great their passion and skills are. The leaders of Cinequest have both of those. That's why it's been with us for some time and will still be here long into the future." - Steve Wozniak (Co-Founder, Apple Inc)
Named a top ten film festival in the world and the leader in showcasing (and applying) the technologies that have revolutionized film making, exhibition and distribution, Cinequest Film & VR Festival (CQFF) has built a legacy of discovery, pioneering and connecting. Many firsts have occurred at CQFF: countless film and technology premieres.
As a part of her ongoing influence and effort to empower, Kathleen led Cinequest to create Picture the Possibilities, giving youth the power to create through film and in their lives. Already youth in Silicon Valley, Los Angeles, New York City, Mexico City, Jakarta, Cambodia, Hong Kong, and Beijing have used this power to create over 200 films and projects of impact.
Cinequest Mavericks Studio (CMS) has fostered Kathleen’s ability to further the voice of artists through distribution (over 70 feature films) as well as production of films that matter. Recently Kathleen had the honor of co-directing and co-producing Life is Love, a highly uplifting feature film about a group of inspirational women who have triumphed over severe adversity. Life Is Love completed post-production in September 2013 and was released in 2015.
In addition to her work at Cinequest, Kathleen enjoys giving power to women in developing countries via mentoring with the Bush Institute’s Women’s Initiative Fellowship. Prominent American business women are paired with Fellows to empower and equip these women to become effective leaders. As one of their first leaders, she mentored a young woman from Egypt, helping her develop leadership skills, build a strong media company, learn to advocate for social stability, and build civil society.
Metro Newspapers named Kathleen one of the 25 people who dramatically changed the Silicon Valley over the past 25 years in 2010.
Kathleen’s profound impact and everlasting passion to empower globally has provided exceptional opportunities and impact. With her unending passion and love for serving artists, innovators and youth worldwide, Kathleen takes new strides towards the future in her personal and professional contributions.
CONTENT AND DESIGN
Selina Her
Product Designer
Selina is a very accomplished Stanford University senior majoring in Science, Technology, and Society (STS). She’s passionate about using design thinking to help people unleash their full creative, collaborative, and productive potential.
“I believe that strong design with integrity is interdisciplinary and human-centered--combining psychology, user research/testing, prototyping, and more.”
When she’s not designing the Creatics by CMS prototype or studying at Stanford, Selina loves playing the Harp, Social Dancing and her dog Latte.
Alex Chen
Lead Graphic Designer
“What I love about film, and design in general, is how everything is planned out; from the camera movement, to the actor’s performance, down to the music. Everything done is logical, but the reaction to it is pure emotional. That is the brilliance of art; it is taking something abstract and injecting humanity into it.”
Alex joined Cinequest as the lead graphic designer, creating the graphic assets for the festival and working on the marketing campaign. He previously worked as a graphic/UI designer for a start-up and has done concept illustrations as a freelancer. His love of film and helping other artists realize their dream is what drove him to Cinequest.
He is eager to see the attendees’ reaction to all the hard work put into this year’s Cinequest and strives to make the festival a complete success.
In his free time, Alex loves to draw, work out, and cook new recipes at home. He is also an avid music lover, often mixing music sets together and has even performed a few public events. Traveling has long been a passion of his and he hopes to set out to a new country soon to experience a whole new culture and taste the delicious food.
May Yam
VR Programs & Film Producer
“My passion for telling compelling stories and touching the heart and soul of the viewer is what drives me to be a filmmaker. Having the opportunity at Cinequest to give back to the independent film community by helping other artists find an outlet is very gratifying to me personally.”
May’s main tasks at Cinequest are managing and implementing the emerging Virtual Reality Experience Lounge and VR Cinema programs, leading the film production team to capture world-class events, create content to show throughout the festival, and handling post-production supervision and editing for Cinequest and Picture the Possibilities.
She is honored to be able to work alongside people who are dedicated to showcasing the best of independent film, giving all creative people a chance to have their voices and stories heard and wants everyone to have an amazing immersive adventure in the VR program.
May’s love for creating films has been a craft she’s cultivated over the last 15 years and has created award-winning work shot both in America and internationally. She enjoys working across a multitude of media genres including narrative films, documentaries, marketing videos, music videos and virtual reality experiences. She’s also helping judge the Emmy Award’s (NATAS) and trying to keep a full balanced life by being an active kiteboarding sports enthusiast.
MANAGEMENT
Michael Rabehl
Director of Programming & Associate Director
“I embrace the challenges of putting together a program like Cinequest’s. Hearing the reactions from audiences and artists when they come together through art is a reward like no other. There’s nothing quite like finding a personal story and helping provide a space that proves its universal appeal.”
Michael has been a member of the Cinequest team since 1994. As the Director of Programming, he manages the film selection process for the festival and supervises the programming teams to create a world-class line up of films and guests every year. In his role as the Associate Director, he is directly involved with the strategic planning of the festival.
Michael’s passion to discover new talent and help artists connect with audiences through the art of cinema inspires his work at Cinequest. Over two decades he has jump-started the careers of many successful artists and brought celebrities like Jackie Chan and William H. Macy to Cinequest. He has programmed thousands of World, North American and United States premieres and helped make Cinequest what is it today – one of the Top 10 Film Festivals in the world and the leader in innovations that empower artists and audiences.
Michael’s enthusiasm for meaningful connections continues outside of Cinequest. The father of two loves to spend time with his family and friends. Michael’s sociable nature and his excitement for comedy and music make him a welcome guest wherever he goes.
Angela Ostermeier
V.P. Development & Screenplay Director
“From as long as I can remember I have always had a passion to work in the film industry with creative and inspiring people. I am truly humbled to be working at Cinequest which gives me the opportunity to do both.”
Angela recently joined the Cinequest team as the Events & Development Manager for our 2018 Cinequest Film & Festival. Her love for film and ability to bring people together makes her a valuable asset to this year’s event staff. Angela will be working closely with our sponsors, venue locations, and VIP’s to ensure that our events such as Maverick Meet-Ups, Nightly VIP Soirees, and Opening & Closing night parties go off without a hitch. She prides herself on her attention to detail and drive to make this year’s CQFF a success.
In school, she studied Public Relations, Film, and Marketing and looks forward to incorporating her Event Planning skills in a pivotal way. This year’s theme of Impact is exceptionally important to Angela because that is the exact effect she is hoping to have here at Cinequest.
During her free time, Angela enjoys outside activities including kayaking, hiking, and swimming. She loves animals of all kinds and binge-watching TV shows such as Game of Thrones, Walking Dead, and The Challenge.
She is looking forward to connecting with the diverse group of Cinequest attendees as well as getting an inside peak at life behind the red carpet.
Shreyansh Ojha
Product Manager & Festival Tech Manager
After receiving his MBA from Duke, Shreyansh joined the Cinequest team to lead two important areas: 1) Product Management for the Creatics platform which hosts Cinequest's Virtual Film Festival (called Cinejoy), and 2) Festival Tech Management for the In-Person Cinequest Film Festivals. Shreyansh also supports the digital content management needed for these festivals online program lineup and events.
Marcela Villegas Castañón
Manager, Picture The Possibilities
“I love coordinating, planning, producing, and executing events and programs that have an impact. Working with Picture the Possibilities has truly been a wonderful opportunity to affect the lives of youth in a positive way. I’ve undergone an inspiring and life affirming experience, building friendships with our teen participants and all of our volunteer mentors in creating amazing and empowering films.”
Marcela has been involved in bringing Cinequest and its various divisions to life since 2010. She has managed the Hospitality department, delivering 5 Diamond customer service to all of Cinequest’s guests. In addition, she manages Cinequest’s Picture the Possibilities (PTP) program, empowering youth through the creation of transformative films and connecting them with leaders and global audiences to initiate change.
Marcela’s motivation at work is to make a lasting impact. From ensuring flawless organization of Cinequest’s hospitality efforts to empowering youth and communities, she is fueled by the knowledge that she has made a difference in someone’s life. Marcela strongly cares for the well-being and comfort of festival guests and the participating artists. Connecting with the vibrant mix of filmmakers and seeing them have meaningful experiences leaves Marcela inspired and motivated for years to come. In the same way, Picture the Possibilities’ life-changing impact reaffirms Marcela’s flame for life and the excitement for her job.
Marcela’s desire to inspire and be inspired extends beyond Cinequest. She enjoys spending time outdoors, while camping and hiking, as well as being captivated by good films, music, and especially her “crazy,” beloved family.
Krisuan Rosalejos
Chief Concierge & Event Planner
As an Event and Development Intern at Cinequest, I am responsible for assisting Management with corporate sponsorship and event planning. I love working for Cinequest because of it?s impeccable performance of creating such a dynamic atmosphere in events and a family-oriented culture in the office. I am looking forward to pursuing the vision and mission of Cinequest by implementing the knowledge and growth of world-class excellence that Cinequest will be providing me with.
In March 2015, I became the recipient of the Hall of Fame Award in the Urban Performing Arts Community that was presented by CDF. I have also received 14 awards from the production company, World Of Dance, which also broadcasted on the NBC Television Network hosted by Jennifer Lopez.
Other productions I've worked on are NBC?s America?s Got Talent, NFL?s Super Bowl 50 Halftime with Coldplay feat. Beyoncé & Bruno Mars, San Francisco 49ers Halftime with Snoop Dogg, Sean Kingston & E-40, The Black Eyed Peas, NBA?s Golden State Warriors, NBC?s Fame, and Fox?s American Idol. My current course of study at San Jose State University, Events Production will enhance my current experience in production work and increase creativity.
Jasmine Sohn
Marketing Manager
“When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace.” –Jimi Hendricks
Jasmine recently joined the Cinequest family, and she will manage the marketing department for this year’s, “Cinequest Film and Creativity Festival.” With her experience in customer service and marketing, and her love for film, art, and dance; Jasmine will work closely with the marketing team to bring Cinequest’s creativity, vision, and story to the rest of the world. She is excited to attend this year’s Cinequest Film and Creativity Festival for the very first time, and what better way than to actually be involved and be a part of the prestigious event. Cinequest is very impactful because it brings people from all walks of life together; people who share the same passion and have the opportunity to learn from each other.
Outside of Cinequest, she loves traveling around the world and immersing herself into different cultures. Also, she spends her free time dancing, spending quality time with friends and family, adventuring out and trying new things like sky diving. That is definitely next on her bucket list.
Gabriella Deyi
Publicity & Media Manager
As Cinequest’s Publicity & Media Manager, Gabriella cultivates relationships with media while overseeing press engagements for the festival. She secures and coordinates coverage in the form of print editorials, social, digital, radio interviews, and national TV segments.
From assignment desk intern, to local broadcast television reporter, to Miss Wisconsin USA 2020, to corporate storyteller for Logitech, and to her most recent role as the media relations manager for the Glide Foundation in San Francisco- Gabby’s love for storytelling is informed with the versatility of her experiences! Each chapter of her professional journey has helped her to understand that each story can be told differently, in unique places, and be powerful in a new way every time it is heard.
During her time as Miss Wisconsin USA and while competing for Miss USA 2020, she opened up the conversation about mental health awareness by sharing her personal story of hiding being “perfection” while being the child and sister of loved ones living with mental health struggles. Her story led to her becoming a national ambassador for Mental Health of America while also bringing to light the mental health concerns that the contestants who compete at Miss USA go through following the death of Miss USA 2019, Cheslie Kryst.
She says, “I don’t want to just have someone tell their story; I want to enlighten them on HOW to tell their story in a way that helps someone, inspires everyone, and motivates a deeper understanding of humanity in those that are listening.”
As the new Publicist and Media manager, Gabby will nurture current and future relationships that highlight Cinequest with coverage of what we have always done best - celebrate the creativity and innovation of storytelling!
Mark McGowan
Volunteer Manager & Associate Producer
“We are defined by our actions, not our thoughts” – Gary John Bishop
Mark McGowan is a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience in business/investments and a passion for creative ventures. Those close to him would also describe him as fun, engaging and witty.
Originally from Chicago, IL, Mark began his career in banking and quickly transitioned to helping individuals and businesses owners with their financial goals. Specializing in retirement planning, Mark provided guidance related to investment allocations, business planning, project management and mentorship to professionals and youth.
At a young age, Mark developed a passion for entertainment and visual storytelling. He is an avid comic-book collector and loves the magic and power of film. This passion led Mark to Cinequest, where he looks to merge his professional skills and passion for media while learning from the industries best.
In the Volunteer Management role, Mark supports various functions critical to the success of the Cinequest Film & Creativity Festival including support for department leaders, recruitment and support of volunteers, event planning and production needs.
In addition to his professional ambitions, Mark is a dedicated husband of 15 years and father of three beautiful children. Mark believes in being a life-long learner and enjoys expanding his understanding of history, psychology, health, and entertainment.
Matt Opsal
Director, Digital Content & Product Manager
"You make a living by what you get; you make a life by what you give." - Sir Winston Churchill
As Director of Digital Content and Product Manager for Cinequest, Matt has collaborated with leading Silicon Valley partners to integrate new and emerging technologies on Cinequest properties. Matt has constantly streamlined the operational aspects of Cinequest and successfully launched innovative online services including creativity contests, sales/ticketing platforms, content distribution libraries, websites, and cross-platform tablet and mobile applications. During the Cinequest Film & VR Festival, Matt works to ensure a world-class level of technical implementation—managing all audio and video presentations for screenings and events, while also coordinating film shipments, projectionists, technical staff, and volunteers.
Matt is driven by the knowledge that his work impacts people in a meaningful way. Seeing smiles on people's faces when they watch Cinequest films or interact with the Cinequest website rewards him for his hard work and drives him to continuously search for ways to enhance our audience’s experience. Since 2005, Matt has constantly streamlined the operational aspects of Cinequest and successfully launched five websites, alongside tablet and mobile applications for Blackberry, iOS, and Android.
Matt’s love for the creative world continues outside of Cinequest. The film enthusiast loves working on new technologies, digital photography, and design while staying active playing hockey.
IT & FINANCE
Lou Bash
Information Services
“Cinequest is an organization that passionately wants to make a difference in our community. I love being a part of that.”
Lou has managed Cinequest’s Information Technology and Data Communication Services since 1999. The size of computers has shrunk since then but not Lou’s motivation to constantly find the perfect solution for Cinequest’s IT infrastructure. Lou continuously stays on top of trends and ensures that our computer systems are functional, up to date and efficient. He also implemented Cinequest’s new e-commerce service, enabling and extending online sales and contributor support.
Lou’s passion for meeting people from all walks of life culminates in the annual Cinequest Film & VR Festival where he is in charge of managing the box office. He loves working alongside his diverse and vibrant team of volunteers to ensure that ticket sales run smoothly and guests experience excellent customer service.
The Cinequest team benefits from Lou’s culinary expertise every week when he turns up the heat on “Pie Friday”. Outside of the office, he enjoys hiking the Bay Area’s finest trails, SCUBA Diving, and indulging in one of his long time favorites, online role-playing games.
Dorenda Haynes
Bookkeeping & Finance
“It’s exciting to work for an organization that values all the detailed steps that lead to a great impact.”
Dorenda is an integral part of the Cinequest team. Knowledgeable on finance and tax law, she identifies, prepares and reviews our financial records, confirms their accuracy, and ensures that Cinequest’s financial operations run smoothly and successfully.
Dorenda’s love for people serves as her motivation to continue supporting Cinequest’s mission of creating, innovating and empowering. The outgoing optimist enjoys working with a wide range of diverse, vibrant people and engaging with the Bay Area community and beyond.
When Dorenda is not at the Cinequest office, she spends her time shopping and with family.
CURATION & CONTENT PROGRAMMERS
Saily Ghodke
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Saily Ghodke
CJ Knapp
Lead Programmer
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CJ Knapp
Lead Programmer
Ash Willeby
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Ash Willeby
Kimy Martinez
Lead Programmer
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Kimy Martinez
Lead Programmer
Debra Latta
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Debra Latta
Pamela Perry
Lead Programmer
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Pamela Perry
Lead Programmer
Nick Coleman
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Nick Coleman
Kim Grimes
Lead Programmer
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Kim Grimes
Lead Programmer
Mike DiNucci
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Mike DiNucci
Carl Diamond
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Carl Diamond
Diane Walsh
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Diane Walsh
Alexey Samsonov
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Alexey Samsonov
Kathryn SolerBeer
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Kathryn SolerBeer
Christopher Phillips
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Christopher Phillips
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
CEO & Co-Founder
President & Co-Founder
CEO Tech Start-up Advisor
Retired Kaiser Permanente
AWS Elemental, Amazon
CEO/Board Advisor
Oakland A's
President, 1929 Productions
* Independent Voting Members
LEADERSHIP COUNCIL
Chief Revenue Office & Head of Studio Relations, Cinionic
Senior Editor, Fortune Magazine
Co-Founder, Apple Inc.
Inventor, Entrepreneur, Futurist
Vice President & Co-Founder, VIZIO, INC.
Senior Vice President, Disney+
Managing Partner at Rivet Ventures
Founder & CEO, HINT
President, Freeman
Creative Commons
Managing Partner at Navitas Capital
Co-Founder & CEO, Baobab Studios
ADVISORY COUNCIL
CENTRO39.COM
Commercial Real Estate & Construction Consulting
Executive VP, Comerica Bank
CEO & Managing Partner, Next Family Office
Co-Founder, TrinityVR
Chief Creative Officer, Baobab Studios
Director, Content & Services, Samsung
Chief Product Officer, SoundCloud
Emeritus, Fox Studio Executive
Emeritus, Midnite Express