Isabel Tiburcio is a high school junior passionate about songwriting, journalism, and all things film. With experience in front and behind the camera, Isabel hopes to pursue filmmaking professionally. Her biggest project yet, Maladaptive, written and directed by her, is currently in production. She can’t wait for everyone to see it!

In her freshman year of high school, she founded The Gaia Zine, an organization that provides resources and publication opportunities to young creatives like herself. In just a year and a half, The Gaia Zine has grown tremendously with contributors in 15 countries around the world. Gaia plans to hold its 2nd Annual Film Festival and publish its very first anthology book this year thanks to the help of the Queens World Film Festival, Taco Bell, Ashoka, and Prudential Insurance.

Isabel is also very passionate about social justice and political science. This past year she worked as both a Senate Page and Chamber Assistant in the United States Senate. She currently serves as the Chief Organizer of State Senator Shelley Mayer’s Youth Advisory Council which promotes civic engagement in teens and young voters. Above all, Isabel hopes to make a difference through her art and writing as she continues her educational and creative journeys.