From Facebook Page to Emmy Nominee – SVL’s Storytelling Journey

Dear SVL Comunidad,

When we launched Silicon Valley Latino back in 2011, we had one clear vision: to uplift, celebrate, and amplify the powerful stories of our Latino community. What began as a passion project—a simple Facebook page sharing stories that reflected our culture, hustle, and heart—quickly evolved into a full-fledged movement. By June 2012, SVL officially became an LLC, staying true to our mission while expanding into digital storytelling through social media, our online magazine, and a series of beautifully printed publications that highlighted our gente.

Then came 2016—an unforgettable turning point. We were invited to collaborate with our longtime partner, Cisco, to produce a highlight reel for their Latinx ERG, “Conexión.” That opportunity sparked something special and powerful—it led to our first client video production and marked the birth of what is now The SVL Agency, our award-winning, full-service creative agency dedicated to bringing brand stories to life with authenticity and corazón.

Fast forward to today, and we are incredibly proud to be trusted creative partners on the vendor list of world-class brands like Nvidia, Adobe, Kaiser Permanente, Google, BILL, LinkedIn, Palo Alto Networks, and Santa Clara University—as well as the many small businesses and mission-driven nonprofits we are honored to support. Each collaboration is a reflection of mutual trust, creativity, and shared values. We thank every single one of you who has invited us to help share your story with the world.

One of the most meaningful milestones in our journey? Without question—CAMPESINOS: America’s Unsung Heroes, our award-winning documentary that pays tribute to the dignity, strength, and sacrifice of Latino farmworkers. At a time when their voices are often ignored, we remain committed to putting their stories front and center—where they belong.

And now, another proud moment in our story:
In 2025, for the very first time, we submitted an SVL project for Emmy consideration—and we were thrilled to receive a nomination for our 30 second commercial, “Farmworkers: The Most Forgotten Community.” Featuring farmworkers from Half Moon Bay and our friends at Ayudando Latinos a Soñar (ALAS), this piece was directed by our incredibly talented cinematographer, Joe Poni, and produced by SVL founder Alex Ontiveros.

Although the Emmy went to the creative team at the San Francisco 49ers, we proudly celebrate our fellow Latino creatives—Aaron Sarmiento, Mason Rodriguez, and Sarina Soriano—for their amazing work. To stand with such inspiring company is a win in itself—and we’re more fired up than ever to keep creating content that inspires, empowers, and connects.

To our clients, Cultura Ambassadors, Advisory Board Members, and the broader SVL comunidad—gracias. Thank you for believing in us, walking alongside us, and lifting us as we grow.

Let’s continue to tell the stories that matter. The stories that move us.
The stories that reflect who we are.

In Collaborative Spirit (#JuntosAdelante),
– The SVL Team

#CreoEnTi #CreoEnNosotros #InspireEmpowerConnect #YoSoySVL #LatinoCreatives #SVLAgency #SiliconValleyLatino