Event and Panel Moderation
As a passionate advocate for the arts, Gabe specializes in moderating panels and events that bring filmmakers together to share insights, explore creative processes, and foster collaboration. With a deep understanding of the film industry and a commitment to amplifying diverse voices, they create engaging and inclusive environments where participants can discuss their work, challenges, and visions for the future of cinema. Their experience includes hosting Q&A sessions, facilitating discussions on contemporary film topics, and curating events that highlight the intersection of film and social justice.
Philly Climate Works hosted a powerful community screening featuring the short film What Needs to Be Done: Six Stories of Built to Last and the feature film Razing Liberty Square. This event highlighted the critical intersections of housing rights and climate justice, showcasing the stories of those directly affected by these pressing issues.
Following the screenings, attendees engaged in a thought-provoking community conversation facilitated by Gabe Castro, contributor for cinéSPEAK Journal.
This discussion featured local organizers from Philly Thrive, Save Chinatown Coalition, HERE 4 Climate Justice Coalition (Housing Equity, Repair, and Electrification for Climate Justice), and Hunting Park Neighborhood Association. Participants came together to explore the challenges and opportunities in the fight for equitable housing and a sustainable future.
On May 30, 2024, SIFTMedia215 held a screening of SUNDOWN ROAD, followed by a Talk Back session with filmmaker and SIFTer M. Asli Dukan. The discussion was moderated by producer, host, and fellow SIFTer Gabe Castro.
Watch the conversation here.
Independence Public Media Foundation showcased films that explored the theme of finding and staying connected to our roots as the ultimate path to freedom in a society that often pressures us to conform. As the saying goes, “A tree without roots will dry up and die” — a sentiment echoed in No Sé: The Seed of Love es Paz.
The screening took place at 7:00 PM and included a Q&A session with the filmmakers, moderated by Gabe Castro, member programming manager at PhillyCAM, contributor to cinéSPEAK Journal, and co-host of “Ghouls Next Door,” an award-winning media literacy podcast viewed through a horror lens.
PhillyCAM TV Producer Retreat
PhillyCAM was excited to host this year’s TV Producer Retreat! The retreat provided an opportunity for attendees to learn about PhillyCAM’s current and upcoming member resources, connect with fellow members, and build community within our organization. The event was hosted by Gabe Castro, Member Programming Manager.
cinéSPEAK, the Academy of Natural Sciences and the Bryn Mawr Film Institure were delighted to celebrate the work of local filmmaker Bilal Motley by featuring two of his impactful short films—Midnight Oil (2020) and Trash & Burn (2024*. These films highlight the pressing issues of environmental destruction and racism in our Philadelphia region.
The screening was followed by a conversation with the filmmaker, community organizers, and Chester PA's mayor, moderated by columnist Gabe Castro.