ABOUT US
Ali Alkhafaji
Festival Director
After pursuing a career in film, Ali wanted to give filmmakers the experience he desired in festivals. Since its inception in 2017, Ali has watched LA UNDER THE STARS grow from an idea to one of the TOP 100 BEST-REVIEWED FESTIVALS.
He currently hosts two other festivals in Austin TX called
"Austin Under the Stars" & "Austin Spotlight".
All his festivals donate proceeds to Autism Society of America.
Leila Scott
Judge/Red Carpet MC
With over 7+ years of experience as an actor, Leila's judging insights have been crucial to the selection process. Leila is currently working in commercial & narrative films.
Madison Moreland
Marketing Director
As a graduate of the University of Texas, Madison handles daily outreach & promotion within the student community both locally with the Department of Radio-Television-Film & nationally.
Michael Schuermann
Graphic Designer
With an exceptional background in communications & visual arts, Michael has been instrumental in creating the LA Under the Stars brand.
Michael now works as a motion designer & animator in video production.
TJ Faraizi
Judge/Programmer
Shafayet Faraizi is an award-winning international producer, actor, voiceover artist, public speaker, host, and proud programmer/judge of LA Under the Stars. He is the first Bangladeshi-American to work in major productions both through Hollywood and Bangladesh. A devoted human rights activist, Mr. Faraizi has created and will continue to produce media that will bring aid and awareness to social injustices and worthy causes all around the world.
Derrick Edmond
Social Media Analyst
A US Army veteran & former intelligence contractor, Derrick now works as a Cinematographer & Camera Operator for Inspiran Studios. Although most credits to his name are behind the camera, he has also acted in multiple roles including National Geographic’s “The Long Road Home”. Derrick looks to change the stereotypes of combat veterans in film.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Tracy Morse
Board of Directors
As President of Images, Inc., Tracy Morse developed a business that filled a need for strategic communication and public outreach across a variety of industries. Morse is breaking ground by reshaping the way outreach is done in the transportation industry.
Janie Gallagher
Board of Directors
Head of the PR Foundation for Broden Company, an independent record label in Los Angeles. Personal Assistant at Red Light Management Los Angeles. Personal Assistant to Fernando Giaccardi, manager of award winning singer-songwriter Enrique Iglesias. Served as an Administrative Assistant for Red Light Nashville working with clients ranging from: Alabama Shakes, Amos Lee, Taj Mahal, Rayland Baxter, String Cheese Incident, & many more.
