GRANTS

Simbelle Impact Award

Named after our founders' two daughters, Simone and Lillybelle, Simbelle was created to help shape a world where their voices — and the voices of women and girls everywhere — are heard, valued, and uplifted. We believe in the transformative power of storytelling to illuminate the diverse and vital experiences of women around the globe. That’s why, in partnership with Breaking Through the Lens, we’re thrilled to announce the launch of the Simbelle Impact Award — a $10,000 unrestricted grant supporting a filmmaker whose vision aligns with our mission. This award is about trust, community, and championing bold stories that move us toward a more equitable future.

The 2026 Simbelle Impact Award winners are Ana Endara and Isabella Gálvez, with Victoria en las Nubes (Victoria in the Clouds).

LOGLINE: In Panama’s cloudy highlands, 65-year-old coffee grower Victoria confronts a real estate project that threatens her land and way of life. Shifting tensions with her long-time employee opens her eyes to a changing world. The transformation forces her to question the privileges that have allowed her to live there in comfort.

2026 Winners

About The Filmmakers

Ana Endara - Director

Ana Endara is a filmmaker. She holds a degree in Social Sciences from Florida State University and studied Film Directing at the International School of Film and Television (EICTV) in Cuba. In 2024, she made her fiction debut with Beloved Tropic, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and San Sebastián Film Festival. She has directed four documentaries: Curundú, Reinas, The Joy of Sound, and For Your Peace of Mind, Make Your Own Museum. In 2012, she founded Mansa Productora.Victoria in the Clouds is Ana’s second fiction feature.

Isabella Gálvez - Producer

Isabella Gálvez is a film producer. For more than 15 years, she has worked in film production, training, and cultural initiatives that support the growth of Panama’s local film industry. Her most recent production, Querido Trópico, has been touring international festivals and receiving multiple awards since its premiere at TIFF in 2024. Her previous work includes Sister & Sister, For Your Peace of Mind, Make Your Own Museum, Kenke, and The Joy of Sound, among others. She is currently developing new film projects through her production company, Expansiva Cine.

Simbelle Mothers In Focus Grant

The Simbelle Mothers in Focus Grant is an annual $5,000 unrestricted grant to support a mother working in the film industry. No demands, no follow-up reports, just extra funds to help you as a mother in the film industry take care of whatever you need to.

Inaugural winner to be announced on Mother’s Day, 2026.

Please get in touch with us at info@simbelleproductions.com with any questions.