About the Silicon Valley Asian Pacific Film Festival
About The Festival
The Silicon Valley Asian Pacific FilmFest is an eagerly anticipated event that celebrates the vibrant and diverse perspectives of Asian American filmmaking. As an annual showcase of breathtaking cinematography, compelling storytelling, and thought-provoking subjects, the festival serves as a platform to highlight the rich cultural tapestry and the unique experiences of Asian Americans on the silver screen.
Each year, the festival attracts both seasoned filmmakers and emerging talents alike, fostering a sense of community and providing a space for important conversations about identity, belonging, and the Asian American experience. Through its carefully curated selection of films and panel discussions, the festival not only entertains and captivates audiences but also encourages increased representation and inclusivity in the film industry.
The Silicon Valley Asian Pacific FilmFest (formerly San Jose J-Town FilmFest) celebrates Silicon Valley's multiethnic community and rich history. It is an all-volunteer effort run by a diverse team of community members. The film festival showcases independent films primarily by Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) filmmakers. SVAPFF offers quality programming, giving the community a chance to interact with the creative talents behind these films.
About CATS
For three decades, Contemporary Asian Theater Scene (CATS) has served as a vital platform for showcasing and supporting AAPI artists across Silicon Valley and beyond. Through programs that span theater, film, music, literature, and visual arts, we highlight the work of both emerging and established AAPI artists. In 2024 alone, CATS welcomed over 3,000 audience members and supported more than 260 artists. Our programs bring together artists whose voices build empathy and inspire action. At CATS, we see art as a catalyst—one that transforms not only individual lives but the collective cultural landscape through connection, courage, and creativity.
In remembrance of Dr. Jerry and Steve Yamaguma
Staff
SVAPFF Leadership
Cindy Toy - SVAPFF Managing Director
Joanne Ho - SVAPFF Programming Director
Leianne Lamb - Community Outreach Director
Marketing
Miiko Mentz - Social Media
Jack Howe - Web Master
Theatre Operations
Iszac Gaton - Tech Lead: Audio Visual
Marie Wong - Theatre Experience
Richard Ho - Theatre Experience
FILM Selection Committee
Victoria Taketa - Committee lead
Andy Chung
Caroline Moore
Cindy Toy
Ellina Yin
Jill Burns
Joanne Ho
Kathleen Lee
King Yaw Soon
Leianne Lamb
Linda Park
Matt Lin
Michelle Makino
Suzie Willemsz-Geeroms
Lobby Operations
Kelly Toy - Guest Check In
Kevin Pascual - Guest Check In
Kathleen Lee - Volunteer Check In
Vickie Taketa - Filmmaker Check In
Event Setup/Tear Down Operations
Chris Hioki
Bowman Ching
Hospitality Committee
Judy Higuchi
Kathy Higuchi
LaDonna Yumori-Kaku
Lin Tso
Photographers/Videographers
Henry Nakata
Lawrence Su
Anthony Le
Mike Kaku
Sky Hsu