About the Silicon Valley Asian Pacific Film Festival

About CATS
Previous Filmfest
Staff

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

Visit CATS Website

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