Faces of Long Island celebrates the uniqueness of everyday Long Islanders. In their own words, they tell us about their life experiences, challenges and triumphs. Newsday launched this social media journey into the human experience to shine a light on the diverse people of this wonderful place we call home.

‘I try to work with projects that represent me or the people that I love and care about.’

Rosario Rodriguez, Greenport

“I was born in Central America and came to the United States in 2001 as a permanent resident. I grew up in a very poor town in Guatemala. When it came to filmmaking, I never saw Guatemalans being represented. So for me, it’s always been about representation, whether that’s being Latina, a woman, queer, first generation: all these layers that make up who I am.

“I want to tell the stories or to share the talents of people of color or minorities. Film is the best way to expose people and bring more knowledge and awareness to them through visuals and audio. But emotionally, it puts you into the shoes of other people. You really get to understand other people’s perspectives.

There is nothing in this world that you cannot achieve.

“I didn’t really know what I wanted to do exactly, but I knew that I loved talking to people and getting to know their stories. Whatever I did, if it included socializing and getting to know people, that was what I was happy about. And if I could film it or record it, it would be a bonus.

“So I decided to go to SUNY Oneonta to get a major in mass communications with the concentration in production. I was able to go to school because of the College Assistant Migrant Program [CAMP]. I first began my film journey in 2017. I got a camera, and I didn’t really do much with it. Then as time went on, I got better and better at practicing. My hobby became my side job. Now I’m at a point in my life where it’s my full-time job.

“I’ve worked on music videos, documentaries, commercials, interviews, club recaps and just anything and everything that has to do with films. I worked on Beyoncé’s production company, on a Jeep commercial, on a movie called ‘18½’ with Jimmy Fallon and musical artists. I do local stuff in my town or wherever I go. I think that being versatile is very important.

“I try to work with projects that are close to my heart in the sense of that they represent me or the people that I love and care about. So, enjoy the journey and every little step that goes towards it. There is nothing in this world that you cannot achieve. If someone says no, that is OK. That’s an experience and an opportunity to learn from. You just keep going, and it will all fall into place.”

Interviewed by Victoria Bell

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Faces of Long Island is produced by Newsday Consumer Marketing. This content does not involve the reporting and editing staff of Newsday’s Editorial Department.