Jesse Benitez

Jesaline "Jesse" Benitez (born April 2, 1999) is an American independent filmmaker based out of the DMV area. Benitez was born and raised in Alexandria, VA, the second of three children to immigrant parents. Both of her parents are from El Salvador. Benitez grew up with a love for storytelling at a young age, though credits her decision to pursue film seriously after taking a television production course with professor Nancy Mantelli at West Potomac High School. From there, she went on to study Film and Video at George Mason University and continues to work on a number of film productions throughout the D.C. metropolitan area. Benitez often works in the camera department for commercial, short, and documentary films as well as in the art department, for short and long form narrative films. With a passion for music and a background in college radio, Benitez has also worked as both a Music Director and General Manager for the WGMU Radio station, gaining experience through hosting on-air shows, creating podcasts, and covering the local/DIY music scene.