Yaniel Paulino is an Emmy-nominated Dominican-American filmmaker from New York City. Raised between Washington Heights and the Dominican Republic, his work bridges cultures and generations—focusing on the Latinx community and telling stories that explore faith, identity, mental health, and the beauty found in the human experience. Yaniel has built a career defined by authenticity, purpose, and a deep commitment to empowering communities through storytelling that uplifts and inspires.

His debut feature film, Grayscale, won the Audience Award at the Chelsea Film Festival, marking the beginning of a body of work that continues to inspire and move audiences. His 2022 feature film, Something of Value, has screened at multiple festivals, exploring sacrifice and redemption through the lens of the Latino experience.

Yaniel has also directed award-winning campaigns, earning a Silver Telly Award and an Emmy nomination for his PSA with the New York Latino Film Festival (NYLFF). Deeply rooted in his community, he continues to create films that amplify diverse voices and remind audiences of the enduring power of faith, love, and resilience.