Violeta Ayala is a pioneering filmmaker and creative technologist. As the first Quechua member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Ayala combines traditional narrative with cutting-edge technologies like XR, VR, and AI. Her notable works include the critically acclaimed interactive VR animation “Prison X” (Sundance, Cannes, SXSW) and the AR experience “Las Awichas” displayed on London’s Strand. Ayala has directed powerful documentary films such as “La Lucha” (2023), which helped secure disability pensions in Bolivia, and “Cocaine Prison” (2017). Her films have premiered at major festivals and broadcast globally. Ayala’s work drives social progress, earning over 50 awards, including a Walkley, and nominations from IDA and Rory Peck Awards. Her “Woven Worlds” won the XR Innovation Award at Games For Change 2023, and she has created innovations like a 3D Indigenous Futurism Gallery and co-founded Expylab to expand access to immersive storytelling in the Global South. She was selected as one of the leading voices on AI for “Creating Future: Art and AI for Tomorrow’s Narratives” at the Salzburg Global Seminar. Currently, Ayala combines storytelling, indigenous futurisms, AI, and new mediums to redefine narratives. Projects include a personal documentary on building a Feminist AI and the “Cyberpunk Tinkus” feature film. She is the co-founder of unitednotions.film.  * More at www.violetaayala.com