Liliana Sanchez: Creating Language Accessibility through Representation

As Development Manager at Telemundo Streaming Studios, Liliana Sanchez drives business operations that align with the demands of the entertainment industry. She believes in increasing accessibility of content and resources for Spanish-speaking communities to create a more inclusive media landscape.

Can you share a little about what you do as Development Manager at Telemundo?

As Development Manager in the streaming department, I oversee business operations to ensure internal workflows and external engagements align seamlessly with the ever-changing demands of our industry and market landscape. As a liaison between finance, legal, and development teams, I foster collaborative efforts that drive innovation and efficiency. Notably, I've led the automation of project reception processes, significantly boosting operational efficiency and productivity at the studio.

What inspired you to pursue a career in the entertainment industry?

My career in entertainment stems from a deep-seated love for performance and television's power to connect.

I've always been captivated by entertainment, starting with childhood dreams of acting, dancing, and singing. Television fascinated me from a young age, a passion I carried with me from my home country, Venezuela. Moving to the U.S. heightened my enthusiasm as I pursued acting and led a band called “Insignia.” Later, I joined a talent agency, which provided me with invaluable insights into entertainment and my first introduction to Telemundo. In 2004, I officially became part of the Telemundo team.

Over the past 15+ years, I've amassed diverse experience — from freelancing in commercials, reality shows, and music videos to roles in talent management and distribution at NBCUniversal. Each challenge, starting from junior positions to now managing development in Telemundo Studios' Business Operations, has fueled my growth. The industry's compelling nature continues to inspire me every day.

What does language accessibility and representation mean to you?

Language accessibility and representation mean ensuring that everyone, regardless of their language proficiency or abilities, can access information and participate fully in society. It's about breaking down barriers so individuals can understand, engage with, and contribute to content in their preferred language.

Here in the United States, providing content in languages like Spanish is crucial. Doing so ensures that Spanish-speaking communities can access essential information and resources, facilitating their integration and engagement within broader society.

When we prioritize language accessibility and representation, we’re not just reaching more people – we’re promoting equity and inclusivity in communication. It's not just about language; it's about affirming everyone's right to be heard and understood, creating a more connected and inclusive community where diverse voices are valued and respected.

Why is diversity, equity, and inclusion important to you personally and in the work you do?

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are core values that deeply resonate with me. I believe in creating spaces where everyone feels respected and valued, regardless of their background. Professionally, in my role within Streaming and Content Platforms, embracing diversity allows us to produce content that authentically connects with a wide audience. For example, offering content in both English and Spanish ensures accessibility and inclusivity for diverse viewers.

Working at NBCUniversal has exposed me to a rich tapestry of cultures and languages, reinforcing the importance of celebrating diverse perspectives. This diversity enriches our content and fosters innovation and creativity within our team. Inclusion is not just about representation but about creating a workplace where every voice is heard, and contributions are recognized. Ultimately, prioritizing DE&I is integral to the success and sustainability of our work in creating compelling and accessible entertainment content.

As media trends shift from cable television toward streaming, what kind of opportunities does this shift create for amplifying diverse voices? 

Streaming platforms allow for tailored content consumption, enabling viewers to discover and engage with a wide range of perspectives that may have been overlooked in traditional media. These platforms also facilitate the creation and promotion of original content with a range of diverse voices.

By reaching global audiences more effectively, streaming services promote cultural exchange and understanding on a broader scale. Overall, this transition enables creators and storytellers to share their narratives authentically, contributing to a more inclusive media landscape.

What is currently your favorite content to consume, and what do you see for the future of Hispanic media? 

Currently, my favorite content to consume spans across various platforms, with a particular fondness for Telemundo dramas like "La Reina del Sur." The gripping narrative and strong character development in shows like this captivate me.

Looking ahead, the future of Hispanic media appears promising and dynamic. Streaming platforms continue to play a pivotal role in expanding access to diverse Hispanic content globally. As technology evolves and streaming services diversify their content offerings, I anticipate seeing even more original Hispanic series and films that not only entertain but also enrich cultural understanding and representation. This evolution promises to further elevate Hispanic media on the global stage, making it an integral part of the entertainment landscape.