‘I came here to La Toba from my homeland, Mazatlán. We travelled by ferry, arrived in La Paz, and then came to the Santo Domingo Valley in one of the lorries they called “desert conquerors,” as they were the only ones available. I was 19 at the time.’
How did the La Toba International Film Festival come about? We attended a film festival in San Antonio, and while there, I thought, “Son, we can organize a festival in La Toba.” We got excited about the idea, and upon our return, we dedicated ourselves to planning our f irst festival with great enthusiasm.
He invited individuals and provided everything; it was amicable, although many guests didn’t trust him since they had only recently returned to town.
He clearly stated, “I’m here to do something for my town, and that’s all. Anyone who wants to support me is welcome to do so, and those who don’t are fine too. I’m not involved in politics or religion; I see everyone as equals.” That was his mindset, and the town embraced it. He invited all the schools, and everyone participated joyfully. It was a significant event.
Maria, how do you feel about participating in this festival with your son?
It’s very satisfying to see Enoch succeed, especially since no one is a prophet in their own land. We are preparing for the third festival, God willing, and everything is progressing well. This time, he mentioned that the theme will be wrestling, which is very exciting for people since there’s nothing like that here.
What message would you like to convey to the community?
Keep dreaming and moving forward. As long as you have strength and life, you must continue. We invite all young people to the next festival, and yes, you can! Arriba La Toba!
We admire your wall of fame dedicated to your family, especially your son, Enoc. We enjoyed all those photos of him getting married, playing Pancho Villa, and at his wedding.
What would you say to your son? He will always have my support, and we will continue to move forward together. I am very proud of you for sharing the gifts that God has given you with all your people. I admire the gratitude you feel for your land. They say that those who do not love their mother do not truly love their homeland.
My son, I am incredibly proud of you. My greatest pride is that you have shared your life with your loved ones, especially those who witnessed your birth. Here in your village, you continue to move forward.
Tell us about it, because I heard that you are the star of the film.
Yes, the film is called ” At 77, I Tasted Salt Water.” Well, at 77 years old, I’m going to be the star! Let me share my story. My grandson is a professional diver, and he was the one who trained me to dive. First, he taught me in a pool, and then we moved on to the sea. Unfortunately, we were unable to complete our training due to the arrival of a hurricane, which forced us to stop.
Last year, the water was freezing the entire time, and he said, ‘No, the water is too cold for my grandmother; we can’t continue. So, God willing, if everything goes well, we’ll finish it this year.’
How does it feel to be the star of a film?
No one should let their age hold them back. Saying, “I’m too old” or “It’s too late for me” is not the way to live. You must know how to live and embrace life.
Making this film with my grandson is a true gift. He had an accident in which he broke a rib and punctured his lung, leading him to believe he would never be able to dive again. This experience resulted in his feeling quite depressed.
When he was ready to dive again, he asked me, “Would you like to go diving?” People know I taught my grandmother so that they would trust me again.
The challenge arose when the hurricane struck, halting our progress and leaving us halfway through the project. Yet, we found the renewed determination to pick it up again. This project represents a milestone for my 77th birthday, and we are committed to completing it this year, God willing!
