Estela Renner is a multifaceted creative force, excelling as a film director, screenwriter, producer, and co-founder of the pioneering social and environmental impact studio Maria Farinha Films, which proudly holds the distinction of being the first Latin American film production company to receive global B Corp certification.
Prior to her current endeavors, Estela spent seven years in the United States, where she earned a Master's degree in Motion Pictures from the University of Miami and honed her skills as a writer and director of sitcoms.
Upon returning to Brazil, Estela dedicated her work to promoting social and environmental change through her audiovisual creations. With an impressive portfolio of over 40 films produced, she has directed and written documentaries that have reached audiences in more than 190 countries, including the critically acclaimed films "Way Beyond Weight" and "Target Market: Kids." Both films have had a significant impact, influencing public policy changes and being watched by over two million people.
In addition to her documentary work, Estela has co-created and directed 10 episodes of the popular TV Globo series "Young Inventors," which tells the inspiring stories of underprivileged teenagers who create innovative solutions to improve their communities. The series has been viewed by more than 23 million people and has had a profound impact on the lives of its young protagonists.
As a screenwriter, Estela has penned the fiction series "Ela Faz Cinema" ("She Makes Movies") for TV Globo and the animated feature film "Lino" for Fox International.
In 2016, Estela released the documentary "The Beginning of Life," which explores the importance of human relationships in the early years of life. The film has been instrumental in UNICEF's international campaign on early childhood and has influenced maternity and paternity leave policies in several companies.
Throughout her career, Estela's work has had a profound impact on social behavior and public policies, earning her recognition from the Brazilian Foundation and Trip Transformadores. She has been a sought-after speaker at prominent events, including two editions of SXSW, Harvard University, Columbia University, MIT, House of Beautiful Business, TEDx, and FGV.
Estela is currently working on several projects, including the TV series "Aruanas," a two-season environmental thriller inspired by real events, which has garnered international attention and has been viewed by more than 33 million people in Brazil alone. She is also the author and screenwriter of the international series "Esperanza," co-produced with Participant, and "The Most Important Reality in the World," in partnership with Endemol, as well as the feature film "The Rescue."
