Dr. RAQUEL V. BENITEZ ROJAS, MAC, MBA, CMP
Award Winning Entertainment Executive/ Cinematography, Broadcasting, Animation, Digital Media, Design, Communication, Art, Metaverse, Artificial Intelligence, Researcher /University Professor.
Professional for 37 years of animation film production.
Have a team of research collaborators who Raquel works with.
ACADEMIC LEADERSHIP
I have developed curriculum, created programs and courses for several universities and colleges. I have also taught and being invited at some of the most prestigious institutions around the world such as: Centennial College (Canada), Humber College (Canada)Louisiana State University (USA), University of Teesside (UK), Kennedy College (Canada), Max the Mutt College (Canada), Digital Media Studios (Canada), Universitat de Les Illes Balears (Balearic Islands, Spain), Universidad de Las Palmas, (Canary Islands), International Investigation Computer Science Center (Las Palmas, Canary Islands), Universidad Complutense de Madrid (Spain), Universidad Miguel Hernández (Spain), University of Technology (Jamaica), Programa de Aceleracion Naranja (Costa Rica), Toronto Film School (Canada), Vocational Training Development Institute (VTDI) & Information Communication and Technology (ICT), Ministry of Education, (Jamaica), ABU, (Malaysia), Universidad Latino Americana de Ciencia y Tecnología, (Costa Rica), San Marc, (Spain), Humber College (Canada), Universidad Nacional de Chimborazo(Ecuador).
• Fluent in Spanish, basic knowledge of Italian and French.
EDUCATION
2023
Certificated Metaverse Professional (CMP)
2023
Certificate in Artificial Intelligence by Google (WebML101)
2023
Certificate in Artificial Intelligence by IBM
Certificate in Artificial Intelligence by IBM
2022
PhD in Cinematography, Broadcasting, Communications, Animation and Media by Universidad Complutense de Madrid. Thesis’ title: Analysis and structure of the sources of inspiration, of the historical, narrative, productive, artistic, symbolic, and technological aspects in the Golden Age of Walt Disney Studios feature films (1937-1942). with the grade of EXCELLENT “CUM LAUDE”.
2021
Creative techniques in classroom and applied training. Mediacollege Amsterdam
2019
Certificate in Entertainment Law at Osgoode Hall Law School at York University, Canada.
2017
Certified Trainer CLM (Creating a Life that Matters).
2011
Master in Business Administration by Universidad de Barcelona.
1993
Master’s degree in Cinematography, Broadcasting and Communications by Universidad Complutense de Madrid.
1991
Bachelor’s degree in Cinematography, Broadcasting and Communications by Universidad Complutense de Madrid.
1991
Certificate in English and Broadcasting by University of South Florida.
1991
Certificate in Computer Animation by Universidad de Barcelona.
1991
Certificate in Creative Advertisement by Universidad Complutense de Madrid.
1990
Certificate in Advanced Television, terrestrial digital tv by Universidad Internacional Menéndez Pelayo.
1985
Certificate in Cinematography montage techniques by Centro Insular de Cultura.
1985
Certificate in Video by Centro Insular de Cultura
1985
Certificate in Film Production by Centro Insular de Cultura.
1985
Certificate in Language and techniques of videographic support by Centro Insular de Cultura.
1985
Certificate in Broadcasting programing by Centro Insular de Cultura.
1985
Certificate in Art & Technologies by Fundación Arte y Tecnología.
AWARDS
2014- MCC Toronto Vision Alive Award
2006- CCR-Best movie script for “Coolcity”
2005- Best short SGAE for “Sculpture Club”
1999- Honorable Mention for “Adventures on Wheels”
1998 – First Price MIDIA´98 to the best animation series for “The New World of the gnomes”.
1996 - Second Price “The Princes’ Award from the Environmental European Agency”. (Sponsored by the Spanish Prince Felipe de Borbon and the Danish Prince Federico) for “El Mundo de Cubi” (Cubi’s World).
1995 - First Price NATURAMA’95 from ICONA for “El Mundo de Cubi”
1994 - First Price B.R.B. David, the Gnome with “El Mundo de Cubi”
PUBLICATIONS
Articles for international media publications.
Writer of several research studies and articles for international media publications such as: Infographic Systems, Los derechos de los niños y las niñas, The Future of Animation, British Cinema, Global Animation, Norman McLaren. The Canadian Master, etc.
Articles Published in 2021:
- Without a Commercial Vision: Film Competitions Specializing in Animation in Spain. Book Chapter.
- The Prosumers Revolution: Youtubers and Instagramers. Book Chapter.
Articles Published in 2022:
-Farewell to beloved Animation History and Teacher Giannalberto Bendazzi for Animation Magazine, USA.
-Quirino Cristiani and the first animated feature films in history. From Argentina to the world. Academic Journal Media Studies and Applied Ethics. Republic of Serbia.
-My health is the main capital I have, Creativity and Stress. Book Chapter
-The Cryptoart: cryptocurrencies, blockchain and artificial intelligence. Book Chapter
-The vision of Francoism: How to build the perfect woman, actresses and female representation.Web article.
-Culture, Economy and Education: New Challenges in the Digital Society. Book Chapter
Articles Published in 2023:
-Social Networks, Fake News, and the Right to Information. Chapter in a book.
-Evolution and Dynamics of Intellectual Property in Social Media. Chapter in a book.
-Queer Cinema Genesis, Evolution, and the Renaissance on Digital Media Platforms. Chapter in a book.
-New Proposals in the Definition, Origin, and Evolution of Animation. (to be published at: History of Media Studies).
-Symbolism in the Walt Disney Studios Feature Film, Show White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937). Miguel Hernández Communication Journal.
Articles to be written between 2023-2025:
-Origin and evolution of the animated films from 1917 to 1942, The Golden age.
-Artistic Influences on Walt Disney Studios' Golden Age of Animated Feature Films (1937-1942).
-Symbolism in the Walt Disney Studios Feature Film, Pinocchio (1940).
-Symbolism in the Walt Disney Studios Feature Film, Dumbo (1941) & Bambi (1942).
-Aristotle, Chatman, Campbell and Propov and the Elements of Narrative Theory Applied to the Golden Age of Walt Disney Studios Feature Films (1937-1942).
-Comparative study between the original versions and the adaptations made by the Walt Disney Studio in its golden age (1937-1942).
-Evolution, context and comparative analysis in international Film and TV co-productions.
PUBLISHED BOOKS
2004
El Proceso de la Animacion/ The Animation Process, first of its kind in Spanish (being translated now into English), that details all the production process from the idea until the finished product is ready. ISBN:0-9733158-0-6
2020
Production 101 ISBN: 0919852785
2021
La revolución de los prosumers: youtubers e instagramers/ The prosumers revolution: youtubers and instagramers. Chapter. ISBN: 979-84-18167-56-0
2021
The new narrative in the digital age. Origin, evolution, and contributions to the new media - Chapter. ISBN: 978-84-15665-70-0
2022
Comunicación, pantallas y ficción Chapter: Without commercial vision: film competitions specialized in animation in Spain (Sin visión comercial: Certámenes cinematográficos especializados en animación en España). ISBN 978-84-1124-251-6
2022
Cultura, economía y educación: nuevos desafíos en la sociedad digital. Chapter: Origin, Evolution and Analysis of Production Processes in Animation (Origen, Evolución Y Análisis De Los Procesos Productivos en la Animación). ISBN 978-84-1377-585-2
2022
The vision of Francoism: How to build the perfect woman, actresses and female representation. Chapter. ISBN: 978-84-09-35499-3
2022
My health is the main capital I have, Creativity and Stress. Chapter: Complexities and Strategies of Occupational Stress in the Dynamic Business. ISBN 9781668439371 (hardcover) | ISBN 9781668439395 (ebook)
2022
The emergence of new narratives in the Digital Society (“La eclosión de las nuevas narrativas en la Sociedad Digital). Chapter: The Cryptoart: cryptocurrencies, blockchain and artificial intelligence (El Criptoarte: criptomonedas, blockchain e inteligencia artificial) ISBN 978-84-18167-81-2
2023
The future of Communications: The Metaverse. Routledge. ISBN: 1032458844.
2023
Editor for the Miguel Hernández Communication Journal monograph, CFP- Algorithms, AI and automation in Communication/Algoritmos, IA y automatización en comunicación. Vol.14 (2).
2024 (UPCOMING)
At the present time I am writing a book about Impacts of Artificial Intelligence on Communication (working title) for 2024.
RESEARCHER AT
Una Europa (an alliance of eight European universities)
U-TAD
Scientific corrector & editor for Miguel Hernandez Communication Journal
Scientific corrector for Comunicación y Métodos
Scientific corrector for Profesional de la Información
Scientific corrector for the book Discussing Disney ISBN: 0 86196 719 3
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
2023- Universidad Nacional de Chimborazo, Ecuador
Guest professor
2022 -2023 Humber College, Canada
Program Coordinator and Faculty
2022 - Universidad Latinoamericana de Ciencia y Tecnología, Costa Rica
Professor and Developer of the Animation Master
2021- 2022 - San Marc Animation Master, Spain
Director and Developer of the Animation Master Professor of: Introduction, development, and history of animation. The script, narrative, and cinematographic language in animation. Co-production, Distribution, and markets.
2021- 2022 - San Marc Video Games Master, Spain
Professor of Animation Production
2021-2022 - Centennial College, Canada
Professor of Film Art in the Internet Age
2021 - Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union, Malaysia
Professor of From Script to screen, how to develop outstanding children's content.
Professor of Key markets or how to be involved in the international scene.
2020-2021 - University of Yorkville, NB- Toronto Film School, Canada
Professor of Production and Production Management
2020-present - Vocational Training Development Institute (VTDI) & Information Communication and Technology (ICT), Ministry of Education, Jamaica
Advisory Committee Department’s Associate of Science Degree in Animation
2019-2022 - Centennial College, Canada
Professor of Children's Media
2019-2022 - Vicechair Centennial College Children's Media Program Advisory Committee, Canada
2016-2021 - Centennial College, Canada
Professor of International Coproduction FTVB 715
2016-2021 - Centennial College, Canada
Professor of International Distribution FTVB 717
2000-2001 - Digital Media Studios, Canada
Professor Animation 2D & 3D
FOUNDER
-Radio Station, Radio Pisquito FM 103.
-COMPANIES:
Choice, Comet Entertainment Inc, Huge Dog Media, Vitamin Cartoons Inc, Duna Film International Inc.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
2001 – 2022- Comet Entertainment Inc. Canada, CEO, Producer, Executive Producer, Business Development
-Development and implementation of financial and creative strategies according to knowledge of Canadian and global markets.
-In charge of Company’s brand, in advertising, promos, etc.
-Overseeing development and acquisition of new projects
-Management production/ sales.
-Development of financial models, deal structures and financing details.
-Acquiring and selling content to Canadian, USA, and global markets, licensors and distribution partners.
-Active involvement in the hiring process and team building.
-Key account/ financial management for partners and clients within Canada and overseas
-Acting as company's ambassador in the Canadian and International markets.
-Organize and manage all the different production departments.
-Ensuring creative vision from development into production.
-Evaluating products to assess and assign cost of production.
-Producer and in some cases director of the company productions, supervising all the different aspects of production.
-Managing of projects from the idea, pre- production through postproduction to final delivery in budget and schedule.
-Establishing and defining production planning process including financing, monitoring, scheduling, and budgeting, overseeing staff in report making for clients.
-Identifying and implementing the production resources necessary to support projects.
-Active involvement in the hiring process and team building.
-Mentoring junior members and supporting senior management.
-Flagging potential problems and proactively designing and seeking solutions to fix them, ensuring project milestones and deadlines are met.
-Inspiring, motivating and maximizing team communication.
-Formulating and implementing the strategic plan that guides the direction of the business.
-Managing marketing opportunities for the organization.
-Development of public relations, marketing strategies and directing marketing team to meet the goals.
-Overseeing the complete operation of the organization in accordance with the direction established in the strategic plans. This includes the design of the organization in a manner that facilitates and supports the operations.
2000-2001- Nikolai.com-Canada & USA, Senior Vice President and Director of Interactive Programs
-Worked with companies to develop their marketing and advertising strategies.
-Producer, Managing of all digital and interactive programs.
-Created and supported media for various clients working in different project and teams at the same time.
-Empowered and supported team members to take leadership roles.
-Managed day-to-day operations.
-Established business relationships with companies.
-Managed projects since inception until full completion and delivery
-Created and coordinating teams working simultaneously in different countries.
-Mentored professionals to develop their skills in the market.
-Empowered and lead employees to work for a common goal.
-Developed strategies and pipelines.
-Production and licensing deals
2000- Virtual Broadcasting Corporation - Canada Creative Director
-Coordinated the production, marketing, licensing, and customer service departments.
-Supervised the quality control processes and customer satisfaction.
-Managed the budgets and timelines and made sure deadlines were met.
1994-1998 - B.R.B International, S.A. - Spain, Head of Production / Senior Vice president of production and development
-Same as described for Comet Entertainment Inc.
1993 – 1994 - Salazar Audiovisual Productions, S.A.- Spain, Senior Vice-president of production and development & Creative Director
-Created, developed, and worked with teams in the production of various movies, tv series and commercials.
-Supervised the production and technical specifications of the projects to meet industry standards.
-Worked closely with creators and artists to assure the productions were on time and budget.
-Created the International Department dedicated to foreign companies that were doing projects with the company.
ABREVIATED LIST OF PRODUCTIONS
*2019 Co-Creator & Executive Producer “Tommy’s world”
*2019 Executive Producer & Director “Dragon Wish”
*2018 Executive Producer & Director “Venus League”
*2017 Executive Producer & Producer “Funfarm”
*2016 VP of production and development in the video game “Toby, The prince of Whales”
*2015.Executive Producer & Director. Senior Vice-President of production and development “Limo Guy”
*2014 Executive Producer, Senior Vice-President of production and development & Director “Paul, the whale”
*2013. Executive Producer and Producer & Director, Senior Vice-President of production and development “Surprise Lane”
*2013. Executive Producer and Producer & Director, Senior Vice-President of production and development “Surprise Lane”
*2012. Executive Producer & Producer, Senior Vice-President of production and development “Terry Deary's True Time Tales”
*2011 Executive Producer and Producer & Director, Senior Vice-President of production and development “Tall Hats”
*2011 Executive Producer and Producer & Director, Senior Vice-President of production and development “Chosen Girls”
*2010. Executive Producer & Producer & Co Director, Senior Vice-President of production and development “Funball”
*2009. Executive Producer & Producer & Director, Senior Vice-President of production and development, “Fantastic Tales”
*2009. Executive Producer & Producer, Senior Vice-President of production and development “Around the world for free!”
*2008- Executive Producer & Producer & Director, Senior Vice-President of production and development “Coolcity”
*2008- Executive Producer & Producer, Senior Vice-President of production and development & Co Director “Santa Vs Claus”
*2006- Executive Producer, Senior Vice-President of production and development & Co Director “Marc & Julia”
*2006- Executive Producer and Producer & Co Director, Senior Vice-President of production and development “Sex Police”
*2006- Executive Producer & Producer, Senior Vice-President of production and development “Sculpture Club”
*2005 –Executive Producer, Director & Producer “Runng Wild”
*2001- 2004- Executive Producer & Creator of several animated
*2001- Executive Producer & Creator & Director “Toby, The Prince of Whales”
*2000- Director “Totally Neow”
*1999- Director of “Adventure on wheels”
* 1997 – Director of “Mini Corazón,”. (Marta Sanchez-Albert Hammond)
* 1997 – Head of Production and Director of “Xmas Special” (75’ Home Video Feature Film).
* 1997 – Head of Production and Director of “The Amazing Journeys” (75’ Home Video Feature Film).
* 1997 – Head of Production and Director of “The New World of the Gnomes”
* 1995 - Producer and Director of “Historia de Canarias”
* 1994 - Script “Narigota” (Big Nose).
* 1993 - Script and Producer of “En Busca del Envase Perdido”.
SCHOLARSHIP
-Recipient of a scholarship by Mahidol University International College, Bangkok, Thailand
-Recipient of a scholarship by Yorkville University, Fredericton, NB, Canada
JURY
-Nomination Jury for the 2021 Youth Media Alliance English-language Awards of Excellence, Canada.
-Jury at the Kingstoon Festival, Jamaica.
MEMBER OF THE FOLLOWING ASSOCIATIONS
-WAWA – Worldwide Audiovisual Women's Association
-Canadian Picture Pioneers
-SGAE- Sociedad General de Autores y Editores de España
-EGEDA- Entidad de Gestión de Derechos de los Productores
-ECREA- European Communication Research and Education Association
-Member of Cognitive Science Society
-Editorial Board Member at the Global Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Robotics
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
-Member of the Governing Board for six years and one-year Vicechair of one of the world largest human rights organizations in the world. Among others my role was:
- Define and develop concrete, mission-critical goals.
-Provide leadership, holding staff accountable.
-Developing and revising policies and procedures or gathering baseline data.
-Understanding and developing of quantitative and qualitative evaluation methods, including the four Kirkpatrick levels, and how to apply them.
-Development of the “Cultural knowledge”, “Cultural awareness”, “Cultural sensitivity”, “Cultural competence” as advisor internally and for other groups, companies, etc.
-Regular mid-point evaluations to assess project effectiveness and adjust plan if needed.
-Develop all the international & national policies for human integration in diversity for member of different gender identifications, race, faith, sexual orientation LGBTQQIP2SAA political points of view, etc.
-Faculty and Staff Diversity Advisory Council at Yorkville University, NB, Canada.
-Co-coordinator at Dorothy’s Place.
