A Voice Born of Heritage and Vision
Maria Paula Sabogal Guerrero’s story begins in Colombia, but it’s far from confined there. Now based in New York City, she is a business owner, actor, singer, and writer whose work reflects a deep connection to her cultural roots and a bold drive to build something new. Her company,
RAÍCES Productions LLC, is a mission in motion as well as theater and performances to uplift marginalized voices and transform storytelling into a space of healing, representation, and social change.
The name “RAÍCES,” meaning “roots,” captures Maria Paula’s creative ethos. It honors the people and places that shaped her, while reaching toward a future where stories from women, immigrants, and Latinx communities are not just told, but heard, felt, and celebrated.
Building Dreams Across Borders
From a young age,
Maria Paula dreamed of becoming an actor, despite many doubting her ability to make it. Yet little by little, she won over those around her: family, friends, and peers who saw her persistence and began to believe in the dream, too.
Her move to the United States marked a turning point. She arrived in New York alone, with only iconic landmarks like Central Park and Grand Central Station in her mind. She didn’t know anyone, but she knew why she was there. She trained at the renowned Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute, where she found encouragement, mentorship, and the tools to shape her craft.
From Student to Storyteller
Maria Paula’s journey from actor to author and producer came naturally. She quickly began writing her own stories, including a short film nominated at Bogotá’s Smart Films Festival. Another self-written and produced piece earned a nomination at the Strasberg Film Festival, an early affirmation of her voice and vision.
What followed were major collaborations: campaigns with Hilton, Peloton, and FUD USA’s Latino heritage project; work on large-scale productions like Happy Gilmore 2 and Caught Stealing; and a recent project with Karol G’s Bichota Films for the Papasito music video. Every set became a classroom, expanding her understanding of the industry and her place within it.
Creating a Platform for Others
RAÍCES Productions was born from Maria Paula’s desire to go beyond personal success. She founded the company to tell stories that restore dignity and spark conversation, especially those often left out of mainstream media. RAÍCES supports women who have experienced marginalization, discrimination, or violence, offering them a space to be seen, heard, and empowered through art.
The company’s approach to production emphasizes ethics, collaboration, and representation. Maria Paula works not only as a creator but as a mentor and connector, closing the gap between storytelling and community healing.
Lessons from the Journey
Behind the success are very real challenges. From adjusting to cultural norms and food to navigating financial stress and the loneliness of living abroad, Maria Paula’s experience is one of grit and growth. One of her biggest lessons? Mental health matters. She urges others to seek support, embrace their vulnerability, and never feel ashamed to speak up. Every goal, no matter how small, can be a step toward pride and purpose.
Looking Ahead
Maria Paula sees a vibrant future for herself and RAÍCES Productions. She’s already developing new projects, hoping to collaborate with Latinx icons like Guillermo del Toro, Sofia Vergara, and John Leguizamo. Her dream is to create films, campaigns, and initiatives that blend artistry with activism and inspire the next generation of creators.
At the heart of it all, she believes that stories rooted in truth can grow across cultures and change the world.
