The Taco Bell Foundation is dedicated to unlocking new possibilities for Live Más Scholars, following any passion they choose. So, when the Taco Bell Foundation set out to film its new commercial, it only made sense to tap three Scholars with an inspiring passion for film, TV and cinematography to bring it to life. That’s where Belle, Alvaro and Ethan came in.
In collaboration with the Taco Bell Foundation, Taco Bell Marketing team, and the creative experts at Biite, the Scholars spent two days coordinating shots at a Taco Bell restaurant in Woodland Hills, Calif. This project was more than just a filming session; it was a hands-on learning experience. The Biite team provided invaluable mentorship, guiding the scholars through the intricacies of production and empowering them to take the lead. Belle, Alvaro and Ethan not only honed their technical skills, but were involved in every aspect of the production, including on-the-spot direction, recording voiceovers, post-production, and even acting in the commercial themselves.
While financial support is a key aspect of the Live Más Scholarship, many scholars discover that the true value lies in the community they join. By providing access to mentors, networking events, annual conferences, inspirational peers and unique microinternships – like directing and filming a nationally televised commercial– scholars gain a wealth of experiences that go far beyond the check.
The final video speaks volumes about the incredible talent these students possess. Check out the full commercial now.
You can learn more about Belle, Alvaro and Ethan and their impressive portfolios below:
| Belle W.
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Belle, hailing from the Twin Cities, is a four-year Live Más Scholarship recipient who is studying theatre and media production at the University of Northwestern – St. Paul. Passionate about creating and sharing stories that make others feel seen, Belle thrives on stage and behind the screen. She is also an entrepreneur, having developed her own health and wellness business. Belle is moving to Florida to pursue her passions via the Disney College Program and one day hopes to secure a professional job in theatre. |
| Alvaro S.
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Alvaro is a two-year Live Más Scholarship recipient studying film at the Minneapolis College of Art & Design. From a young age, he found enjoyment in filmmaking, starting with childhood movies made with friends and stop-motion animations. Now a Minnesota-based videographer, Alvaro specializes in video marketing and content creation, focusing on helping small businesses boost their visibility. He also aims to highlight his Hispanic heritage by shedding light on Mexican narratives in his work. |
| Ethan C.
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Ethan, a California native studying cinematography at Chapman University, received his first Live Más Scholarship in 2024. Striving to use his multicultural background and perspective to share compelling and transformative stories, Ethan has professional work experience as a camera assistant on several short films, commercials, music videos, television pilots and feature films. His narrative short film, “Pho”, was a YoungArts 2022 finalist, won nine awards, and was an official selection at over twenty film festivals around the world.
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The Taco Bell Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity. For more information visit www.tacobellfoundation.org.