Malissa Cruz Romero is a versatile storyteller, engaging audiences as a writer, actor, and director in both television and film. Her creative journey is deeply rooted in a passionate commitment to social justice causes. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and History from Vanguard University, where she served as President of Live2Free, a college organization dedicated to combating human trafficking in Orange County. In this role, Malissa tirelessly advocated for the rights of Latino individuals who were unlawfully employed on large farms, championing their dignity and fair treatment.
Following her college tenure, Malissa transitioned into the role of a Community Organizer, focusing her efforts on empowering Latino LGBTQ+ families in Los Angeles. Leveraging her diverse background and experiences, she served as a vital liaison between these marginalized communities and the broader societal landscape, fostering understanding and dialogue to drive positive change.
After years of impactful grassroots activism, Malissa embarked on a new journey to expand her horizons and push her boundaries. Transitioning into the field of software engineering, she sought to explore the intersection of technology and creativity. In this new domain, Malissa discovered that the same attributes that fueled her activism—creativity, problem-solving, and perseverance—were equally invaluable in navigating the complexities of software systems. This transition not only broadened her skill set but also deepened her understanding of how technology can be wielded as a tool for social change and empowerment.
Today, based in Baltimore, Maryland, Malissa Cruz Romero continues to pursue her artistic passions, actively participating in local theater productions in both lead and supporting roles. Additionally, by day, she serves as marketing manager for an ice sculpture business, she owns with her husband. In this capacity, Malissa oversees the company's social media presence, producing and curating captivating video and photo content for marketing materials.