Luiza Guimaraes

Luiza Guimaraes is a senior at Columbia University’s School of General Studies, majoring in Film & Media Studies with a minor in Drama & Theatre Arts. Originally from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, she is an Afro-Brazilian comedian, filmmaker, storyteller, and military spouse whose work bridges performance, media, and communications.

Her professional experience includes roles in media and communications at the National Review Institute, the NYC Mayor’s Office of Contract Services, and Columbia University Irving Medical Center. She currently serves as Social Media Coordinator for COMBO, an initiative under Columbia Pediatrics’ department, coordinating communications and outreach for the free annual event that welcomes over 700 attendees in Washington Heights.

She has performed stand-up and improv across New York and Washington, D.C., including a showcase at the Brazilian Consulate, and trained at Upright Citizens Brigade’s improv program with scholarship support. She has also served as an Improv Instructor Assistant for the Armed Services Arts Partnership, helping military veterans and their families explore creativity through performance. On screen, she has produced short films, web series, and contributed to sketch comedy productions. On campus, she is active in the theater community, performing in plays and collaborating with peers on new work.

Luiza is dedicated to using comedy and film as tools for connection, empowerment, and social change. She is especially passionate about giving voice to underrepresented communities and continues to create work that reflects both her multicultural background and her commitment to inclusive storytelling.

She’s excited to spend this year finalizing her new comedy and film club, Sloth Motion, at Columbia and connecting with the GS community through the Student Council. After graduation, her goal is to bring her creativity and voice to the world of television. And when she’s not performing or creating, she is learning tennis, playing video games, discussing how awesome Brazil is, or chasing the sunshine, as summer is her favorite season.