ALACHUA COUNTY - It was something she ran away from her entire life.

But one Latina woman's trip to Cuba helped her embrace her hispanic identity.

Now, through film, she is trying to inspire other young people.

Emmy-Award nominated producer Nicole Di Rocco visited Eastside High School Wednesday to share her journey with students.

Her story is documented through her film, "Passport: Cuba-The Search for Nicolita."

That film will be the opener for Gainesville's 8th annual Latino Film Festival.

The festival, presented by the Latina Women's League, begins Thursday night at 7pm at the Harn Museum.

It runs through Saturday, October 13 and includes film screenings, folk art exhibitions, fashion displays, lectures and a Carnival.

Visit LatinaWomensLeague.org for more information about the festival.