'Camera Ready: From Hardship to the Spotlight' Lunch and Learn

Emmy-nominated Journalist, TV host, and filmmaker Elsa E. Sevilla announces the release of her debut memoir, "Camera Ready: From Hardship to the Spotlight," now available on Barnes & Noble and Amazon. The book is online and will have book signing events across San Diego County.

After a near-fatal family emergency shattered her world and forced her family to leave Mexico, Elsa E. Sevilla had to grow up fast and learn a new language in a new country. Though deeply loved, she had few mentors outside the home—navigating every “first” as a first-generation student on her own. She wrote this book to share that journey.

Guided by quiet whispers, instinct, determination, family, and volunteerism, she found her voice and purpose. Against the odds and through hard work, Elsa became a trailblazing journalist, TV host, filmmaker, business owner, speaker—and now author. As one of fewer than 8% of Latina/o authors in the U.S. and among less than 1% of Latina filmmakers, her voice fills a vital gap in American storytelling.

"Camera Ready" is more than a personal story—it’s a call to reconnect with your roots, reclaim your identity, and live with purpose. With 35 years in television and 85 documentaries produced, Sevilla’s storytelling empowers communities to see themselves in history and live with purpose.

“This book is about turning pain into power,” says Elsa Sevilla. “It’s a reminder that our stories are meaningful. History transformed my life by helping me find where I belong. In uncovering the stories of women and people of color, I saw my own journey. History grounds us, gives us purpose, and reveals the strength we carry within. History is deeply healing.”

UPCOMING EVENTS

Upcoming events include appearances at the San Diego History Center, Hotel del Coronado, SDSU’s School of Journalism and Media Studies, MiraCosta College, MANA de San Diego’s College Success Program, KPBS, and more.