Leandro Goddinho
Programme Lead, Film Production; Tutor, Creative Production (Film)
Leandro believes that the most captivating things in life are the unanswered questions. As creatives, we couldn’t agree more. After all, the act of creation is, in itself, an open philosophical exploration.
Originally from Brazil, Leandro worked as a director, writer and editor in cinema and TV, before turning his life around to focus on his personal filmmaking projects in 2015. His greatest ambition is to change the world – and teaching is one of the best ways to do it. In 2023, Leandro's film "Du bist so wunderbar" (co-directed with Paulo Menezes) premiered at Locarno Film Festival. The film features an all-star cast and crew of Catalyst alumni and tutors and we're very proud of the achievement!
Leandro’s favourite part of his role at Catalyst is inspiring his students and giving them a wide new range of possibilities. Alongside his duties as Film Production Programme Lead and teaching on our BA and MA Film Production programmes, Leandro lectures in the Master of Arts in Media and Visual Anthropology at HMKW Berlin.
Honesty is one of Leandro’s biggest strengths – apart from sleeping, that is. Currently learning to master mindfulness, he says his motto is “let it go, let it goooooo.” His top tip: “don't give tips to people who don't want to listen to your tips.”
What brings Leandro the most satisfaction in his life? “Doing what I want to do in a society that keeps telling you that what you are supposed to do is a blessing.” It’s no wonder he’s a big fan of Frida Kahlo's paintings, Pedro Almodovar's movies and Nina Simone's songs.