Published on September 1st, 2024 | by Dr. Jerry Doby

Diversity and Inclusion: Diego Ávalos’ Vision for Netflix’s Original Content

Diego Ávalos has always believed that the stories we tell should reflect our world. As the Vice President of Original Content at Netflix in Spain and Nordics, Ávalos has made it his mission to ensure that the streaming giant’s productions embody the values of diversity and inclusion on-screen and behind the scenes. His innovative initiatives have set a new standard in the industry, distinguishing Netflix from traditional Hollywood models and fostering a more inclusive approach to storytelling.

A Career Dedicated to Authentic Storytelling

Diego Ávalos’ journey with Netflix began with a vision to revolutionize European content creation. With a background that spans various facets of the entertainment industry, Ávalos brought a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to Netflix. His career has been marked by a dedication to finding and nurturing authentic voices, a commitment that is evident in his approach to original content at Netflix.

Under Ávalos’ leadership, Netflix has not just embraced but excelled with its hyperlocal strategy, focusing on finding stories deeply rooted in specific cultures and communities. This approach has not only led to the creation of globally successful series like “La Casa de Papel” (Money Heist) but also reinforced the importance of authenticity in storytelling. Ávalos’ commitment to diversity and inclusion is a natural extension of this philosophy, ensuring that Netflix’s content reflects its audience’s varied experiences and perspectives.

“We believe that the more specific a story is, the more universal its appeal becomes,” Ávalos explains. “By focusing on hyperlocal narratives, we can connect human emotions and experiences in a way that resonates globally.”

Championing Gender Diversity

Diego Ávalos’ strategy at Netflix is marked by his unwavering commitment to gender diversity, a significant aspect that inspires hope for a more inclusive future in the audiovisual industry. Recognizing the historically male-dominated nature of the industry, Ávalos has implemented several initiatives to promote gender equality and empower female creators. A prime example of this commitment is the female director shadow program, designed to nurture the next generation of female directors by providing them with the mentorship and opportunities they need to succeed.

The impact of Ávalos’ efforts is evident in productions like “Valeria,” a modern rom-com set in Madrid. Based on a bestselling book by Elísabet Benavent, the series was adapted by a female showrunner and produced by a team where 57% of department heads and 50% of the crew were women. This level of gender representation is unprecedented in the industry and highlights Ávalos’ dedication to creating a more inclusive production environment.

“Gender diversity is not just about numbers; it’s about creating an environment where diverse perspectives are valued and integrated into the storytelling process,” Ávalos notes. “Our goal is to ensure that our content reflects our world and that everyone can see themselves represented on screen.”

Ávalos’ focus on gender diversity extends beyond individual projects. By fostering an environment that values and promotes female talent, he is helping to shift the industry’s dynamics, creating opportunities for women to take on leadership roles and drive creative processes. This approach enriches the storytelling and sets a powerful example for other studios and production companies. Ávalos achieves this by actively seeking out and promoting diverse voices, providing mentorship and support, and creating opportunities for them to showcase their talent.

Embracing Cultural and Linguistic Diversity

Diego Ávalos’ vision for Netflix is not limited to gender diversity but also cultural and linguistic diversity. He believes that stories should be told in the languages and cultural contexts in which they are set, allowing for a more genuine and resonant connection with audiences. This approach has been instrumental in Netflix’s success across diverse markets, with a significant portion of its content being produced in local languages.

Ávalos’ strategy is exemplified by the production of “Criminal,” a series that features versions set in Germany, France, the UK, and Spain. Each version was directed by local talent and filmed in Madrid, showcasing the technical expertise of Spanish crews while highlighting the unique cultural contexts of each country. This method of production emphasizes the importance of cultural authenticity and recognizes the invaluable contribution of local talent in creating stories that transcend linguistic barriers and resonate with a global audience.

“Language and culture are integral to storytelling,” Ávalos says. “By producing content in local languages and cultural contexts, we can create stories that are both authentic and universally appealing.”

By prioritizing local language productions and ensuring accessibility through dubbing and subtitling, Ávalos has enabled Netflix to cater to diverse audiences worldwide. His efforts have shown a vast appetite for stories that reflect the rich tapestry of human experiences, and that cultural and linguistic diversity can be a powerful asset in the storytelling arsenal.

Setting a New Standard in Inclusive Storytelling

Diego Ávalos’ commitment to diversity and inclusion has set a new standard in the entertainment industry. His initiatives, such as the female director shadow program and the hyperlocal strategy, have significantly increased representation both on screen and behind the camera. For instance, the series ‘Valeria’ was adapted by a female showrunner and produced by a team where 57% of department heads and 50% of the crew were women. These efforts have contributed to more authentic and resonant storytelling. By championing gender diversity, embracing cultural and linguistic diversity, and fostering an environment where diverse voices can thrive, Ávalos has positioned Netflix as a leader in inclusive content creation.

The success of Ávalos’ strategy is evident in the growing portfolio of Netflix originals that have captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. From the deeply personal narratives of “Sintonia” to the universally relatable themes of “Las Chicas del Cable,” the stories produced under his guidance resonate with viewers from all walks of life.

As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, Diego Ávalos’ vision for Netflix is a powerful reminder of the importance of diversity and inclusion in storytelling. His efforts have enriched the content available to viewers and paved the way for a more inclusive and representative future in media. By staying true to his belief in the power of authentic storytelling, Ávalos ensures that Netflix remains at the forefront of the industry, creating content that speaks to its global audience’s diverse experiences and aspirations.

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Tags: Diego Ávalos, diversity and inclusion, Netflix, original content

About the Author

Dr. Jerry Doby Editor-in-Chief of The Hype Magazine, Media and SEO Consultant, Journalist, Ph.D. and retired combat vet. 2023 recipient of The President's Lifetime Achievement Award. Partner at THM Media Group. Member of the U.S. Department of Arts and Culture, the United States Press Agency and ForbesBLK.