Alex Palafox was born and raised in Modesto, California. As a proud member of the LGBT+ community, Alex has a passion for all things nerdy and artistic, while also enjoying the opportunity to meet and connect with people from all walks of life.
A fun fact about Alex is that he is a raver, so living by P.L.U.R.—Peace, Love, Unity, and Respect—is an important part of who he is. Inclusivity is at the heart of Alex’s mission, with a commitment to creating spaces where everyone feels seen, valued, welcomed, and empowered to participate.
Francisco “Frisco” Gutierrez is the founder and executive director of the Culture and Fandom Collective (CFC) and show director of CulturaCon. Proud of his Latino roots and identity as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, Frisco is passionate about creating inclusive spaces where culture, creativity, fandom, and community come together.
A lifelong Sacramento-area resident, small business owner, and cancer survivor, Frisco brings experience in event production, volunteer coordination, convention operations, and community engagement. Through CFC, he works to support artists, makers, entrepreneurs, and volunteers while creating opportunities for people to develop practical skills and become future event leaders.
Frisco founded CFC to help underrepresented communities feel seen, celebrated, and connected, and to build events where everyone feels welcome to participate, create, and belong.
Jaime Ontiveros is the Treasurer of the Cultural and Fandom Collective. A passionate fan of anime, Broadway, and cosplay, Jaime believes it is important to create a welcoming space where creatives can come together, connect, and share their passions.
Secretary of CFC
Michelle, also known as Misha Rios, is a dedicated member of the Cultural and Fandom Collective (CFC). She has been cosplaying for six years and is well known for spreading joy by giving out stickers and goodies to fellow fans and creatives. Misha loves bringing happiness to others and enjoys helping people pursue their passions and succeed in achieving their dreams.
Board member of CFC
Francisco “FEZ” Mendez is originally from Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico, and was raised in Turlock, California. As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, FEZ embraces creativity, self-expression, and individuality. Artistically inclined, he has a passion for all things art, gaming, and entertainment.
Fun Fact: FEZ has a Latin drag persona that is driven by glamour, with a unique nod to cosplay culture, 80s camp, and horror.