In 1997, he became a part of the team at ATV as a master controller. "As a child, I wanted to make films. Steven Spielberg's movie 'E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial' inspired me. I was experimenting with a VHS camera and editing sketches using two VHS players. In 1997, I had a conversation with Mrs. Belquis Moreu, my neighbor, who recommended that I go study, but also try to work in the audiovisual field to see if that's really what I wanted to do. My first day of work at ATV as a master controller was during the big Carnival parade in Playa," Juan Francisco recounts.

Juan Francisco's experience at ATV was a confirmation of what he wanted to do. "I was like a kid in a candy store. I took advantage of all the opportunities that were given to me and worked in different departments, from master controller to technical director, evening news director, and editor. I accumulated so much experience that it fueled my desire to study the audiovisual field even further." Juan Francisco chose Spain and the Netherlands, where he studied Film Direction and Audiovisual Production.

While all the knowledge he gained at ATV facilitated his studies in Spain in the field of television, film was something entirely new.

"In 1992, at the age of fourteen, I wrote my first script, 'Ciudad Oraño.' Going to study in Spain was important for me so that I could produce my script. When I finished my studies in Spain, I decided to return to Aruba to execute 'Ciudad Oraño.' It didn't work out, instead, I made a shorter version called 'E Secreto.' I realized it was better to continue expanding my knowledge. I considered going back to Spain, but in the end, I chose the Netherlands. In 2003, I went to the Netherlands and studied graphic and interactive media design. In 2007, when I completed my studies, I felt the time had come to return to Aruba and start creating an Aruban film culture."

Near me, this is how it starts: with a pitch of the idea, which I often share with people I know or record on my phone. I write my scripts following the three acts: Setup, Confrontation, and Resolution. I outline scenes for each act and create biographies for my main characters. Once I have all of this, I start writing my script. Preparing for production is more intensive. I begin by breaking down the script, listing all the scenes, characters, and props. Then I proceed to plan the production, describing the duration of filming, schedule, scenes, locations, actors, and props. Duration is important because it helps me create a budget. With a budget in place, I move on to the next stage, which is seeking funding to realize the film. Once the funding is there, casting begins, followed by all other necessities."

Juan Francisco Pardo is a strong advocate for making films in Papiamento. His films have been presented at international film festivals with Papiamento scripts and English subtitles. These films introduce and promote the island's language on a global stage, preserving and celebrating Aruba's linguistic and cultural identity. "Films in Papiamento keep our language alive."

"We lack resources - money, materials, and knowledge. One way to access some of these resources is by creating incentives to attract international productions that use Aruba as a backdrop for filming international movies. At the same time, it promotes the Aruban product through these films.

Trinidad & Tobago is one of the islands already doing this and offers a 35% cashback plus an additional 20% if they hire local talent. This not only creates jobs but also helps locals gain more knowledge in the field. Over time, companies specializing in providing specific services to film productions will emerge, filling the gap for production materials and specialized personnel in various film departments. Money remains a delicate topic because making films is expensive. The good news is that now Aruba can also apply for subsidies from the Dutch Film Fund. The best way to support local production is by going to watch local films in cinemas. Part of the ticket revenue goes to the filmmakers, which can help in making another film."