Even with the holiday madness upon us, we’re still making time to show up at incredible conventions. This past weekend, the talented artist and creator behind God of Bananas, Jacklyn Rinde, attended the 2025 Latino Comics Expo.
Established in 2011, the Latino Comics Expo is the premier event for connecting with Latinx and Latin American comic artists, animators, industry experts, and fans — all in collaboration with MOLAA.
This year’s convention featured amazing creators, including Rafael Navarro, who brings experience from Marvel, DC, Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, and more. Rafael even held a hands-on demonstration on storyboarding, showing attendees how to create their own comic scenes. Very cool stuff!
There was even quite a bit of buzz surrounding Tony Dawkin’s series Titan King 👀
Jackie had an incredible time at the expo and couldn’t contain her excitement. Here’s what she had to say about her experience:
“It was an eye-opening experience—seeing so many people come together to celebrate Latino comics and culture. And their excitement was contagious—let me tell you! In one corner, you’d see cosplayers dressed as superheroes with a Latino twist; in another, guests danced to salsa music outside.
As a Mexican artist myself, I’ve always been proud of my culture, but I had never been surrounded by so many people who felt the same way I did—people who lit up at the sight of a luchador or a Mayan warrior.
For a long time, I hesitated to draw my own comic. I held myself back out of fear of failure and self-doubt. I’d be crazy to start now, I told myself.
But watching fans cheer for the Aztec Batman trailer and spend long stretches talking with their favorite artists in the Artist Alley changed something in me.
These people are hungry for more Latino representation! They want more ideas, more voices added to the mix. Too crazy to start my comic now? No—I’d be crazy NOT to start now!”
– Jacklyn Rinde
Events like this are amazing to experience — blending culture, creativity, and community in one space. We love to see it!
📸 Check out some of the photos from the event below:
And if you haven’t already, don’t miss out on Jackie’s series God of Bananas — available for free on Manga Plus Creators.
One Response
That is awesome! Jackie, I am glad you went and represented the Latino comics and culture! It sounds like it was very educational and rewarding. I cannot wait to read more about your series and view your artistic talent inside the pages and storyline of your books!