Alba Martínez, Founder
Alba Martínez is an independent producer of music and multimedia projects that celebrate the vibrant culture of Latinidad. Born and raised in Puerto Rico, Alba immersed herself in music and art from a young age, teaching herself guitar and percussion. At 19, she left the island to study law in Washington, DC, where she discovered a new cultural home within the Central and South American Latin music and artistic communities.
After choosing Philadelphia as the place to pursue her life’s dreams, Alba has dedicated almost four decades to a distinguished career as a public interest lawyer, community activist, nonprofit director, business leader and government executive. In 2020, fueled by her passion for Latin arts and culture and a commitment to expanding equal access to economic opportunity, Alba transitioned from a career as a financial services executive to focus on cultural productions and social impact projects.
Philadelphia’s Commerce Director
In January, 2024, Alba was appointed by Mayor Cherelle Parker as Philadelphia’s Commerce Director, where she works to advance inclusive economic growth for businesses, entrepreneurs, founders and communities and residents in Philadelphia.
Alba founded Ritmo Lab during the COVID-19 pandemic as a personal project to continue her creative pursuits and connect with Latino artists. Ritmo Lab produces projects that honor Latinidad—the culture that shaped her and continues to inspire her. Influenced by Puerto Rican, Mexican, Dominican, Venezuelan, Colombian, and other Latino traditions, Alba’s work reflects the rich cultural fabric of Latino Philadelphia.
La Guagua 47 (The 47 Bus)
A highlight of Alba’s work is La Guagua 47 (The 47 Bus), a short art-filled film that celebrates Philadelphia’s Latino community and engaged over 1,000 local participants throughout its production journey. The film’s 2022 premiere at the renowned downtown Kimmel Center in Philadelphia during Hispanic Heritage Month was a resounding success.