Meet the Team

Every great story starts with a vision. Whether it’s empowering young creatives, building pathways to careers, or using film to uplift communities — our team is here to make that vision a reality. Get to know the dedicated leaders behind the Media Arts Institute.

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  • Founder

    Mario Bobino is a veteran filmmaker with over four decades of experience in the industry. Since founding Debonair Productions in 1989, he has produced and directed more than 100 film and video projects, building a reputation for creative excellence and community-focused storytelling.
    Born and raised in Oakland, CA, Bobino brings a deep understanding of both the technical and cultural aspects of filmmaking, making him a powerful force in youth mentorship and media education.

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  • Chief Financial Officer

    Shirley Sharp oversees the financial health and sustainability of the Media Arts Institute with strategic precision and care. As CFO, she ensures that budgets, grants, and donations are managed with transparency, accountability, and long-term impact in mind. Her expertise in financial planning supports the organization’s mission to remain accessible and community-driven. Shirley is deeply committed to using financial stewardship to create opportunities for young creatives.

  • Event Organizer and Promoter

    Erroll Jackson joins the team with more than 50 years of leadership and proven influence in the entertainment industry. A seasoned producer and executive, Jackson has produced four major studio films in Los Angeles and has built enduring relationships with top recording artists and leading comedians. He brings strategic vision, deep industry connections, and a track record of delivering high-profile, commercially successful projects. Jackson’s leadership will accelerate our creative development and expand our access to talent and studio partnerships.
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  • Secretary

    Barbara serves as Secretary of the Media Arts Institute, bringing sharp organizational insight and a meticulous attention to detail. Committed to transparency and clear communication, she manages records, minutes, and board correspondence with precision and integrity. Her focus on structure and accountability ensures the organization remains aligned with its mission and long-term goals. Barbara is also a devoted advocate for youth access to creative education and community-based programming.

  • Board Member
    A Bay Area native and 20-year radio veteran, “Yo Girl” Delores began performing with the City of Oakland’s Parks & Recreation department as a child. Fresh out of high school she earned a coveted position with Oakland’s Soul Beat entertainment television, where she quickly became a dominant voice in programming and entertainment reporting.

    After relocating to Los Angeles, Delores built her radio career across several stations before embarking on a 15-year run at Stevie Wonder’s 102.3 KJLH-FM. There she was featured in Who’s Who in Black LA and crowned “Southern California’s #1 Lady in the Mid-Day.”

    Returning to the Bay Area, Delores — mother, minister, motivational speaker, and Executive Director of her nonprofit Sista Girl Network — launched KOSA Radio, the Oakland School for the Arts’ inaugural online broadcast station. She established the school’s broadcast department and continues to share her decades of experience through volunteer work at Oakland’s Youth Radio.

    Describing the station, Ms. Thompson says: “Our 24-hour programming blends music and talk for listeners aged 12 and up. Our slogan says it best: Where Minds, Words, Music & Rhymes Meet.”