Our flagship section spotlighting leaders across industries who are shaping the future.
• Alex Padilla: Page 33 California’s U.S. Senator reflects on representation and responsibility at the highest levels.
• Claudia Romo: Page 36
The social entrepreneur on elevating Latino voices and driving global impact.
• Lourdes Ramos: Page 38
A cultural leader advancing the arts and Latino heritage in the U.S. and beyond.
• Ted Cruz: Page 48
Texas’s Senator perspective on working for the people and advocacy.
• Isiah Pacheco: Page 55
From seventh-round draft pick to NFL star, Pacheco shares his rise with grit and heart.
• Leaders in Finance: age 59
Those who are leading the industry and paving the way for new generations.
• DailyPay: Page 67
A fintech reshaping how workers access and manage their earnings.
• Wendy Franco: Page 68
Highlighting her contributions in finance and her advocacy for Latino advancement.
LATINO ART LEADERSHIP
BETWEEN IMAGES AND SHADOWS - FROM SACRED ICONS TO LIVING SYMBOLS
ISABEL CREIXELL
At times, silence is louder than absence.
Isabel Creixell, the Mexican-born and Texas-based painter, has lived through such a silence—not of inactivity, but of discretion. For years, she withdrew from the exhibition circuits, yet never abandoned her sacred communion with art. Her studio remained a sanctuary, where her brush moved with quiet urgency, where she taught her craft to seekers, and where images born of history, faith, and imagination continued to blossom. In 2025, Creixell reemerges in the public eye, not as someone returning from exile, but as one who has been deep in prayer, surfacing with new visions to share.
Creixell’s work has always moved between two currents, two seemingly divergent but secretly intertwined paths. On one hand, she is a custodian of sacred art: her icons and frescos, rooted in Greco-Slavic and Russian traditions, preserve the mystical resonance of a thousand years. Each piece is a whispered echo of Byzantine monks, yet transformed by her Latin American soul. On the other hand, she explores a “realistic surrealism,” where the mundane— such as a chair—becomes a protagonist in a theater of shadows and time, speaking silently to the viewer with an eloquence that transcends objecthood.
In this duality, Creixell embodies both the intensity of devotion and the diplomacy of daily life. Her icons radiate with emotional ferocity: Madonnas whose eyes hold eternity, crucifixes that tremble with both suffering and grace, saints whose presence seems to breathe. They are not mere reproductions but living revelations. Yet in her chairs, shadows, and still-life narratives, one perceives a different strength—a quieter reflection on identity, presence, and the passage of time. These works, too, are icons, though secular: not of saints, but of existence itself.
“When I paint, I step outside the world,” she confesses in her artist statement. “My mind becomes fully absorbed, focused only on the act of creation.” Her words reveal the sacred posture of her practice. Painting is not for her an act of labor but of transcen-
dence, an act that consumes thought, emotion, and memory alike. Creixell envisions her paintings whole before they begin, yet paradoxically works with great urgency, as though time itself were conspiring with her vision. Each brushstroke is deliberate, yet alive with the impatience of someone who longs to see revelation take form.
This dialectic—between preparation and urgency, stillness and action—mirrors the tension within her oeuvre. The sacred art is timeless, held within centuries of ritual and liturgy. The chairs and shadows, however, belong to time, to the fleeting and the personal. When seen together, they form a conjunction of symbolic systems: the divine and the human, eternity and mortality.
Critics have long recognized this alchemy. Dr. Francesca Padua once described her icons as “almost a miracle,” a rebirth of Constantinople’s spiritual seeds in the unlikely soil of Texas. Dr. Paolo Rizzi of Venice remarked that Creixell does not imitate but “connects the magnificent oriental origin with the soul of a modern woman open to the present world.” Indeed, Creixell’s originality lies in her ability to bridge traditions and identities, to weave into sacred art the richness of Mexican color, Catalonian heritage, and her personal experience as wife, mother, and teacher.
It is telling that her most admired painter is René Magritte, the Belgian mas-
By William Hanhausen Courtesy of Isabel Creixell Carlos Cuevas
ter who transformed ordinary objects into portals of imagination. Creixell’s chairs, like Magritte’s pipes and bowler hats, remind us that symbols live within us, and that objects can carry the mystery of human existence. Yet where Magritte was ironic, Creixell is tender, meditative. For her, the chair is not only an object but a witness—silent, patient, dignified, much like the sacred figures in her icons.
The year 2025 marks not only her public return to create images that speak across cultures and centuries. More than 700 works already bear her name, each signed, numbered, and authenticated, each unique in its execution. Yet her triumph does not lie in numbers or accolades but in the enduring clarity of her vision. She reminds us that art is not only spectacle but sustenance, not only innovation but continuity.
As Isabel Creixell steps once more into the light of public exhibition, we witness a circle closing and another opening. The icons, with their eternal gaze, and the chairs, with their silent testimony, are no longer separate worlds. They converge in her hands as a single language—a language of faith and imagination, identity and symbol, presence and absence.
Her triumph is not merely artistic. It is existential. For in her work, we see what Rilke once described: “The artist is only a vessel through which the infinite passes.” Creixell, after years of private devotion, offers herself again as such a vessel. And we, in turn, are invited to see the invisible, to listen to silence, and to remember that art, when born of truth, never truly disappears.
THROUGHOUT my career, I have seen technology transform industries and societies—from the launch of the iPhone to the expansion of broadband and mobile networks across the Americas to the global growth of the Internet of Things. Each breakthrough reshaped how we connect, communicate, and compete. Yet the constant lesson has been this: technology succeeds only when it solves a real problem and is guided by human judgment and values.
Artificial intelligence is now reshaping our world more profoundly than any technology before it. AI will grow more capable, pervasive, and integrated into our businesses. The challenge for leaders is not to resist but to work with it. Doing so requires leaders to build teams and create values-based cultures that inspire people and drive customer-focused innovation.
THE VALUES THAT MATTER MOST Courage
Leadership means making decisions when outcomes are uncertain. Entering new markets or launching transformative products has always required conviction as much as calculation. Progress depends on leaders with the courage to act in the face of ambiguity and risk.
Trust
Trust is the foundation of leadership and the currency of effective organi-
Leadership in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
Ralph de la Vega
zations. Customers choose companies they trust; employees follow leaders they trust. Trust is built through credibility, consistency, and character. Maintaining trust ensures that progress is sustainable in a world where technology can scale faster than ever.
Integrity
AI can optimize almost anything, but integrity ensures we optimize for the right things. Leaders must balance innovation with privacy, profit with fairness, and growth with long-term trust. Integrity is what keeps technology aligned with purpose.
Responsibility
No leader can outsource accountability to an algorithm. Responsibility means owning the consequences of how AI is deployed, standing behind decisions that shape lives, and ensuring we use technology to strengthennot weaken - society.
Humility
The more powerful AI becomes, the more leaders need humility. Humility is the discipline to listen, adapt, and recognize that wisdom comes from dialogue and reflection, not from data alone.
Business Is a Team Sport
One of my greatest business lessons is that success is never an individual achievement. Business is a team sport.
Great leaders build teams that share a common purpose, operate with mutual trust, and hold themselves accountable to each other. Teams with these qualities move faster, innovate more effectively, and deliver better customer outcomes. Just as important, leaders must inspire team members to learn continuously. In an era when AI is reshaping every role, the willingness to learn, adapt, and reinvent keeps individuals and organizations relevant.
AI may accelerate insights, but only strong teams—grounded in trust and driven by a commitment to serving customers—can turn those insights into lasting impact.
CONCLUSION
Every technological revolution I have witnessed succeeded not because of the technology itself, but because it solved a human need at scale. Artificial intelligence will be no different. Its promise lies not in the sophistication of its algorithms, but in how it helps people and organizations solve problems that matter—globally, and at scale.
The future will belong to leaders who combine AI’s power with distinctly human values: courage, trust, integrity, responsibility, humility, and the ability to build teams that learn and grow together. These are the enduring human qualities that will define leadership in the age of AI.
Ralph de la Vega is the former vice-chairman of AT&T Inc. He is the author of the best-selling book “Obstacles Welcome: Turn Adversity to Advantage in Business and Life.” He is also a LinkedIn Influencer, posting regularly on leadership and innovation.
LATINOS IN MUSIC
The author is a Global High-Tech Executive, Senior Vice-president at Softtek USA and previously at Oracle and HP; Board Advisor for high-tech startups and scale-ups, and Board Director for a music nonprofit. Alexis is also a drummer and percussionist, has performed with rock, jazz, and chamber music ensembles, and attends over 30 concerts every year.
SAVING LIVES WITH MUSIC
Paquito D’Rivera is the only musician that has ever won separate Grammys for Latin jazz and classical music composition – out of a total of 16 awards between Grammys and Latin Grammys. Paquito is a living legend as saxophonist, clarinetist and composer, who thinks music has saved his life a few times.
Born in Havana, Cuba, Paquito was a child prodigy who started studying music at age five. By 32, while touring in Spain, he sought asylum in the U.S., trading dictatorship for freedom - and laying the foundation for what would become one of the greatest musician’s careers for a Latino in the US - and globally. Today, he lives in North Bergen, New Jersey, where he enjoys a front-row view of the Big Apple, -for some- the spiritual HQ of jazz.
I’ve had the joy of seeing Paquito perform live twice recently. Once in St. Louis, in a high-voltage duet with the equally legendary pianist Chucho Valdés (featured in one of my prior columns); and more recently in New York City, where he lit up the room during a tribute to James Moody. But nothing topped our private conversation in his apartment, where, in a beautifully humble and kind moment, the jazz icon prepared a Cuban coffee for me. As I do in all my interviews, I asked him my favorite questions:
• If 100 years from now, you’re remembered for just one song, which one would it be?
After a pause, Paquito named “The Elephant and the Clown”, a symphonic poem he composed in honor of his friend Emilio Aragón “Miliki”—a Spanish clown, accordionist and singer. It wasn’t commissioned; it came from his heart. He also mentioned “I Remember Dizzy”, a bossa-nova piece written when the legendary Dizzy Gillespie passed.
• When did you decide to dedicate your life to music?
It was at age eight, after his father -a saxophonist himself- brought home a Benny Goodman album recorded live at Carnegie Hall. Paquito thought Carnegie meant “carne y frijol” (meat and beans in English). “That album changed my life”, especially when he heard Goodman’s take on Mozart, the mix of styles hooked him forever.
• If not a musician, what would you be?
Without missing a beat, Paquito answered: “a writer.” He’s published several books, including his most recent, titled “Ser o no ser, ¡Esa es la jodienda!” (roughly translated: To Be or Not to Be, That’s the Pain-inthe-Butt). Shakespearean existentialism meets Latin Caribbean memories and stories from Paquito himself - definitely worth a read.
• Ever hit a major setback?
Absolutely. Without hesitation, he said “la mili”- Cuba’s compulsory military service. Planned for three years, Paquito endured what he calls the biggest waste of time in his life. But music, once again, saved him. When a commander needed a clarinetist for a special concert, Paquito played. The commander was so impressed he granted Paquito an early -six month- release - despite the fact he’d been accused of tomato-throwing and smuggling a crab into a fellow soldier’s saxophone. Paquito has always had a great sense of humor since his early years.
• What’s your next big project?
At 77, Paquito says his phone won’t stop ringing. He’s grateful, still composing and performing around the globe. But his deepest wish? To play one day in a free Cuba. He hasn’t returned since defecting –and dreams of performing in a liberated Havana are unfortunately almost unreal.
• What does he think about Generative AI in music? With a shrug, he replied, “So what?” Art, he believes, is not a competition - it’s a never-ending experimentation. And while GenAI might generate a passable samba, it’s not going to write “The Elephant and the Clown – Part II”. Because creativity and bravery, like leadership, still requires something deeply human.
Spending time with Paquito was a reminder that greatness doesn’t have to be loud or arrogant. Speaking with him, I learned that greatness can be generous, funny, humble, kind - and still capable of commanding winning awards, and shaping culture. His story is proof that you can be a world-class artist and a wonderful human being.
[Just a little bit of GenAI used in this column.]
PAQUITO D’RIVERA MUSICIAN
1O1 MOST INFLUENTIAL LATINOS
EVERY YEAR, Latino Leaders Magazine spotlights the trailblazers shaping communities, industries, and culture. This year’s 101 Most Influential Latinos is more than a list— it’s a celebration of impact, resilience, and leadership across every field of endeavor. These are the voices and visionaries redefining what it means to lead: executives transforming global companies, entrepreneurs pushing innovation forward, public servants inspiring change, and cultural icons who carry our stories onto the world stage.
Congratulations!
BUSINESS THADDEUS ARROYO
Chief
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LAGUARTA
Thaddeus Arroyo serves as the chief strategy and development officer, where he leads the company’s efforts to drive long-term growth. In this role, he oversees corporate strategy, corporate development, venture investments, and strategic business development. Thaddeus has received recognition for his business achievements, thought leadership and innovation, including Bloomberg Línea’s 100 Most Influential Latinos, HITEC 100, Dallas CIO ORBIE Leadership Award, Latino Leaders’ Top Latino Executives and 101 Most Influential Latinos, Quién and Líderes Mexicanos’ lists of transformative leaders in Mexico, CNET en Español’s 20 Most Influential Latinos in Tech, and prestigious recognitions from CIO Magazine and MIT Sloan.
BUSINESS MARCELO CLAURE
3
Born in Barcelona he is the CEO of PepsiCo, a global food and beverage leader with 23 brands generating more than $1 billion each in annual retail sales. Believer in purposeful leadership, sustainable performance, and fostering a culture of opportunity. Focused on simplicity, accountability, and executional excellence. He joined PepsiCo in 1996 and served as President of Developing Markets in Europe, CEO of Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa, and President of PepsiCo.
BUSINESS CESAR CONDE
@cesarconde_
@cesarconde
Six months after leaving his position as the CEO position at the SoftBank Group International, Marcelo Claure announced a new chapter in his career: he is the Founder & Chairman of Claure Capital, a multi-billion-dollar global investment firm focused on public and private companies in different industries. Claure is also also a member of multiple boards, and the president of Bolivia’s largest professional soccer team Club Bolívar, and the co-owner of the Spanish soccer team Girona FC.
As Chairman of NBCUniversal News Group, Cesar Conde oversees NBC News, NBC News NOW, NBCUniversal Telemundo Enterprises Group and NBCUniversal Local. Under Conde’s leadership, the News Group reaches about seven in 10 American adults each month across its English and Spanish language broadcast, cable, streaming and digital platforms. NBC News NOW, its 24/7 streaming network, is also the fastest-growing streaming news network in the U.S. and continues to achieve record-breaking viewership numbers, along with significant domestic and international distribution growth.
BUSINESS CASTULO
DE LA ROCHA
@altamedhealths
BUSINESS ANDRES GLUSKI
President and CEO, AES American
@AndresGluski
1987 M.A. & Ph.D. in Economics, University of Virginia 1990s Held senior roles at Gener (Chile), Electricidad de Venezuela, CANTV (GTE), and Banco de Venezuela/Grupo Santander. 2004 EVP for Latin America, AES Corporation. 2007 COO, AES Corporation 2011–Present President & CEO, AES Corporation. 2013 Member, U.S. President’s Export Council; served on U.S./Brazil and U.S./ India CEO Forums. 2015 Chairmanship of the COA and Boards of EEI and WM 2025 Co-chair of Electricity Governors Council of WEF Education — M.A. & Ph.D. in Economics,
During the 1970s, Castulo de la Rocha noticed that low-income neighborhoods struggled with essential health resources and changed their realities through AltaMed Health Services, which offers affordable health care for 300,000 patients each year and has a staff of 3,200 employees. In 2016, he was honored with the Action award from the PRIME Program at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and in 2017 he received the Medallion of Excellence from the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI), among other recognitions.
BUSINESS JORGE / JOSE MAS
Chairman and Co-Founder of MasTec, Inc. / Chief Executive Officer, MasTec, Inc Cuban-american
@Jorge__Mas
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1994 Founded MasTec Inc 1997 MasTec lists on the NYSE under MTZ, entering public markets 2007 Jose Mas appointed CEO 2008 Key acquisitions: Wanzek Construction (2008), Precision Pipeline (2009), EC Source (2010) strengthening energy and transmission capabilities 2011 Acquired Fabcor (Canadian ops) and Energy Services of America’s midstream business 2018 Named to the Fortune 500 list for the first time 2021 Acquired INTREN and Henkels & McCoy, expanding power delivery and communications scale 2023–2024 Revenue projected to reach approximately $12.4 billion
MasTec, Inc., founded in 1994 and based in Coral Gables, Florida, is a leading American infrastructure engineering and construction company serving energy, utility, and communications sectors across North America. It originated from the merger of Church & Tower and Burnup & Sims and has evolved into a diversified specialty contractor. MasTec now operates across segments like renewable energy, electric transmission, oil and gas pipelines, and wireless infrastructure, with over 35,000 employees and revenues growing from $930 million in 2007 to over $12 billion projected in 2024
Andres was the leader of a reorganization of the company that resulted in the implementation of a cost savings model that has changed the way that AES does business and operates. These changes were implemented in 2011 and since that time, the company experiences a savings of more than $250 million per year. As a result of his efforts, AES was named by the Ethisphere Institute as one of the “World’s Most Ethical Companies. He set goals for the company that culminated in the inclusion of the company in the North American Dow Jones Sustainability Index and that has been ongoing for the past years.
BUSINESS CARLOS ABRAMS-RIVERA
CEO and Board Directors, Kraft Heinz Puerto Rican
Prior to joining Kraft Heinz, Abrams-Rivera served as Executive Vice President of Campbell Soup Company since 2019 and President, Campbell Snacks from 2018 to 2020. Prior to that, Abrams-Rivera was President, Pepperidge Farm from 2015 to 2018, where he led the turnaround of the business and led the strategic work that led to the company’s snack strategy and acquisition of Snyder’s Lance. Abrams-Rivera previously spent 21 years in leadership roles with the business that is today known as Mondelēz International.
BUSINESS ENRIQUE LORES
President & CEO, HP Inc. Spanish @EnriqueJLores
2015 was a key architect of the separation of Hewlett-Packard Company 2017 worked on the company’s acquisition of Samsung’s printer business 2019 became CEO and is driving a bold strategy to advance HP’s leadership in Personal Systems and Printing, disrupt industrial sectors through innovative HP solutions, and transform the way the company operates to better serve its customers
Enrique Lores has a degree in electrical engineering from the Polytechnic University of Valencia and started his journey at HP in 1989 when he was hired as an engineering intern and navigated through different positions in the company. In 2017 he was named the President and CEO of HP Inc. Heʽs committed to make HP Inc. the most sustainable technology company in the world. He also serves on the boards of PayPal, Silicon Valley Leadership Group, and ESADE Business School.
Javier Rodriguez is the Chief Executive Officer of DaVita Inc. He is an experienced leader committed to transforming care delivery for patients with kidney disease. He is passionate about accelerating the digital transformation and delivering customized care to each patient while lowering costs for the health care system. In more than 20 years with DaVita, he has continued fostering a powerful sense of inclusivity and community among teammates and patients.
BUSINESS ALVARO LUQUE
President &
BUSINESS VICENTE REYNAL
Alvaro has transformed the produce industry by delivering innovative marketing strategies that not only defy established paradigms but also deliver impressive results. With more than 28 years of marketing experience in the CPG and produce industries. Under Alvaro’s leadership, AFM has led the growth of U.S. avocado consumption to more than 2.5 billion pounds per year, and today, 8 in 10 avocados in the U.S. come from Mexico. Alvaro’s vision for making AFM the first fresh produce brand to advertise in the Super Bowl is one of many industry firsts that have positioned AFM as the most preferred brand of avocados in the U.S. and one of the most innovative produce companies in the world.
Prior to Ingersoll Rand, Vicente served as chief executive officer of Gardner Denver and was a member of its board of directors. In this role, he was responsible for driving overall growth and profitability leading to the IPO of Gardner Denver in May 2017 and subsequently in early 2020 acquiring the Ingersoll Rand Industrial Segment. Vicente has led a tremendous value creation increasing the enterprise value by more than 7x over the past five years.
BUSINESS ANTONIO NERI
President and CEO of Hewlett Packard Enterprise Argentinian @AntonioNeri_HPE 1995 Joined
BUSINESS PEDRO PIZARRO
@edisonintl
14
Antonio Neri is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Hewlett Packard Enterprise. His journey at the company started over two decades ago, and he has held numerous leadership positions, including Executive Vice President and General Manager. Antonio led the strategy, development and introduction of many breakthrough innovations at HP and HPE, including HPE Apollo, the industry-leading high-performance compute platform; HPE Superdome X, the world’s most scalable and modular in-memory computing platform.
President and chief executive officer of Edison International, the parent company of Southern California Edison. He started his journey in the company in 1999 and served in several executive roles. Prior to SCE, he was a senior engagement manager with McKinsey & Company. Pedro currently serves on the boards of Edison International, Southern California Edison, 3M, Edison Electric Institute and Caltech. He co-chairs the Electricity Subsector Coordinating Council, which is the principal liaison between the federal government and the electric power industry.
BUSINESS GUILLERMO PERALES
15
BUSINESS DARREN REBELEZ
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Guillermo Perales started his career opening one Franchised restaurant that became an empire with $2 billion in sales, 32,000 employees, and 1800 locations of recognized brands. He is the country’s second largest Franchisee, the top Hispanic Franchisee, and the owner of four nationwide brands – Bar Louie, Freebirds World Burrito, Taco Bueno, and Uncle Julio’s. Sun Holdings’ management portfolio also includes Arby’s, Papa John’s, Burger King, Applebee’s, Popeye’s, McAlister’s, GNC, IHOP, Golden Corral, Cantina Laredo, and T-Mobile.
Since 2019, Darren Rebelez has been the President and Chief Executive Officer of Casey’s General Stores, Inc., where his goal is to ensure they’re making life better for guests and communities every day. He has a career of more than two decades in operations, marketing and merchandising in the convenience retail, fuel and restaurant industries, including leadership roles at IHOP, 7-Eleven and ExxonMobil. Since 2013. he is an advisory board member at the Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation.
BUSINESS ROBERT SANCHEZ
CEO and Chairman, Ryder System American
@RyderSystemInc
2007 Served as EVP & CFO, later EVP of U.S. Fleet Operations. 2010 President, Global Fleet Management Solutions segment; then President & COO 2013 Appointed CEO of Ryder and was named Chairman of the Board. 2013
Robert Sanchez is Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Ryder System, Inc., a FORTUNE 500® commercial fleet management, dedicated transportation, and supply chain solutions company. Over the course of two decades at Ryder, Sanchez has served in senior executive leadership positions in operations, finance, and information technology. He has been a member of the company’s Executive Leadership Team since 2003. Sanchez is also part of many boards of directors, including the Association of Cuban Engineers and Texas Instruments.
Nina Vaca is an award-winning entrepreneur, CEO, board member, and philanthropist who is on a mission to connect people with opportunity. In 1996, she founded Pinnacle Group, which has grown into the largest Hispanic-owned global workforce solutions company in the country. Serving over 20% of the Fortune 100, Pinnacle Group’s global reach includes 20 countries and counting. Featured on the Staffing Industry Analysts’ Global Landscape and Differentiators 2024, Pinnacle Group is among the top companies in its industry globally.
BUSINESS FERNANDO DELEON
BUSINESS PRISCILLA ALMODOVAR
Fernando De Leon is the founder and CEO of Leon Capital Group, a holding company overseeing twelve independently-managed subsidiaries in the three divisions: financial services, healthcare and real estate. Leon is not a private equity fund, it operates as a family holding company that takes the lead conceiving, developing, owning, and operating businesses. De Leon is a co-founder of Crexi, one of the largest digital marketplaces connecting buyers, sellers, landlords and tenants in the commercial real estate sector.
Priscilla Almodovar serves as President and CEO of Fannie Mae, where she leads efforts to ensure access to affordable and sustainable housing across the nation. With a distinguished career spanning finance, law, and community development, she previously led Enterprise Community Partners and held senior roles at JPMorgan Chase. Recognized as one of the most influential Latinas in corporate America, Almodovar brings a strong commitment to equity, innovation, and responsible lending to one of the country’s most important financial institutions.
BUSINESS JOSEPH DOMINGUEZ
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BUSINESS JORGE A. PLASENCIA
22
Joseph Dominguez is President and CEO of Constellation Energy, the largest producer of carbon-free energy in the United States. A lawyer by training, he previously served as CEO of ComEd and as Executive Vice President at Exelon, specializing in governmental and regulatory affairs. Dominguez is a strong advocate for sustainability, equity, and clean energy policies, guiding Constellation’s mission to provide reliable, affordable, and environmentally responsible power while accelerating the nation’s transition toward a carbon-free energy future.
BUSINESS BERTHA GONZALEZ NIEVES
Co-Founder & CEO, Casa Dragones Tequila Mexican
@berthagonzalezn
23
1990s Worked at Grupo Jose Cuervo, leading global strategy and business development
2006 Co-founded Casa Dragones, a luxury tequila brand 2010s Became the first woman certified as a Maestra Tequilera by the Mexican Academy of Tequila Tasters 2020 Named one of Fortune’s Most Powerful Women Entrepreneurs Present Leads Casa Dragones, positioning it as a global symbol of Mexican craftsmanship and innovation.
Bertha González Nieves is Co-Founder and CEO of Casa Dragones, an acclaimed small-batch tequila producer celebrated for redefining luxury in the spirits industry. The first woman to be certified as “Maestra Tequilera” by the Mexican Academy of Tequila Tasters, she has been recognized by Forbes as one of Mexico’s most powerful women. González Nieves combines tradition, craftsmanship, and innovation, positioning Casa Dragones as an international symbol of Mexican excellence and setting new standards for the tequila industry worldwide.
Chairman & CEO, República Havas Cuban-American @jorgeplasencia @republicahavas
2006 Co-founded República, a leading multicultural advertising and communications agency 2018 República merged with Havas Group, becoming República Havas; Plasencia continued as Chairman & CEO 2020s Recognized as a leader in multicultural marketing, advising major global
Jorge A. Plasencia is the Chairman and CEO of República Havas, a leading creative, media, and communications agency he co-founded. He made history as the first Hispanic to chair UnidosUS, the largest Latino civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States. Recognized among the most influential Hispanics in business, Plasencia is also co-founder of Amigos For Kids, a nonprofit focused on preventing child abuse, reflecting his deep commitment to community impact, philanthropy, and empowering Latino voices.
COMMUNITY SOL TRUJILLO
Co-Founder, L'Attitude American
@LATTITUDEevent @lattitudeevent
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1999 Presented with the Ronald H. Brown Corporate Bridge Builder Award by President Clinton for creating opportunities for women and minorities 2000 Corporate Recognition Award from A Better Chance, for his commitment to supporting and advancing educational opportunities for students of color 2008 Named “CEO of the Year” by Australian Telecom Magazine, recognizing achievements in the privatization and transformation of Telstra
2008 Named “CEO of the Year” by Australian Telecom Magazine 2012 National Association of Corporate Directors Top 100 Directors Award 2013 National Hero of the Year Award by United States Hispanic Leadership Institute 2016 Council of Urban Professionals (CUP) Lifetime Leadership Achievements Award 2017 Silicon Valley Latino Leaders (SVVL) Lifetime Achievement Award 2018 Hispanic Executive’s Top Ten Leaders of 2018 Award 2022 Bloomberg 100 Most Influential Latinos Award 2023 TIME Magazine Latino Leaders Making an Impact Award 2024 OCHCC Estrella Lifetime Achievement Award 2025 TIME100 Philanthropy 2025 Award
COMMUNITY RAMIRO CAVAZOS
COMMUNITY JANET MURGUIA
President and CEO of UnidosUS
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Mexican-American
@JMurguia_Unidos
1994 - 2000 Served as Deputy Assistant to President Clinton, providing strategic and legislative advice to the president on key issues 2001 She joined the University of Kansas as executive vice chancellor for university relations 2005 Murguía has sought to strengthen UnidosUSA work and enhance its record of impact as a vital American institution. She received the University of Kansas (KU) Law Alumni Association Distinguished Alumnus/na
Ramiro Cavazos is President and Chief Executive Officer of the USHCC. He is a trusted economic development expert and champion for bipartisan solutions that generate wealth to advance economic opportunity for the Hispanic community. Prior to his role at the USHCC, Ramiro was the President and Chief Executive Officer of the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (SAHCC). Ramiro has shared his views on Latino entrepreneurship, small business growth, trade, and commerce on various media outlets.
Janet Murguía has devoted her career in public service to opening the door to that dream to millions of American families. Now, as a key figure among this generation of leaders in the Latino community, she continues this mission as President and CEO of UnidosUS (previously known as NCLR, the National Council of La Raza), the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States. She emphasized on turning Latino growth into empowerment through the Latino vote.
COMMUNITY GARY ACOSTA
President, NAHREP American
2000
@garynahrep @garyacosta7025
27
COMMUNITY OZZIE GROMADA MEZA
28
Co-Founder and CEO of the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP) and a 25-year veteran of the housing industry. NAHREP is the largest Hispanic business organization in America. He founded several successful mortgages, real estate and technology companies, including Prado Mortgage, New Vista Asset Management, CounselorMax, and RealEstateEspanol.com. NAHREP brings a huge attendance of it's members to the L'Attitude event every year. Gary is a Co-Founder of L'Attitude Ventures, which provides funding and investment money to hispanic owned companies.
Ozzie brings 10+ years of direct corporate experience and 5 years of entrepreneurial experience. He developed his expertise in boutique and Fortune 50 organizations. Prior to joining LCDA, Ozzie was an intelligence lead at JamesDruryPartners, a leading board advisory services firm, where he focused on aligning C-level executives backgrounds with Board of Director opportunities. During his hiatus from corporate America, his entrepreneurial spirit led him to build the award-winning Gromeza Design Studio focused on small to mid-event production.
COMMUNITY
MARCO. A. DAVIS
President & CEO, Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute
American
@MarcoADavis
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2007 He was Director of Global Fellowship and Regional Manager for Latin America at Ashoka's Youth Venture, and led leadership development for UnidosUS where he created the Líderes Initiative 2010 served as a Director of Public Engagement for the Corporation for National and Community Service 2012 Served in the Obama Administration as Deputy Director of the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics 2019 Became President & CEO of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute 2021 Appointed by President Biden to the President’s Commission on White House Fellowships
Marco A. Davis is President and CEO of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI), a national nonprofit organization dedicated to developing the next generation of Latino leaders. Davis has over 25 years of experience and was a partner at New Profit and he served in the Obama Administration as Deputy Director of the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics and as Director of Public Engagement for the Corporation for National and Community Service.
COMMUNITY MILDRED GARCIA
COMMUNITY MARISA FRANCO
Co founder & Director, Mijente Mexican/ American @Conmijente
31
2014 Led #Not1MoreDeportation campaign, awarded Campaign of the Year 2015 Co founded Mijente, Latinx advocacy and organizing hub 2016 Named to The Advocate’s 40 Under 40
Marisa Franco is Co-founder and Director of Mijente, a national grassroots organization that advances Latino and immigrant rights. With a long trajectory in community organizing, she has led campaigns addressing deportations, racial justice, and the impact of technology on vulnerable communities. Franco is recognized as a prominent progressive leader, dedicated to building collective power for Latinx communities across the United States. Her work emphasizes equity, visibility, and justice, making her a vital voice in shaping inclusive social movements.
Chancellor, California State University System American
30
2001 President, Berkeley College; first system wide president 2007 President, CSU Dominguez Hills; CSU’s first Latina president; appointed to President Obama’s Advisory Commission on Educational Excellence for Hispanics 2012 President, CSU Fullerton; received ACE Diversity Leadership Award and Latina Woman of the Year honors 2018 President, American Association of State Colleges and Universities; first Latina to lead a major higher education association in D.C. 2023–Present 11th Chancellor, California State University; first Latina to lead the largest 4 year public university system; inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Sciences; received TIAA Hesburgh Award and AAUA Leadership in DEI Award.
García is the first Latina appointed to oversee the CSU's 23-campus system. As AASCU president since 2018, García has been a strong advocate for public higher education at the national level, working to influence federal policy and regulations on behalf of 350 member colleges and universities. She is the first Latina to lead one of the six presidentially based higher education associations in Washington, D.C.
COMMUNITY YADIRA SÁNCHEZ
32
Executive Director & Co‑Founder, Poder Latinx Mexican American @yadirasanchezpl @poderlatinx
2015 Development Director, Mi Familia Vota
2019 Co founded Poder Latinx 2021 Named American Express NGen Fellow 2022 Honored as “40 Under 40” by AAPC and Leadership Center for Excellence
A proud daughter of immigrants, Yadira Sánchez has dedicated her career to empowering Latino communities through civic engagement and leadership development. She has raised millions of dollars to expand access to voter participation and policy advocacy, particularly in key battleground states. With extensive experience in nonprofit leadership, Sánchez works to ensure that Latino voices are represented at every level of government and society. Her vision is focused on building sustainable power for communities historically excluded from decision-making.
COMMUNITY ALICIA GUEVARA
33
CEO, America Needs You Afro-Latina, Puerto Rican, American @americaneedsyou
2019 CEO, Big Brothers Big Sisters of NYC 2023 Honored by Crain’s as a Notable Hispanic Leader 2024
of
COMMUNITY JULIÁN CASTRO
With nearly three decades of nonprofit leadership, Alicia Guevara has committed her life to advancing education equity and mentorship for underrepresented youth. She has guided organizations dedicated to social justice, youth empowerment, and access to higher education. As the first woman of color to lead a major national mentoring program, Guevara brings deep expertise in building networks of support for first-generation college students. Her leadership is defined by a passion for helping young people succeed through opportunity, guidance, and community.
COMMUNITY CLAUDIA
ROMO EDELMAN
Founder & CEO of We Are All Human Foundation and Hispanic Star; host of the A LA LATINA podcast Mexican-Swiss
35
@WeAreAllHuman and @HispanicStar
2014 Led global communications, UN and UNICEF 2017 Founded We Are All Human Foundation 2019 Launched Hispanic Star and Hispanic Promise 2024 Launched A LA LATINA podcast
A global advocate for equity and inclusion, Claudia Romo Edelman has championed humanitarian causes for more than two decades. After senior roles at UNICEF and the United Nations, she founded initiatives to promote Hispanic visibility, leadership, and corporate commitment to diversity. She also created a national platform to unite Latinos and launched a podcast showcasing Latina executives and their career journeys. Romo Edelman’s work highlights her belief in the power of representation, collaboration, and community to drive meaningful change.
CEO, Latino Community Foundation Mexican, American @latinocommfdn
2009 Elected Mayor of San Antonio 2014 Appointed U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development 2018 Published memoir An Unlikely Journey 2021 NBCUniversal political
A nationally recognized leader in public service, Julián Castro has built a career focused on expanding opportunity for underserved communities. He served as U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development under President Obama and was previously mayor of San Antonio, Texas. Today, he leads efforts to strengthen Latino civic participation, philanthropy, and economic opportunity nationwide. Castro is a strong advocate for equity and inclusion, using his experience in government and community leadership to empower future generations of Latino leaders.
2016 Began posting bilingual videos advocating for immigrant rights and civic engagement 2020 Gained national attention for his advocacy during U.S. immigration policy debates 2024 Delivered a keynote speech on the main stage of the Democratic National Convention. Won a Premios Juventud Award 2025 Amassed over 18 million of followers across social media, becoming one of the most visible young Latino voices on immigration and social justice.
Carlos Eduardo Espina is an immigration activist, law graduate, and digital creator who migrated from Uruguay to Texas as a child. With millions of followers on social media, he has become a leading voice for immigrant rights, using his platforms to inform, mobilize, and inspire action. Espina has founded initiatives to support detained immigrants and raised funds for families facing deportation. Recognized on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list, he continues to amplify immigrant stories and fight for social justice.
COMMUNITY CARMEN PÉREZ
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President & CEO, The Gathering for Justice Mexican-American @msladyjustice1
2001 Began work in criminal justice reform and youth advocacy, launching the REAL mentorship program and co-founding the Girls Taskforce in Santa Cruz County, CA 2003 Appointed Santa Cruz City representative and Chair of the Latino Affairs Commission. 2005 Named youth representative to The Gathering for Justice 2010 Became Executive Director of The Gathering for Justice 2013 Co-founded Justice League NYC and Justice League CA 2020 Co-founded Poderistas 2020s As President & CEO of The Gathering for Justice, continues to lead movements for racial justice, gender equity, and decarceration 2025 Facilitates the inaugural How Women Lead: Movement Builders of the World cohort.
A Chicana feminist and civil rights leader, Carmen Pérez has spent her career fighting for justice, equity, and systemic reform. She co-founded grassroots movements addressing incarceration and racial inequities, and co-chaired the historic Women’s March in Washington in 2017. Her leadership at the helm of a national organization reflects her deep commitment to ending youth incarceration, advancing criminal justice reform, and building coalitions across communities. Pérez continues to inspire change through advocacy, organizing, and her unwavering belief in human dignity.
CULTURE CLAUDIA PEÑA
Contemporary artist Mexican
Claudiapenasalinas
39
2000 Moved to New York and completed her studies. 2010 Began incorporating Mayan elements into her work. 2016 Held a solo exhibition in New York. 2018 Featured in a major museum exhibition. 2020 Received a prestigious art grant. 2022 Held a large-scale solo exhibition. 2023 Featured in a traveling exhibition and participated in panels on cultural heritage.
CULTURE GUSTAVO DUDAMEL
38
Peña has gained prominence in the art world for her ability to fuse cultural traditions with contemporary techniques. Her work not only pays homage to Mexico's indigenous roots but also invites the audience to reconsider the relationship between the past and the present. She has been part of significant exhibitions in galleries and museums, and her work has been recognized for its originality and conceptual depth.
Music Director at Simon Bolívar Symphony Orchestra of Venezuela/ Music and Artistic Director at Los Angeles Philharmonic Venezuelan @gustavodudamel
2009 Named one of Time's 100 most influential people 2014 Received the Leonard Bernstein Lifetime Achievement Award from the Longy School of Music 2016 Awarded the Americas Society Cultural Achievement Award 2018 Honored with the Pablo Neruda Order of Artistic and Cultural Merit 2019 Received the Konex Foundation Classical Music Award, ISPA Distinguished Artist Award, Gish Prize, and Paez Medal of Art 2022 Won a Grammy for Mahler’s Symphony No. 8
Gustavo Dudamel is currently the Music & Artistic Director of the Los Angeles Philharmonic and Music Director of the Opéra National de Paris and Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra. One of the most decorated conductors of his generation, he started studying music during his childhood and became the Music Director of the Amadeus Chamber Orchestra at the age of 13 and received international recognition after winning the Bamberger Symphoniker Gustav Mahler Competition.
CULTURE GUSTAVO OTT
40
Producing artistic director of GALA Hispanic Theatre Venezuela
Gustavott.autor
Early 2000s Moved to the U.S. from Venezuela. 2005-2020 Held various roles in the U.S. theater scene, gaining experience and recognition. 2021 Appointed as Executive Artistic Director of Teatro Dallas. 2023 Named Producing Artistic Director of GALA Hispanic Theatre in Washington, D.C.
Relevant in the U.S. theater scene, notably as the new Producing Artistic Director of GALA Hispanic Theatre in Washington, D.C. With over 15 years of experience, including leadership roles at Teatro Dalla, Ott is recognized for promoting Hispanic cultural expression and excellence in theater. His appointment underscores his commitment to advancing Latino and Latin American arts, enriching cultural diversity in the nation's capital and beyond.
CULTURE LOURDES I. RAMOS-RIVAS
President & CEO, Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA) Puerto Rican-American @lourdesramosrivas
2005 Served 13 years as Executive Director & Curator at Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico and Institute of Puerto Rican Culture 2017 Became President & CEO of MOLAA, the first Latina to lead the museum
CULTURE STILLZ (MATIAS) VASQUEZ
42
A leader in the arts and cultural sector, Lourdes I. Ramos-Rivas has dedicated her career to elevating Latin American and Latino voices in the global art world. With decades of experience in museum leadership, cultural policy, and education, she has expanded access to modern and contemporary art through exhibitions, collections, and educational initiatives. Her vision has positioned her institution as a hub for cultural dialogue, fostering innovation and exchange between Latin American artists and international audiences.
FINANCE SILVANA MONTENEGRO
Silvana brings a wealth of experience from her leadership roles in the U.S. and Latin America, as well as a proven reputation for empowering leadership teams and individuals to reach their potential. She is passionate about developing talent, driving an inclusive workplace and excels at connecting the dots to deliver business results. Prior to her current role, Silvana was the Head of Commercial Banking Talent, Diversity & Inclusion at JPMorgan Chase.
Video director and photographer Colombian American @stillz
2019 Began working with Bad Bunny as his creative director producing standout music videos 2023 Recognized for visual innovation and collaborative
Matias Vasquez, professionally known as Stillz, is a Colombian-American video director and photographer celebrated for shaping contemporary music visuals. He has worked with top global artists including Bad Bunny, J Balvin, and Rosalía, creating innovative music videos and campaigns that redefine Latin pop culture. Stillz is also the creative force behind the visual identity of Bad Bunny’s albums and tours, blending bold aesthetics with storytelling. As a young creative, he has become one of the most influential figures in music media.
Maizel has been a leader in the Hispanic community throughout his adult life, and previously served as a Director of United PanAmerican Financial Corporation, Pacific Commerce Bancorp, and Vibra Bank, the first Hispanic community bank in San Diego. He has also been a board member of the United States Board of Directors of Nacional Financiera (NAFIN, Mexico’s National Development Company), and was Board Chairman of the Hispanic National Mortgage Association. In addition, he held a seat on the Wells Fargo San Diego Community Board. Maizel is equally devoted to education.
FINANCE EDUARDO TOBON
Head,
45
FINANCE JOSE FELICIANO
Co-Founder &
Clearlake Capital
Puerto
46
Eduardo is a seasoned executive and entrepreneur with extensive leadership experience in consumer goods, financial services, and consulting. He currently leads the Economic Advisory Group and Latino Segment at BMO Commercial Bank and is Co-Founder and Board Director at Angeles Investors. He has held several board roles at RappiPay, Diners Club, Dinit, and Acculynk. In addition to his career in banking and leadership with YPO, he has advised and scaled multiple companies.
José co-founded the SUPERCHARGED Initiative, a philanthropic grantmaking and impact investment organization, in 2014 with his wife, Kwanza Jones. The Initiative invests in both nonprofits and for-profit ventures that are compatible with its goal to make a lasting impact across four key priorities: Education, Entrepreneurship, Equal Opportunity and Empowerment. In addition, Feliciano serves on the board of directors of the Robert Toigo Foundation and Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights.
FINANCE RAUL ANAYA
FINANCE REBECA ROMERO
Raul is President of Business Banking, one of Bank of America’s eight lines of business, and is a member of the company’s executive management team. He leads a nationwide team that serves mid-sized businesses with annual revenues of $5 million to $50 million by delivering financial advice and solutions to help companies grow, improve cash flow, and invest for the future. Additionally, Raul serves as Bank of America's President for the Greater Los Angeles region and its 8,000 associates.
Romero Rainey led ICBA efforts to differentiate community banks from larger financial institutions following 2023 bank failures, leading the FDIC to exempt most community banks from its proposed Deposit Insurance Fund special assessment.
FINANCE MARCELA MANJARREZ
With extensive experience in communications and public affairs, Marcela Manjarrez has built a career guiding companies through complex reputational, branding, and stakeholder challenges. She previously served as Chief Communications Officer at a Fortune 50 company and held leadership roles in consulting, corporate affairs, and financial institutions. Her expertise spans crisis management, strategic positioning, and corporate responsibility, making her a trusted advisor to executives and boards. Manjarrez is recognized for her ability to align business strategy with purpose and impact.
FINANCE JUAN ANDRADE
51
As a trailblazer in inclusive finance, Monika Mantilla has championed opportunities for diverse entrepreneurs and investment managers. She co-founded a growth fund supporting underrepresented businesses and has led efforts to expand institutional capital access to emerging markets. Her leadership emphasizes financial inclusion, diversity, and impact investing, helping to transform the investment landscape. Mantilla’s dedication has earned her national recognition as a voice for equity in finance. She continues to influence policy and practice, ensuring more equitable access to resources.
FINANCE DAVID MARTÍNEZ
Shaped by a background in law, business, and national security, Juan Andrade has built a career leading complex organizations and serving communities. He has held senior roles across the insurance and financial services industries, guiding companies through transformation, innovation, and growth. Known for his focus on purpose-driven leadership, Andrade has championed initiatives that strengthen customer trust while expanding opportunities for those he serves. His approach combines strategic vision with a deep commitment to people, culture, and organizational resilience.
A prominent financier from Mexico, David Martínez has become one of the most influential figures in international investment and restructuring. Through his private firm, he has played a central role in high-profile debt negotiations and distressed asset deals across Latin America and other global markets. Known for his discretion, discipline, and strategic foresight, Martínez has invested in industries ranging from telecommunications to energy. His work has shaped outcomes for companies and economies, making him a powerful presence in global finance.
FINANCE ILEANA MUSA
Managing Director, Head of Sales Private Bank, Morgan
53
@ileanamusa3
@ileanamusa3 1997
GOVERNMENT ALEJANDRA OCASIO CORTEZ
54
A passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion in finance, Ileana Musa has built a distinguished career advising high-net-worth individuals and global families. She has held senior leadership positions at leading financial institutions, guiding teams in banking, lending, and wealth management. Beyond her business achievements, she is widely recognized for mentoring women and Hispanics, opening pathways to leadership and success in the financial sector. Musa’s influence extends across the industry, where she continues to champion innovation, excellence, and equitable access.
GOVERNMENT TED CRUZ
U.S Senator from Texas- R Cuban-American @tedcruz @tedcruz
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2003 Solicitor General of Texas 2012 appointed Vice-Chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee 2012 Elected to the Senate 2015 Announced his candidacy in the 2016 U.S. Presidential Election 2016 Suspended his campaign on May 4th
One of only three Latinos in the Senate, Cruz was among the first Republicans to announce his candidacy in the 2016 U.S. Presidential Election. Previously he served as the first Hispanic (and youngest) Solicitor General of Texas, the State’s chief lawyer before the U.S. Supreme Court. He suspended his presidential bid in May 2016. He returned to the Senate to resume his fight to require the Library of Congress to use the term ‘illegal aliens’. At the 2016 Republican Convention, he defied the GOP denying Trump his endorsement, urging the audience to “vote their own conscience.”
Congresswoman from NY - 14th District Mexican-American @AOC @aoc
2016 worked as an organizer for Bernie Sanders's presidential campaign 2018 won the Democratic Party's primary election for New York's 14th congressional district 2021 sworn-in for her second term in Congress.
Controversial and sometimes viewed as a radical democrat, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is an American Democratic Congress Representative who made headlines in 2018 by beating a 10-term New York Democrat incumbent in a congressional primary before becoming the youngest woman ever elected to Congress at the age of 29. She quickly gained a reputation as an effective questioner in committee hearings, and over her first term, she introduced a total of 23 pieces of legislation, including the Loan Shark Prevention Act, which would cap credit card interest rates at 15%.
GOVERNMENT BEN RAY LUJÁN
U.S. Senate from New Mexico. Mexican American @benraylujan @benraylujan
56
2004 Elected to the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission 2008 Luján won the Democratic primary, defeating five other candidates 2021 Became a member of the U.S. Senate from New Mexico
In 2018, Ben Ray successfully chaired the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, leading the Democratic effort to take back the majority in the U.S. House while electing the most diverse and youngest Congress in history. As Assistant Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, Ben Ray is the highest-ranking Hispanic in Congress and has helped put forward a people-first legislative agenda that addresses disparities to help all Americans achieve equity.
GOVERNMENT MICHELLE LUJAN-GRISHAM
Governor New Mexico
Mexican-American
@GovMLG
@michellelujangrisham
57
2004 Served as Secretary of Health of New Mexico 2016 was selected as the Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus 2018 she became the first Democratic woman elected governor of New Mexico, as well as the first Democratic Hispanic woman elected state governor in U.S. history 2019 Began to serve as the 32nd governor of New Mexico
Michelle Lujan Grisham is the first Democratic Latina to be elected governor in the U.S. She has implemented a series of policies to transform New Mexico’s public education system, expanding the state’s economy to include more high-quality employment opportunities and preserving New Mexico’s air, land and water. She introduced and led the push for Care Corps, a caregiving initiative that places volunteers in communities to provide non-medical services to seniors and individuals with disabilities.
GOVERNMENT CATHERINE CORTEZ
U.S. Senate from Nevada American
SenCortezMasto
SenCortezMasto
59
1995 Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Nevada. 2001 Chief of Staff to Governor Bob Miller of Nevada. Attorney General of Nevada: 2007 Served two terms, focusing on consumer protection, the foreclosure crisis, and sex trafficking. U.S. Senate: 2016 Elected as the first Latina U.S. Senator, succeeding Senator Harry Reid. 2017-Present Active in various legislative efforts and key committees.
American lawyer, politician, and diplomat who is the United States ambassador to Mexico. He previously served as the 50th United States Secretary of the Interior in the administration of President Barack Obama, where he had a lead role on the Obama-Biden agenda on energy and climate, the nation’s conservation agenda including America’s Great Outdoors, and Indian Country. Ambassador Salazar has been a lifelong fighter for civil rights and the inclusion of Latinos in the American dream.
GOVERNMENT SONIA SOTOMAYOR
58
Justice of the Supreme Court of the U.S. Puerto Rican-American @soniafromthebronx
1998 Judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit 2009 Confirmed as the 111th Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court 2013 Published a memoir about her earlier days My Beloved World 2015 Received the Katharine Hepburn medal from Bryn Mawr College
Sonia Sotomayor earned a B.A. in 1976 from Princeton University, receiving the Pyne Prize, the highest academic honor Princeton awards to an undergraduate. Later, she entered the record book as the first Hispanic and the third woman to serve on the High Court. In 2009, President Barack Obama nominated her as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court. She is also vocal on the Court’s rulings and remains outspoken about decisions that she believes go against the interests of the American people.
GOVERNMENT NYDIA VELAZQUEZ
U.S. Representative for New York's 7th Congressional District U.S. House of Representatives Puerto Rico
NydiaVelazquez
Rep_velazquez
60
1992 Elected as the first Puerto Rican woman to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives 1998 Became Ranking Democrat on the House Small Business Committee 2013 Began representing New York's 7th District 2017 Led efforts to secure federal disaster recovery funding for Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria Present Continues leadership on affordable housing, immigration reform, small business and entrepreneurship
Cortez Masto advocates for comprehensive immigration reform, healthcare expansion, and economic development. She supports DACA, the Affordable Care Act, and efforts to address the opioid crisis. Her focus includes job creation, small business support, and renewable energy. She also champions women's rights and environmental sustainability.
U.S. Senator for
SenAlexPadilla
SenAlexPadilla
GOVERNMENT PETE AGUILAR
Chair of the House Democratic Caucus and U.S. Representative for California’s 33rd District
Mexican American
PeteAguilar
@rep.peteaguilar
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2001 Appointed Interim Director, Inland Empire regional office, Governor of California 2006 Elected to Redlands City Council 2010–2014 Mayor of Redlands, California 2015 Elected to U.S. House, representing California’s 31st District (later CA-33) 2021 Vice Chair, House Democratic Caucus 2023 Named
Padilla grew up in the San Fernando Valley and studied Mechanical Engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He was drawn to politics in response to California’s anti-immigrant Proposition 187. Padilla was elected to the Los Angeles City Council in 1999 and the State Senate in 2006. As California’s Secretary of State, he oversaw a historic expansion of voting rights and voter participation. Padilla currently serves as Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship, and Border Safety. He is a member of the Senate Committees on Budget; Environment and Public Works; Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs; Judiciary; and Rules.
GOVERNMENT ROBERT GARCIA
U.S. Representative, California – Top Democrat on the House Oversight Committee
Peruvian American
@RepRobertGarcia
@RepRobertGarcia
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2014 Elected Mayor of Long Beach, California; served two terms 2022 Elected to U.S. House, representing California’s 42nd District; first Peruvian-American in House 2025 June Elected Ranking Member of House Oversight Committee
Robert Garcia made history as the first openly gay immigrant elected to Congress. Before serving in Washington, he was mayor of Long Beach, where he championed education, climate action, and economic development. In Congress, he has emerged as a progressive leader, advocating for equity, accountability, and civil rights. Garcia’s career reflects his belief in public service as a means to build inclusive, resilient communities while ensuring government works for all Americans.
Pete Aguilar has dedicated his career to public service and advancing opportunities for working families. He served as mayor of Redlands before being elected to Congress, where he has become a leading advocate for immigration reform, economic growth, and national security. As a key figure in Democratic leadership, Aguilar works to ensure Latino voices are represented at the highest levels of government while promoting bipartisan solutions to strengthen communities across the nation.
GOVERNMENT JASON MIYARES
Attorney General of Virginia Cuban, American
@JasonMirayesVA
64
2016 Elected to Virginia House of Delegates (82nd District) 2021 Elected Attorney General of Virginia 2024–2025 Seeking reelection and gaining national recognition for election integrity initiatives
Jason Miyares built a career in law and public service focused on justice, accountability, and opportunity. After serving in the Virginia House of Delegates, he became the first Latino elected to statewide office in Virginia. Known for his emphasis on transparency and protecting victims’ rights, Miyares has worked to strengthen public safety while promoting government accountability. His personal story, shaped by his family’s immigrant journey, drives his commitment to fairness and democratic values.
GOVERNMENT CISCO AGUILAR
Nevada Secretary of State Mexican American
@CiscoAguilar
2000s Clerked for U.S. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid; served 8 years on Nevada State Athletic Commission, including as chair 2022 Elected Secretary of State of Nevada 2023 Assumed office 2024 Pushed bipartisan legislation protecting election workers and expanded outreach to veterans, young and Native voters
GOVERNMENT
BERNARDO (BERNIE) MORENO
U.S. Senator from Ohio Colombian American
@berniemoreno
@berniemorenoforohio
Cisco Aguilar has dedicated his career to strengthening democracy and expanding civic participation. With a background in law, business, and education, he has served on various state boards and championed efforts to increase access to the electoral process. He is recognized for his commitment to ensuring fair and secure elections while modernizing voting systems. Aguilar’s leadership reflects his focus on transparency, equity, and empowering communities through active democratic engagement.
GOVERNMENT MONICA DE LA CRUZ
U.S. Representative for Texas’s 15th Congressional District
Mexican American
67
@monica4congress and @RepMonicaDLC
@RepMonicaDLC
2020 Ran for U.S. House (TX-15) 2022 Endorsed by Trump and Kevin McCarthy; won TX-15 seat, becoming its first Republican representative since 1903 2023 Sworn in as U.S. Representative; second Republican elected from Rio Grande Valley in over a century 2024 Re-elected by 14 points; delivered Republican Spanish-language response to the State of the Union
2010 Founded Collection Auto Group, growing it into a top-performing luxury dealership group 2015 Opened Infiniti of Coral Gables 2018 Launched CHAMPtitles, a blockchain startup to digitize vehicle titles 2022 Chairman of Dryver 2023 Won Republican nomination for U.S. Senate, Ohio 2025 Took office as U.S. Senator from Ohio; serves on Homeland Security, Commerce, Banking, and Budget Committees
Bernie Moreno has emerged as a new voice in national politics. Known for his entrepreneurial background and civic involvement in Ohio, he has long been engaged in community development and philanthropy. His transition from business to public office reflects a focus on economic growth, security, and opportunity. Moreno’s career embodies the immigrant story, combining private sector leadership with a commitment to representing his state on the national stage.
GOVERNMENT MARÍA ELVIRA SALAZAR
U.S. Representative for Florida’s 27th Congressional District
Cuban American
@RepMariaSalazar
@RepMariaSalazar
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2009 Signed publishing deal; later released best-selling book Si Dios contigo, ¿quién contra ti? 2020 Elected to U.S. House (FL-27) 2021 Voted against invoking the 25th Amendment after Capitol attack 2022–2024 Salazar was re-elected. Emmy Awards Won five for international reporting in Nicaragua, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic
Monica De La Cruz has focused her career on expanding economic opportunity and championing small businesses. Before entering Congress, she worked in the insurance industry, supporting families and entrepreneurs across her district. Today, she advocates for border security, workforce development, and healthcare access. De La Cruz’s leadership reflects her dedication to representing the values of her constituents and ensuring that the voices of South Texas are heard in Washington. 66
A former journalist and television anchor, María Elvira Salazar built a distinguished media career before transitioning into public service. Known for her reporting on international affairs and Latino issues, she earned recognition as one of the most influential Hispanic journalists in the United States. In her current role, she champions freedom, democracy, and opportunity, particularly in support of Cuban and Venezuelan communities. Salazar’s journey from journalism to public office highlights her lifelong commitment to giving voice to the Hispanic community.
U.S. Senator from Arizona Colombian American @gallegoforaz and @senrubengallego
2005 Served in the U.S. Marine Corps, deployed to Iraq 2011 Elected to the Arizona House of Representatives. 2014 Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Arizona’s 7th district. 2025 Sworn in as U.S. Senator from Arizona, focusing on veterans’ issues, immigration reform, and economic opportunity.
SCIENCE NANETTE COCERO
Board Director, HilleVax American
2002
70
A U.S. Marine veteran and Harvard graduate, Rubén Gallego has dedicated his career to public service and advocacy for working families. After serving in the Arizona legislature, he was elected to Congress, where he became a strong voice on veterans’ issues, education, and immigration reform. His military background, including combat experience in Iraq, informs his leadership and commitment to national security. Gallego’s career reflects his deep dedication to equity, opportunity, and ensuring government delivers for all Americans.
SCIENCE
JOSÉ MOREY
Eisenhower Fellow, CEO of Ad Astra Steam Media American
@DrMorey1
71
2018 Speaker, WHRO National Public Radio Emerging Leaders Board 2019 Member, Forbes Technology Council 2020 Ambassador, Deeplearning.ai and Board Member, MaaPaa 2020 Senior Advisor, NASA Covid-19 Breathing Space Initiative and Special Advisor, White House OSTP & Google Kaggle CORD19 Project 2021 Chief Medical Officer & Co-Founder, Ever Medical Technologies and Board of Directors, WHRO 2023 NIST Generative AI Public Working Group, Volunteer 2024 Eisenhower Fellow Present CEO, Ad Astra Media, Inc., President, Medical Society of Virginia, President, Virginia Radiological Society and Board of Directors, Medical Society of Virginia
José is Senior Advisor to the Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology CORD19 Project and is Senior Advisor to the NASA AI Breathing Space Initiative. He is also Chief Medical Innovation Officer for Liberty BioSecurity and CEO and Founder of Ad Astra Media LLC.
Cocero is a seasoned pharmaceutical executive with over 25 years of experience in diverse leadership positions. Most recently, Cocero was the Global President of Pfizer Vaccines where she led an over $30B global business and managed a diverse vaccines portfolio aimed at protecting lives at all stages, from infants to older adults. Cocero was responsible for the development, global commercialization, and delivery of >2B doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine to 152 countries and territories around the world. Throughout her 21-year tenure at Pfizer, she held a number of senior positions touching every market of the world, from United States, Europe and Japan to emerging markets.
SCIENCE DANIEL COLÓN-RAMOS
Professor of Neuroscience and Cell Biology at Yale School of Medicine
Puerto Rico
Dacolon
72
2010 Faculty member, currently a professor of neuroscience and cell biology. 2023 Published key research papers on neural circuit formation and function. Promoted diversity in science through mentorship and advocacy. 2024 Awarded major grants for research on neural circuits and neurological diseases. Enhanced science outreach programs for young, diverse scientists.
Colón-Ramos is a distinguished professor at Yale School of Medicine, where his pioneering research on neural circuits has advanced the understanding of how these networks control behavior. His recent publications in 2023 have provided critical insights into neural development, while his advocacy for diversity in science continues to create opportunities for underrepresented minorities. In 2024, Colón-Ramos secured significant grant funding to expand his research on neural circuits and their impact on neurological diseases. His community engagement efforts further highlight his commitment to fostering the next generation of diverse scientists.
SCIENCE ANA MARIA REY
73
Professor of Physics at University of Colorado Boulder; Fellow at JILA, APS, NIST
Colombian-American
2005 Earned Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Maryland. 2005–2008 Postdoctoral work at NIST, focusing on quantum many-body physics.
2008 Joined University of Colorado Boulder as faculty and JILA Fellow. 2010s Made groundbreaking contributions to quantum simulation, optical lattice clocks, and ultracold atomic physics. 2020s Recipient of multiple national and international awards, recognized as one of the world’s leading quantum physicists.
Ana Maria Rey is a renowned physicist whose research focuses on atomic, molecular, and optical physics. She has become a leading voice in the study of quantum systems and ultra-cold atoms, earning multiple international awards for her groundbreaking contributions. Rey has advanced understanding of quantum technologies and inspired countless students, especially young women in STEM, encouraging the next generation of scientists to pursue innovation and excellence in physics and related fields around the world.
San Francisco 49ers
Mexican
@IsaacAlarcon
@isaac_algar
The World No. 20-ranked golfer Abraham Ancer used to play golf at Odessa College and the University of Oklahoma, where he graduated in 2013. Ancer became famous among golf fans thanks to his debut at the Presidents Cup, where he went undefeated until meeting Tiger Woods. He won the 2018 Emirates Australian Open and the 2021 WGC-FedEx St. Jude Invitational for his first PGA Tour career victory. This year, he officially signed with LIV Golf aiming to have a better life quality.
Born in Mexico, Isaac Alarcón started playing football at the age of 14 at Club Pumas. Alarcon is now playing with the 49ers. He originally entered the NFL after signing with the Dallas Cowboys as part of the National Football League's International Player Pathway Program on April 28, 2020. Alarcon has spent his four-year NFL career on the Cowboys practice squad as part of the program— The first Mexican to play on the team. He aims to e a role model for his country and played college football at the Monterrey Institute of Technology (ITESM).
Arturo "Arte" Moreno is an American businessman. On May 15, 2003, he became the first Mexican-American to own a major sports team in the United States when he purchased the Anaheim Angels baseball team from the Walt Disney Company for $184 million. He donates millions of dollars annually to the Moreno Family Foundation, which supports underprivileged youth and education nonprofits. He made his fortune in the billboard advertising business, which he sold in 1999.
SPORTS MARISSA SOLIS
SPORTS LIONEL MESSI
78
Solis has served since November 2021 as the Senior Vice President of Global Brand and Consumer Marketing at the National Football League. Prior to this, Solis spent 18 years at Pepsico where she held numerous marketing leadership roles in brand marketing, portfolio marketing, partnerships and omnichannel media. Solis was a management consultant at Deloitte Consulting from September 2000 to November 2003. She began her career in 1995 as a Brand Manager in Procter & Gamble Latin America.
SPORTS CARLOS CORREA
MLB Shortsto (Houston Astros) Puerto Rican
@CarlosCorrea
@CarlosCorrea
79
2012 Drafted No. 1 overall by the Houston Astros out of Puerto Rico Academy 2015 MLB debut; won AL Rookie of the Year 2017 Started All-Star Game as youngest shortstop since Alex Rodriguez 2021 Won Gold Glove and Platinum Glove 2022–2025 Played four seasons with the Minnesota Twins; career stats by 2024: .275 average, 187 July 2025 Traded back to Houston Astros
Carlos Correa is celebrated as one of Major League Baseball’s premier shortstops, known for his defensive skills, clutch hitting, and leadership. He played a key role in his team’s championship victory and has earned multiple All-Star and Gold Glove honors. Beyond baseball, Correa is deeply involved in philanthropy, supporting youth development, disaster relief efforts, and programs that uplift underserved communities. His combination of athletic talent, leadership, and community engagement makes him a respected figure on and off the field.
Inter Miami in Major League Soccer Argentine Leomessi
2000 Joined FC Barcelona’s youth academy, La Masia, at age 13 2004 Made first-team debut for Barcelona at age 17. 2009–2015 Won multiple UEFA Champions League titles and Ballon d’Or awards, becoming one of the most decorated players in history 2021 Joined Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) after leaving FC Barcelona 2022 Captained Argentina to victory in the FIFA World Cup, earning the Golden Ball as tournament’s best player 2023 Joined Inter Miami CF
Messi remains one of the most influential and celebrated soccer players globally. His career achievements include multiple Ballon d'Or awards and numerous league and Champions League titles with FC Barcelona. Messi's move to Inter Miami in MLS has attracted significant attention, highlighting the growing appeal of the league and further solidifying his status as a global soccer icon. His continued success and impact on the sport make him a pivotal figure in modern soccer history.
SPORTS ISIAH PACHECO
NFL Running Back (Chiefs) Puerto Rican - Dominican
@lil_poppy856
80
2022 Finished his rookie campaign fifth in the franchise record book for rushing attempts (170) and rushing yards (830) in one's rookie season. His 830 rushing yards was fourth-best amongst NFL rookies 2022 Scored five rushing touchdowns, leading the team and recording the second-most amongst NFL rookies 2023 Won Super Bowl LVII with Chiefs; scored a TD in the game 2025 Heading into fourth season; career totals to date include 2× Super Bowl champion and 12 rushing TDs
Isiah Pacheco’s journey to the NFL reflects perseverance and determination. Known for his speed, toughness, and work ethic, he quickly became a standout player, contributing to championship-level success. His story of overcoming challenges and achieving excellence at the highest level of football has made him an inspiration to fans and aspiring athletes alike. Pacheco embodies resilience, discipline, and leadership, demonstrating that dedication and talent can open doors to opportunity and leave a lasting impact in professional sports.
JAIME JAQUEZ JR.
SPORTS NIK BONITTO
NFL Linebacker (Broncos)
Jaime Jaquez Jr. is recognized for his versatility, defensive skill, and relentless work ethic. His performance on the basketball court quickly established him as a top-tier athlete, earning him a spot in professional basketball. Beyond his athletic achievements, he emphasizes leadership, perseverance, and inspiring future generations of athletes. Jaquez’s dedication to his craft and his ability to thrive under pressure make him a role model for aspiring players, highlighting the value of hard work, commitment, and excellence.
SPORTS STEVE AVILA
NFL OL (Rams)
Mexican - American
@stevelavila
83
2023 Drafted 36th overall in 2nd round by the Los Angeles Rams 2023 Started all 17 games as a rookie
Steve Avila is celebrated for his strength, consistency, and technical skill in professional football. His dedication to training, discipline, and performance has earned him recognition as a reliable and effective player. Avila’s commitment to excellence reflects his ability to thrive in one of the most demanding positions in sports. He serves as a role model for aspiring athletes, showing how focus, perseverance, and strategic preparation can lead to success at the highest level while maintaining professionalism and leadership within a team.
Cuban - Haitian @nik_hendrix
Nik Bonitto is a dynamic linebacker known for his speed, instincts, and defensive versatility. He has distinguished himself with a strong work ethic, leadership, and the ability to perform in high-pressure situations. Bonitto’s dedication to excellence on the field has made him a standout athlete and a mentor to younger players. Off the field, he emphasizes discipline, resilience, and community engagement, serving as a role model for aspiring athletes seeking to balance professional success with personal growth and positive influence.
SPORTS AZUCENA MALDONADO
Founder & CEO, Latina Golfers Association
Mexican-American
@LatinaGolfers
@LatinaGolfers
84
2008 Founded the Latina Golfers Association to promote golf as a business networking tool for Latinas and to increase diversity in the sport. 2010s Expanded programs nationwide, partnering with corporations and nonprofits to empower women through golf 2020s Recognized as a leader in both sports diversity and women’s empowerment in business.
Azucena Maldonado has transformed golf into a platform for empowerment and community building. Through her leadership, she has introduced thousands of women to the sport while promoting personal growth, networking, and cultural pride. Maldonado emphasizes inclusion, mentorship, and opportunities for leadership, creating a supportive environment for participants. Her vision and dedication have inspired women of all backgrounds to engage in golf and pursue excellence, making her a respected advocate for women’s advancement and a pioneer in leveraging sports for empowerment and social change.
VOICES
JAVIER PALOMAREZ
President & CEO, United States Hispanic Business Council
American
@JPalomarez
85
2015 Mexican Government's Ohtli Award, the highest honor for non-Mexican citizens 2018 Spain’s Fundacion Inspirando Lideres – Most Influential Hispanic in America 2022 Prestigious Marquis Who's Who Biographical Registry 2023 'Disruptor' in the business world by Medium Magazine
VOICES CYNTHIA HUDSON
86
Senior Vice President and Managing Director, CNN en Español and Hispanic Strategy for CNN/U.S.
Cuban-American
@cynthiacnn
1992 Became vice president of programming and production for the Telemundo Network 1997 Served as senior vice president and editorial director of Cosmopolitan Television 2010 Began her job as senior vice president and general manager of CNN en Espanñol and Hispanic Strategy for CNN/U.S.
Palomarez has a breadth of knowledge garnered from over 20 years of professional experience and workforce leadership. He has held senior leadership positions in marketing, business development, brand strategy and public relations and is credited with the creation of specialized insurance, telecommunications and financial services products, for leading corporations such as Allstate, Sprint and Bank of America.
Cynthia Hudson is senior vice president and managing director of CNN en Español and Hispanic strategy for CNN/U.S. Hudson oversees all aspects of CNN’s Spanish-language media businesses, including newsgathering, editorial content, programming, production, operations and personnel, of the CNN en Español 24/7 television news networks, CnnEspañol.com and CNN en Español Radio.
VOICES LILI GIL VALLETTA
CEO and Co-Founder, Culture+ Group Colombian
@liligil
@liligilusa 1994
87
Influential in Healthcare
VOICES LIN-MANUEL MIRANDA
Composer, Playwright, Actor, Singer
Puerto Rican-American
@Lin_Manuel
@_lin.manuelmiranda
88
2008 In the Heights won two Tony for Best Musical, Best Original Score "In the Heights" opened in March of 2008 at the Richard Rodgers stage in Broadway and ran for 1,184 performances. 2016 Hamilton won 11 Tony awards and a Pulitzer 2016 Named one of the l00 Most Influential People by Time Magazine
Lili is a former corporate executive turned entrepreneur, Cultural Intelligence® expert, and television business commentator known for her analysis of data and cultural trends to impact businesses. Lili is one of less than 1% of Latinas serving on a Fortune 500+ public board, as an independent director for the global youth retailer Zumiez and RCN Television. She also serves as Chairwoman of the FRIENDS of the National American Latino Museum and is an investor and operating executive board member for AUA Private Equity Partners.
Lin-Manuel Miranda is a multi-talented artist. He wrote his first play, In The Heights, in 1999, but it took him eight years to bring it to the stage. After reading the biography of Alexander Hamilton, Miranda was inspired to create a musical, which is his most famous work to date. Hamilton has received several awards and nominations, including the record-breaking 16 Tony nominations (winning 11), the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album.
JANELLE RODRIGUEZ
VOICES
LILIA LUCIANO
Journalist, filmmaker, and podcast host, currently working as a National Correspondent and anchor for CBS News
90
Puerto Rican-American
@lilialuciano
@lilialuciano
2010 National Correspondent at NBC News 2014 Freelance
Janelle Rodriguez is NBC News’ Executive Vice President of Programming, overseeing NBC Nightly News with Tom Llamas, the network’s 24/7 streaming news network NBC News NOW, and breaking news special coverage. Under Rodriguez’s leadership, NBC News NOW has become the fastest growing streaming news network in the U.S. She also oversaw NBC News’ “Decision 2024” programming, including the 40+ straight live hours of election coverage on NBC News NOW, which delivered the streaming network’s largest audience ever and most-watched day on record with over 100 million views.
VOICES JOSE ANDRES
Chef Spanish
@chefjoseandres
@chefjoseandres
91
2003 Best Chef, Mid-Atlantic Region 2009 Chef of the Year, GQ 2010 Orden de las Artes y las Letras de España; Vilcek Prize in Culinary Arts. 2012
Named one of Time's 100 most influential people 2015 National Humanities Medal; appointed ambassador for citizenship and naturalization by President Obama 2016 2 Michelin stars for minibar by José Andrés 2018 James Beard Foundation Humanitarian of the Year 2022 Service to America Leadership Award
Chef José Andres is a pioneer of Spanish tapas in the United States and owns an award-wnning group of more than 30 restaurants ranging in a variety of culinary experiences from a food truck to his multi-location vegetable-focused fast casual Beefsteak, to world-class tasting menus like minibar by José Andrés and Somni, both of which have received two Michelin stars. A true celebrity that has gone beyond his original culinary universe to become a global ambassador for good causes.
Lilia Luciano is an award-winning journalist, filmmaker, and storyteller known for her investigative reporting and documentary work. She has covered complex topics including social justice, climate, and immigration, bringing depth, clarity, and cultural insight to her reporting. Her work uplifts diverse perspectives, highlighting resilience, identity, and human experience. Recognized with multiple honors, she blends investigative rigor with creative storytelling, making her a leading voice in media. Luciano’s commitment to excellence has inspired audiences and future journalists alike.
VOICES ILIA CALDERÓN
Journalist
Colombian
@iliacalderon
@iliacalderon
92
2017 she won an Emmy Award for her 2017 interview of Christopher Barker, the Ku Klux Klan imperial wizard, she made history when she replaced former co-anchor Maria Elena Salinas on Noticiero Univision. This made her the first Afro-Latina to anchor a weekday primetime newscast for a major broadcast network in the United States 2020 she co-hosted the eleventh Democratic Presidential Debate on CNN
Ilia Calderón is co-anchor of Univision Network’s flagship evening newscast, “Noticiero Univision.” and she also co-hosts Univision’s primetime newsmagazine, “Aquí y Ahora.” Calderón is the first Afro-Latina anchoring an evening newscast for a major broadcast network in the United States. She previously a similar milestone in her native Colombia, was the first black woman to ever host a national news program in her country.
VOICES NICOLE FERNANDEZ
93
Spanish Senior Associate Coordinator, Social Media Marketing & Innovation, Las MayoresMajor League Baseball (MLB) Colombian-American @nicolefernandez11.11 2017 received the award “Los
VOICES
BENITO (BAD BUNNY) MARTÍNEZ OCASIO
Rapper
Nicole Fernandez is a freelance Sports Journalist, Content Creator, Philanthropist and Children’s Book Author . She currently resides in her hometown Miami, FL. She’s bilingual and fluent in both English & Spanish. Since May 2021 she began working with Las Mayores- Major League Baseball. She has a passion for sports, journalism and how both bring people together. Her key attributes are that besides reporting she writes, shoots and edits her own stories in both English and Spanish.
VOICES AMERICA FERRERA
Actress, Producer, and Activist American
AmericaFerrera
AmericaFerrera
95
2002 Made her feature film debut in "Real Women Have Curves." 2006 Starred in "Ugly Betty," winning an Emmy Award 2016 Co-founded Harness to engage diverse communities in social change 2020 Actively mobilized Latino voters for the U.S. presidential election 2023 Starred in the critically acclaimed "Barbie" film 2024 Continued mobilizing Latino voters. Intensified efforts for immigrant rights and gender equality
Ferrera's role in the 2023 "Barbie" film highlighted diverse stories and provided significant representation in mainstream media. In 2024, she continued to play a crucial role in increasing political participation among Latino communities, focusing on mobilizing voters ahead of the elections. Additionally, Ferrera intensified her advocacy for immigrant rights, partnering with organizations to support comprehensive immigration reform. She also supported gender equality initiatives, participating in campaigns and speaking at major conferences to address workplace discrimination and harassment.
94
Puerto Rico @sanbenito @badbunny.pr
2016 First song charted on the US Billboard Hot 100 at number one and number three 2018 his debut album was awarded a Latin Grammy for Best Urban Music Album 2020 he
Bad Bunny won the Latin Grammy for best album two years in a row. In 2020, he received the award for two albums he released that year: YHLQMDLG and Oasis, this one was released with J Balvin. In 2021, he received the award again for his albun El Último Tour del Mundo. He was also the artist who received the most Billboard Latin Music Awards last year (ten in total) and was the first Latin urban music artist on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine.
VOICES AARÓN SÁNCHEZ
Celebrity Chef, Judge on MasterChef, Restaurateur and the founder of the Aarón Sánchez Impact Fund
Mexican-American
@AaronSanchez @chefaaronsanchez
1996 Began professional culinary career in New York under Chef Paul Prudhomme. 2000 Rose to prominence as a chef, opened restaurants including Johnny Sánchez. 2003 & 2011 Published cookbooks La Comida del Barrio and Simple Food, Big Flavor 2014 Hosted Emmy-nominated Cooking Channel series Taco Trip 2016 Founded the Aarón Sánchez Impact Fund to support Latino youth in culinary arts. 2017 Became co-host and judge on FOX’s MasterChef, later joining MasterChef Junio Now – Celebrity chef, restaurateur, author, and TV personality.
Aarón Sánchez has built a distinguished career in the culinary world, blending traditional flavors with modern innovation. He is recognized for his skill, creativity, and commitment to mentoring the next generation of chefs. Beyond his work in restaurants and television, Sánchez actively promotes social impact through initiatives supporting culinary education and community development. His influence extends globally, inspiring aspiring chefs and food enthusiasts alike while raising awareness about culture, tradition, and the transformative power of food as both art and community-building tool.
VOICES
PATI JINICH
Chef, TV Host of Pati’s Mexican Table (PBS), Author Mexican
@PatiJinich
@patijinich
2007 Became resident chef at the Mexican Cultural Institute in Washington, D.C. 2013 Debuted PBS series Pati’s Mexican Table; won James Beard Awards and received multiple Emmy nominations so far, and it is premiering its 14th season at the end of September 2025 2016 & 2021 Published two more cookbooks, Mexican Today and Treasures of the Mexican Table (NYT bestseller), and has a new one coming out in the Fall of 2026 2022 Launched PBS primetime docuseries La Frontera with Pati Jinich and Pati Jinich Explores Panamericana (premiered Apr 2025), exploring cross-American food and culture
Pati Jinich is celebrated for her dedication to showcasing authentic culinary traditions through storytelling and media. She has shared her expertise in cooking, education, and culture across television, books, and digital platforms. Her work highlights the richness of culinary heritage while engaging audiences with approachable techniques and recipes. Jinich has inspired countless home cooks and culinary enthusiasts, emphasizing the connection between food, family, and culture. She continues to elevate Latin cuisine globally through education, media, and advocacy.
VOICES MARIBEL PEREZ WADSWORTH
Knight Foundation as President & CEO
99
Cuban-American
@mwadsworth @knightfdn
1993 Earned B.S.C. in Journalism from University of Miami 1994 Began journalism career at Associated Press and then Rockford Register Star 2015 Became Gannett’s first Chief Strategy & Transformation Officer 2018 Served as President of Gannett Media and Publisher of USA Today; oversaw the winning of five Pulitzer Prizes in five years 2024 Appointed President & CEO of the Knight Foundation 2025 Named one of the leaders in Time 100 Philanthropy
She has spent her career driving initiatives that strengthen communities, advance civic engagement, and support nonprofit innovation. She has led large-scale programs focused on education, arts, and technology access, promoting equity and inclusion. Recognized for her strategic leadership, Wadsworth fosters partnerships across sectors, encouraging collaboration and impactful solutions. Her work emphasizes sustainability, community empowerment, and creating opportunities for meaningful participation. She is admired for her ability to combine vision, advocacy, and operational excellence to achieve lasting social impact.
Actor
Chilean-American
@pazscalispunk
@pascalispunk
He has emerged as one of the most versatile and compelling actors of his generation. Known for his captivating performances across television, film, and streaming platforms, he has received acclaim for his depth, charisma, and dedication to his craft. Pascal brings authenticity and nuance to each role, connecting with audiences worldwide. Beyond acting, he advocates for social causes, uses his platform to amplify underrepresented voices, and inspires emerging performers with his work ethic, artistic vision, and commitment to storytelling that resonates across cultures.
VOICES
LELE (ELEONORA) PONS
100
YouTuber, Actress, Singer, Social Media Personality
Venezuelan-American @lelepons
@lelepons
2013 Rose on Vine; became most-followed woman and first to reach 1 billion loops 2016 Transitioned to YouTube (18M+ subscribers), expanded into music, acting, and hosting 2020 starred in YouTube docuseries “The Secret Life of Lele Pons” Currently hosts a Spotify podcast “Best Kept Secrets"
Lele Pons has become a global entertainment sensation, known for her creativity, humor, and versatility across digital and traditional media. She engages audiences through social media, music, acting, and online content creation, reaching millions worldwide. Pons has transformed online platforms into spaces for storytelling, comedy, and musical performance, while also advocating for social causes and mental health awareness. Her influence inspires aspiring creators to innovate, embrace their individuality, and leverage digital media to connect with audiences and build communities across borders.
VOICES ADA MONZON
Chief Meteorologist, Wapa Media
Puerto Rican
@adamonzon
@adamonzon
1989 Earned Master’s degree in Meteorology, Florida State University 1990s Began career in Puerto Rico, becoming the first female broadcast meteorologist on the island 2000s
Joined Univision Puerto Rico and later WAPA
Media as Chief Meteorologist 2015 Founded
EcoExploratorio: Museo de Ciencias de Puerto Rico, a nonprofit dedicated to science education
Present Serves as Chief Meteorologist at WAPA Media and continues her leadership in science communication.
Ada Monzon has established herself as a trusted voice in weather reporting and broadcast journalism. She is recognized for her clarity, reliability, and ability to communicate complex meteorological information to the public. Beyond reporting, Monzon engages in community outreach, educating audiences on safety, preparedness, and environmental awareness. Her work demonstrates dedication to professional excellence, accurate communication, and public service. She continues to inspire aspiring journalists and meteorologists while serving as a respected figure in media and science communication.
IF YOU WANT CHANGE: START DOING IT YOURSELF, DON’T WAIT ON SOMEONE ELSE
SEN. ALEX PADILLA, CALIFORNIA
Courtesy of Alex Padilla Carlos Cuevas
You grew up in Pacoima as the son of Mexican immigrants. What values or lessons from your upbringing have stayed with you throughout your life and career?
AP: With only elementary school education, my parents immigrated to California from Mexico in the 1960s in search of a better life. For forty years, my dad worked as a short order cook and my mom cleaned houses while they worked to raise my sister, my brother, and me in the proud, working-class community of Pacoima in the San Fernando Valley. So more than anything, my siblings and I have a deep appreciation for the sacrifices and hard work it took to give us better opportunities.
When we were kids, my parents taught us the importance of getting a good education. I can still remember my dad interrupting me when I was studying as a kid to say: “When you grow up, I want you to work with your mind, and not your back.” I took that seriously. And so, when I eventually had the opportunity to attend the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, I knew it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.
Yet even then, I still never planned on getting involved in politics. At MIT, I earned my degree in mechanical engineering. But when I came home from college in 1994, I found hateful TV ads and a statewide ballot measure known as Proposition 187 — which essentially targeted immigrant families and communities like mine. I grew up around some of the hardest working, selfless people in the country. So seeing a Republican Governor who was up for reelection, but down in the polls trying to attack and scapegoat immigrants for political gain was offensive.
That’s what ultimately led me to get involved, to march, to work on political campaigns, and to eventually run for office. I learned then that if you want to make change anywhere in America, you can’t wait for someone else to do it.
Before entering public service, you studied mechanical engineering at MIT. How did that early academic path shape the way you approach problem-solving and leadership today?
AP: People ask me: “How do you go from engineering to politics?” I like to tell people: it’s perfectly logical. Engineers are trained to solve problems. Isn’t that what policymakers are supposed to do?
I LEARNED THEN THAT IF YOU WANT TO MAKE CHANGE ANYWHERE IN AMERICA, YOU CAN’T WAIT FOR SOMEONE ELSE TO DO IT.
101 MOST INFLUENTIAL LATINOS 2025
In all seriousness, just consider how important scientists, engineers, and other critical thinkers will continue to be in tackling the most pressing policy issues of our time.
From combatting climate change and protecting our planet; to revolutionizing health diagnostics and discovering the next lifesaving vaccine or a cure for cancer; to pioneering America’s leadership in the new frontiers of cybersecurity, supercomputing, and artificial intelligence — much of our success as a country and as a society will rely on the greatest technical minds in the country.
Looking back at your trajectory from the Los Angeles City Council to the U.S. Senate, what moments do you consider turning points in your career?
AP: Well across nearly three decades in public service, there have been more
I WANT TO MAKE LIFE BETTER FOR COMMUNITIES LIKE THE ONE I GREW UP IN.
than a few big moments in my career. Whether that’s moments of celebration, like winning my first race for Los Angeles City Council in 1999; challenging moments, like serving as Acting Mayor of the City of Los Angeles during the attacks on September 11th; or some of the biggest legislative battles of my career, like the fight to pass the Inflation Reduction Act here in the Senate and deliver historic funding to combat climate change.
But I’ll give you a few brief moments I’m proudest of:
As someone whose mom was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes — a problem that’s particularly bad in the Latino community — when I first got to the state senate, I was thinking more about how folks like my mom could eat better. At home, it’s easy to look at the side of the cereal box and check out the nutrition information, but at restaurants it’s not always as easy. And so the very first bill I introduced in the state senate was one that required chain restaurants to post calorie and nutrition information on their menus. It started off as an idea, took two years to make it happen, but not only did we eventually get it done in California, now we see similar efforts all across the country — so I’m very proud of that.
In the state senate, I’m also proud of the work we did to streamline the process for community college students in California to be able to transfer. We took a complicated system and made it more predictable for students to transfer to a four-year university and earn a bachelor’s degree with less red tape.
As Secretary of State in California, we made huge strides to make voting more secure and more accessible for
voters. We fought for automatic and same day voter registration, expanded vote-by-mail and in-person early voting — all these efforts that ended up being not only critical for voting when the COVID pandemic eventually hit, but led to record voter registration and record voter turnout.
And in the U.S. Senate, a few things that come to mind are passing the historic Inflation Reduction Act to combat climate change . . . confirming Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court . . . and passing my first standalone piece of legislation called the FIRE Act, to help FEMA better prepare for and respond to wildfires.
That’s just a few, but as always, more to come.
You’ve held leadership roles at the city, state, and now national level. What are the biggest differences you’ve experienced in serving communities across those stages?
AP: There’s an old saying in Washington that goes: “All politics is local” — and that’s still true today. No matter if you’re a city council member, a state senator, or a United States Senator, your constituents just want to live in a safe neighborhood, be able to afford their home and their groceries, and have a government that’s responsible to their problems. So in many ways the best education you could have for ANY office is to first serve at the local level.
Having said that, over my years in public service, I get less calls for local potholes and flickering streetlights than I did 20 years ago — but maybe now I’m fighting to pass bills like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that will help local communities with the same.
Going from LA City Council to the California State Senate to the United States Senate also presented some new challenges. Every one of those bodies required learning how to build consensus across districts and across beliefs. But at the same time, there’s a few less MAGA Republicans on the LA City Council than there are in the U.S. Senate.
So it’s required working across the aisle and building even broader coalitions in each new job.
Beyond titles and roles, what do you hope your legacy will be as someone who has dedicated much of his career to public service?
AP: I want to make life better for communities like the one I grew up in. I know what it’s like to grow up in a place where you don’t see yourself represented in government, or where your neighborhood can sometimes feel like it’s being left behind. I want to make life more affordable, government and voting more accessible, and the American Dream more achievable for immigrant and working-class communities.
But in addition to that, to the extent that I think about legacy at all, I think about my three boys and the world I want to leave behind for them. That means everything from combatting climate change to protect the future of our planet, to defending our democracy so that their generation can one day take the mantle.
As you think about the years ahead, what personal or professional goals continue to motivate and inspire you?
AP: There’s no question we’re facing some big challenges in our country. When I came to the United States Senate, I set out to defend and expand the American Dream for more families. That hasn’t changed.
What has changed is that we now have a president and a Republican Congress who wake up every day and make that Dream harder to achieve for average families. They’re stripping Americans of their health care while cutting taxes for the wealthy. They’re raising the cost of groceries and gas and clothing and throwing local businesses into uncertainty. And they’re actively attacking our democracy and voting rights to try to rig the rules of the game in their favor. This isn’t just some political fight, it’s an attack on who we are as a nation.
And so each day that I wake up and come to work I try to remind my colleagues about what working families are really facing out there, and I try to be part of the solution that will keep the American Dream within reach for more Americans. That’s what inspires me.
CLAUDIA ROMO EDELMAN
FOUNDER & CEO, WE ARE ALL HUMAN AND HISPANIC STAR
BRINGING THE LATINO AGENDA INTO THE GLOBAL AGENDA
Claudia Romo Edelman is a marketer, activist, author, and now founder. Over the past 30 years, she has worked at the highest levels of diplomacy, global development, and brand building—serving as a diplomat for the Mexican government and as a senior official for organizations like the United Nations, UNICEF, the Global Fund, and the World Economic Forum.
CLAUDIA HELPED launch the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) from the Executive Office of the Secretary-General of the United Nations, and later co-created and helped launch the SDG Lions at the Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity, a groundbreaking recognition of purpose-driven work in the global creative industry.
But when she moved to the U.S. 11 years ago, she saw something urgent: a powerful, growing Latino community—20% of the U.S. population and contributing $4.1 trillion to GDP—was largely fragmented and invisible in business, media, and leadership.
She realized Latinos were facing a narrative and branding crisis—one that creates barriers to our potential, because perception shapes reality.
So she launched the We Are All Human Foundation and the Hispanic Star platform to reframe and elevate the perception of Latinos in the U.S. Through tools like the Hispanic Promise, she has mobilized over 350 companies to commit to Latino advancement. Through partnerships with research institutions, media outlets, and corporate leaders, the foundation has delivered data, content, and insights that help change the story, remove harmful stereotypes, and build a sense of unity across sectors.
Claudia has brought the Latino agenda to global stages—Davos, Cannes, the UN, the World Bank—and then back home to inspire and equip Latinos to see themselves differently. Her work has helped transform decision-makers into allies and turn underrepresentation into urgency.
The impact is measurable: according to the Hispanic Sentiment Study, awareness of Latinos in the U.S. grew from just 14% in 2018 to 77% in 2025.
In recognition of her work, Claudia was named one of TIME Magazine’s Top 17 Hispanics and People Magazine’s 25 Latinas Poderosas in 2025.
Now, Claudia is stepping into her next act: entrepreneurship. She’s set out to bring Sotol, a little-known spirit from Northern Mexico, to the world.
Sotol is the next big thing after tequila and mezcal (The New York Times said so), but it’s also the story of a plant that reflects the Latino story itself: It grows in the harshest conditions. The female blooms only four times in 100 years. It pollinates through hardship. It doesn’t demand attention—it earns it.
The Romo family has been producing Sotol for over 40 years in Chihuahua, passing the tradition across four generations. Now, Claudia is taking that legacy to the global stage—not just as a product, but as a platform to elevate Mexican craftsmanship, give back to the communities where they operate, and continue advancing the Latino narrative through entrepreneurship.
In 2025, she signed a joint venture with Casa Komos Brands Group (CKBG), the powerhouse behind one of the most successful ultra-premium tequila portfolios. With four exits, distribution in 50 states and over 40 countries, and deep marketing and hospitality expertise, CKBG gives Sotol Romo the platform it needs to scale— and the credibility to lead a new category.
No one knows what Sotol is yet. But Claudia Romo Edelman intends to make it global.
To make Sotol Romo the category-defining brand.
And to prove, once again, that Latinos don’t just contribute to culture—we create it.
Latino Leaders Courtesy of Claudia Romo Edelman
REIMAGINING MUSEUMS, PRESERVING HERITAGE
When Lourdes Ramos reflects on her role as President and CEO of the Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA), her words echo both purpose and transformation. “It’s an amazing opportunity,” she says, “to make accessible and amplify the experience and knowledge of Latino and Latin American art—not only in the United States but internationally.”
Under her leadership, MOLAA has evolved far beyond its Southern California roots. It now stands as a global cultural force, bridging heritage and innovation. Lourdes’ story, however, is not just about institutional change.
It is about reimagining the role of museums as agents of education, identity, and community power.
A Lifelong Bond with the Arts
Born and raised in Puerto Rico, Lourdes’ connection to the arts began early, shaped by family, culture, and public service. Her father worked in the División para la Educación de la Comunidad, a division that often produced educational films for the Puerto Rican community. There, she was immersed in a world of graphic artists, filmmakers, and writers—individuals committed to using media as a tool for social betterment.
“My first contact with art was through sculpture—especially clay,” she recalls. “Then came theater, cinema, and TV production. I explored every angle of creation. It became a natural process, deeply rooted in family and culture.”
DR.LOURDES RAMOS
PRESIDENT AND CEO OF THE MUSEUM OF LATIN AMERICAN ART
by a belief in the power of art as both expression and education. With roots in performance, visual arts, and media, Lourdes developed a multifaceted artistic identity—one that would later inform her leadership style and curatorial philosophy.
Transforming Puerto Rico’s National Museum
Before joining MOLAA, Lourdes led the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico for over a decade. Her tenure was marked by institutional transformation, innovation in education, and community engagement.
“One of the most important things I did,” she says, “was to take the museum to the community.”
At the time, the museum, though nationally recognized, lacked meaningful connection with local audiences. Lourdes spearheaded efforts to change that. Her team launched programs that invited public participation and positioned the museum as an accessible cultural hub.
She also led the museum through a fast-tracked accreditation process with the American Alliance
That early exposure grew into a vocation, driven
of Museums (AAM), achieving the distinction in just three years—a national record. That experience later positioned her as an accreditation commissioner and peer reviewer, further embedding her influence across the U.S. Museum landscape.
Three initiatives stand out from her Puerto Rico legacy. PROA was an artist support program offering training, publications, and professional resources. Activarte, an interactive educational gallery sponsored by Fundacion Angel Ramos, was one of the first of its kind in Latin America, transforming how visitors, especially children, engaged with exhibitions. And La Campechada, a public festival honoring Puerto Rican artist José Campeche, remains one of the island’s most celebrated cultural events to this day.
“These were not just projects,” she notes. “They were ways to place art in the hands of the people.”
Leadership Shaped by Global Vision
Lourdes’ approach is informed by rigorous training and a global perspective. Her academic journey took her to the Universidad de Barcelona, where she helped pioneer art administration as a formal academic discipline. Her doctoral thesis explored art in public spaces, drawing from case studies in Barcelona, London, and Paris.
Later, her experience at the Getty Leadership Program solidified her executive vision. “It opened my eyes to best practices in administration, and institutional leadership,” she says.
This blend of academic foundation, curatorial experience, and administrative acumen has shaped her unique professional style—one that is holistic, multidisciplinary, and open to innovation.
Art installation Work That Disappears by Teresa Burga, part of the exhibition ARTEÔNICA: Art, Science, and Technology in Latin America Today at the Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA). Photo by Yubo Dong, ofstudio photography.
101 MOST INFLUENTIAL LATINOS 2025
Building a Global Platform for Latino and Latin American Art
At MOLAA, that vision has reached new heights. Lourdes has served at the helm for eight years, guiding the museum through growth, accreditation, and international recognition. She is particularly proud of recent global milestones: MOLAA’s participation in the Venice Biennale—as one of only two U.S. museums invited—and its presence at an all-women show in Dubai earlier this year.
“These moments are medullar to our journey,” she says. “They signal that MOLAA is no longer a regional museum. We are recognized worldwide as a key institution for Latino and Latin American art.”
Yet the most ambitious project lies just ahead: a $75 million expansion campaign that promises to redefine the museum’s role in the 21st century. The new design, led by acclaimed architect Enrique Norten, will create the first Latino and Latin American museum with an open-storage research center in the United States. It will also become a hub for university partnerships, artist residencies, and academic research—solidifying Southern California as the epicenter for Latino art heritage.
“It’s not just a building,” Lourdes explains. “It’s a repository for culture, a living archive, and a space of innovation. This will be a legacy for the next generation.”
Preserving Heritage, Empowering Identity
Asked how she sees her role in preserving Hispanic heritage, Lourdes answers with characteristic humility. “It’s not just me,” she says. “It’s the institution. It’s the team. It’s the staff who work every day to make this vision a reality.”
Still, there’s no denying her personal imprint. She has reshaped what it means to lead a museum—not as a caretaker of objects, but as an advocate for education, inclusion, and global cultural dialogue. Under her leadership, MOLAA has become not only a guardian of history but also a catalyst for the future.
“MOLAA is a treasure,” she affirms. “It belongs to all Latinos and Latin Americans. And it needs their support to continue growing.”
With bold vision, tireless commitment, and a deep love for the communities she serves, Lourdes Ramos proves that museums are more than institutions. They are living spaces—where heritage is honored, voices are amplified, and futures are imagined.
JORGE A. PLASENCIA: AN ENTREPRENEUR’S JOURNEY OF VISION AND PURPOSE
When Jorge A. Plasencia co-founded Republica Havas in 2006, the marketing industry looked very different. Social media was just emerging, and most agencies underestimated the influence of fast-growing cross- cultural audiences. Plasencia, the son of Cuban exiles, saw an opportunity others missed: a vast cultural and creative white space. Nearly 20 years later, he is not only Chairman & CEO of Republica Havas and the Global Chief Client Officer of Havas Creative Network, but also a proven entrepreneur whose instincts, perseverance, and vision built one of the nation’s most respected communications agencies.
JORGE A. PLASENCIA CEO, REPUBLIC HAVAS
PLASENCIA comes from a proud lineage of entrepreneurs. On his father’s side, prior to the revolution, his family helped shape Cuba’s renowned tobacco industry, while on his mother’s side, they built one of Havana’s popular soft drink companies. That heritage of enterprise and resilience instilled in him a deep appreciation for hard work, faith, ingenuity, and risk-taking, qualities that would later define his own career.
Before launching Republica Havas, Plasencia built his career as an executive in media, music and entertainment, and sports. He served as Vice President at Univision, overseeing radio operations nationwide; led marketing, strategy, and communications at Estefan Enterprises while working closely with global artists like Gloria Estefan and Shakira; and made history as the first Director of Hispanic Marketing for the Miami Marlins, helping guide the team to its first World Series championship. These formative experiences gave him the skills, network, and confidence to launch a venture of his own.
That venture was Republica Havas. Launching on the eve of the Great Recession, Plasencia and his co-founder faced immediate headwinds. While many businesses pulled back, they pressed forward, taking on smaller projects, proving themselves campaign by campaign, and turning persistence into lasting partnerships with world-class brands. “We didn’t retreat—we doubled down,” he recalls. From the very beginning, Republica Havas has embraced technology as a core driver of creativity and growth, working at the forefront of innovation. That conviction became the foundation for the agency’s consistent double-digit growth over the year, leading to its recent recognition as The Drum’s inaugural Miami Agency of the Year in 2025.
101 MOST INFLUENTIAL LATINOS 2025
JORGE A. PLASENCIA
“FROM BOARDROOMS TO GRASSROOTS COMMUNITIES, PLASENCIA’S STORY IS A REMINDER THAT ENTREPRENEURSHIP IS NOT ONLY ABOUT PROFIT, BUT ALSO ABOUT PURPOSE. ”
Over the years, Plasencia’s entrepreneurial achievements have been recognized with some of the highest honors in business. He was named an Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year, received the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce CEO of the Year award, and was honored with the Pioneer of the Year award by Hispanic PR Association (HPRA) for his groundbreaking contributions to the industry.
But Plasencia’s vision for entrepreneurship has always extended beyond business. At just 17, he co-founded Amigos For Kids. What began as a grassroots effort has grown into a leading nonprofit improving the lives of under-resourced children and families through education, advocacy, and support services. Nearly 35 years later, Amigos stands as a model of social entrepreneurship—proof that the same qualities that build global companies can also transform communities.
“Purpose and perseverance go hand in hand,” Plasencia says. “Both are at the heart of true entrepreneurship.”
He currently serves on several boards, including as board chair of the Miami Dade College Foundation, helping steward the largest and one of the most important educational and cultural institutions in the nation. He also served on the board of directors of TotalBank until its acquisition by Spain’s Banco Popular, gaining firsthand experience in compliance, corporate governance, and international finance. No surprise that his story and that of Republica are featured in Miami’s Freedom Tower, the iconic landmark of the exile experience, as a Cuban American success story and testament to entrepreneurial resilience.
Looking ahead, Plasencia believes Latino entrepreneurs are poised to continue leading across industries. “We are no longer emerging, we are mainstream,” he says. “Our challenge now is to continue building companies, creating opportunities, giving back, and leaving a legacy of impact.”
From boardrooms to grassroots communities, Plasencia’s story is a reminder that entrepreneurship is not only about profit, but also about purpose. His journey, from young executive roles in sports, music, and media, to building Republica Havas into a global player, while simultaneously shaping Amigos For Kids into a leading nonprofit, proves that conviction, creativity, and character remain the ultimate building blocks of lasting success.
“LOOKING AHEAD, PLASENCIA BELIEVES LATINO ENTREPRENEURS ARE POISED TO CONTINUE LEADING ACROSS INDUSTRIES.”
Courtesy of Republica Havas
OPENING DOORS THROUGH GOLF
AZUCENA MALDONADO
FOUNDER, LATINA GOLFERS ASSOCIATION
Azucena Maldonado grew up between two worlds. She was born in Monterrey, Mexico, and moved with her parents to Texas when she was young. She often describes herself as a Texan who later built her life in California. Her story begins in an immigrant household where golf was not part of daily life. Her father worked as a waiter and her mother supported bilingual education as a student teacher. They gave her and her brother love, security, and a strong sense of responsibility.
Her mother in particular played a big role in moving the family to the United States. She wanted better opportunities for her children. Maldonado says her parents never forced her into one direction but encouraged her to explore and make the most of what was available. Those values became a foundation for everything that followed.
In high school and college she became active in different activities. She volunteered at a radio station and later joined community boards and
“The main goal is to make Latinas feel welcome in golf and to use the game as a tool for professional growth.”
committees. This involvement gave her new experiences and connections. It also set her on a path of community activism. She wanted to contribute to the Latino community, to help show its value and support its growth.
It was not until she moved to California almost twenty years ago that she discovered golf. A friend invited her to a course. She had never played before and was given a putter. From the first moment she felt connected to the game. At first she played for fun without thinking about anything beyond enjoying the sport.
Soon she was invited to charity golf tournaments. She did not know what to expect but quickly realized that golf was also a business space. Playing golf opened doors. It created connections with people she would later meet again at luncheons, receptions, or chamber events. Golf gave her an instant community. It was a way to meet people and build relationships.
But she also noticed something missing. At those tournaments there were many men but very few women. Sometimes she would be one of only three or four women in a group of one hundred players. She asked why more women were not part of the events. Organizers encouraged her to bring friends, but she realized she did not know many women who played golf.
“PLAYING
GOLF OPENED DOORS. IT CREATED CONNECTIONS WITH PEOPLE.”
In 2008 she decided to act. She rented a banquet room at a golf course and sent emails to women she knew from chambers and women’s groups. At the first event ninety four women showed up. Most of them said they were interested but had never been exposed to golf. They did not know how to start or who to play with. Maldonado saw the gap and understood what was needed. That was the start of the Latina Golfers Association.
From that first gathering the organization has grown to more than three thousand members in Los Angeles County and over five thousand throughout California and around the country. The association provides golf lessons and clinics, monthly outings, and networking events. It even organizes trips that mix golf with social activities. Its main goal is to make Latinas feel welcome in golf and to use the game as a tool for professional growth. The Latina Golfers Association has received a great reception from the golf industry and is a strategic partner with pillars of golf including the PGA of America, LPGA, Golf Course Superintendents Association, and Callaway Golf, to name a few.
Many members have shared how learning to play golf has changed their careers. They can now join colleagues and leaders at the course. They can invite clients to play. They feel included in settings where important relationships are built. Maldonado sees these results as proof of the impact golf can have when access is opened.
The organization has also created youth programs. It runs mother and daughter clinics, supports girls golf teams in high schools, and started a golf club in middle school. It even
brings golf to public parks with modified equipment. These efforts give young girls exposure to the sport and to the opportunities that come with it. Some programs connect them with scholarships or chances to continue their education.
Maldonado also highlights career paths in the golf industry. She explains that it takes many kinds of professionals to run courses and golf organizations. From marketing to finance to engineering, golf can offer work opportunities that are not always obvious. By bringing in professionals to meet with members and youth, the association shows that golf can be a doorway to careers as well as a sport.
Looking ahead, Maldonado wants the Latina Golfers Association to expand nationally. Women from other parts of the country have asked her to bring programs to their areas. She hopes to continue growing regionally and share golf with more Latinas in key cities across the United States in addition to their presence in California and Texas.
When asked about her own life outside of her work, she laughs and says she still loves to golf. Although she often spends her time organizing events and programs, she enjoys the moments when she can play with friends just for the joy of the game.
She also reflects on what she wants her legacy to be. For her, it comes down to persistence. She says she did not know the golf industry when she began. She only knew that Latinas needed a place in the sport. For seventeen years she has kept showing up, even in spaces where she felt out of place. That consistency, she believes, is what has kept the Latina Golfers Association strong and growing.
Escritor Courtesy of Azucena Maldonado
What lessons did you take from your years at the Federal Reserve into the corporate world?
MM: I love the saying “Success is where preparation meets opportunity.” I took so many lessons from my career at the Fed into the corporate world. From management and leadership: how to manage teams effectively and work collaboratively and in alignment with the overarching strategy to drive business excellence; how to be a mentor and a sponsor of people, understanding that leaders cast long shadows and can help set the tone and shape the culture of the organization. Learning the difference between crisis management and crisis communications and how ensuring communications is in full alignment with the business strategy is the key to supporting and enhancing an organization and setting it up for success. Also, the power of innovation and creative solutions and being intentional and proactive in times of uncertainty. And, all my experience working with Tier-1 international, national, local
A CAREER OF HIGHLIGHTED SUCCESS
MARCELA MANJARREZ CEO, M STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS
media and digital outlets while at the Fed prepared me for building, scaling and managing the media and digital communications efforts of what over the years became a Fortune 24, $125+ Billion publicly traded enterprise. Without a doubt, the lessons I learned at the Fed prepared me for my Chief Communications role at Centene.
At Centene, what was the biggest challenge of leading communications for such a large company?
MM: Setting up a strategic communications infrastructure that could grow, evolve and keep up with a company that was growing at an exponential pace and ensuring all our employees understood, felt and lived the importance of our mission: “providing the highest quality of healthcare for the most vulnerable populations with dignity and respect” was our top priority. When I joined Centene in early 2015, the company had 10k employees and $15.7B in revenue, served 4.1 million members and ranked 251 in the Fortune 500 list. By 2022, through organic growth and several public-to-public and private-to-public M&A the company had grown to more than 70,000 employees with a presence in all 50 states in the U.S. and 3 international markets, serving over 25 million members and with over $126B in revenue. I often reminded our senior executives and leaders during media training that with a company of our size and scale the chances of “human error,”
Courtesy of Marcela Manjarrez
someone making a mistake at any level in the organization, was close to 100%. For solid reputation management, we needed good guidelines, processes and systems, but especially and most importantly, good principles. To ensure we prevented as many crises as possible we needed to live and breathe our mission. When you live your mission, do the right thing, and have a good process, your reputation takes care of itself.
How do you see communications shaping business strategy and trust with stakeholders?
MM: For companies to be as effective as possible, integrated and strategic communications are essential. Communications must be fully embedded within the strategic objectives of the organization. It is a circular relationship. Communications inform the business strategy, and the business strategy shapes communications. Ensuring all stakeholders have a solid understanding of the company’s culture, mission, vision and values builds alignment, creates trust and helps deliver results. This is especially true and of the utmost importance during crisis situations. Business and communications teams must work together and be in sync at every step, ensuring the messaging being shared is consistent and in full alignment with the objectives and actions taken by the business. That is the key for building trust and a good reputation with all stakeholders.
AS YOU RISE, MAKE SURE YOU BRING OTHERS ALONG WITH YOU AND HELP WIDEN THE GATES.
Which experiences at the Federal Reserve had the greatest impact on your career path?
MM: As I reflect on my career at the Fed, there were three distinct periods in my 15-year tenure at the Fed that defined my path. When I first joined the Fed, as a research analyst, I learned to ask important research questions, leverage economic principles and analyze data and information to answer questions and deliver results. This shaped the way my mind worked to find solutions to problems. Second, my time as special research assistant to the President during the Financial Crisis of 2008 exposed me to an unprecedented global crisis that required real-time critical thinking and innovative solutions to problems never before studied or encountered. It gave me the opportunity to be part of a cross-functional team working together to understand how financial conditions were evolving and impacting the economy and figuring out innovative solutions and effective ways to communicate these complex issues to financial media, the business community and the general public. It also exposed me to the rest of the world. It made me realize my love for learning about how the world works and interacts, and about global interconnectedness. Finally, in my role as VP of Public Affairs, I learned to lead a function, build and manage teams and build and grow relationships with the media, industry groups, the business community and the general public. My mentors and sponsors at the Fed were also critical in shaping my career and my success. I could not have challenged myself to the level I did, and be successful, without their insights and encouragement.
What motivated you to move into the private sector and how did it change your perspective?
MM: I would have probably had a lifelong career at the Federal Reserve had it not been for the proactive outreach of Centene. An executive recruiter reached out to me through LinkedIn two years in a row. The first year I didn’t give it much thought; I ignored his outreach. The second year, he managed to spark my interest. When I learned more about the
company and met the CEO and the rest of his partner team, I was blown away by the mission, the vision, and the amazing potential for growth, both nationally and internationally. The CEO was extremely impressive, inspiring, and a visionary. I was excited to join his leadership team to provide innovative healthcare solutions for the most vulnerable populations. It seemed like an amazing opportunity to make an impact in a critical mission, continue learning about the world, build my own strategic communications team, this time in the healthcare sector and for a publicly traded company. Everything about the role sounded fascinating. Serendipitously, I had studied Actuarial science while in college in México City, so I already had a background in insurance. The role seemed like the perfect fit for me, and it proved to be so.
Who have been the mentors or influences that guided you along your journey?
MM: Throughout my journey I have been very fortunate to encounter so many wise and generous mentors and sponsors that helped shape my career. They had tough conversations, challenged me to stretch my mind and take on challenges beyond what I thought I could do. From my university professors at ITAM in México City, and UMSL and Washington University in St. Louis, guiding me toward which classes and internships to take, and later my first job out of college, to my mentors at the St. Louis Fed, Dick Anderson (former VP of Research), Bob Rasche (former Research Director), Jim Bullard (former President of the St. Louis Fed, now Dean of the Krannert School of Management at Purdue University) , Chris Waller (former Re-
search Director at the St. Louis Fed and now Governor of the Federal Reserve) , Julie Stackhouse (then EVP of Banking Supervision and Regulation at the Fed and now retired) and Kathie O’Neill (then EVP of Treasury at the St. Louis Fed, later COO and Interim CEO of the St. Louis Fed and now, President of Community America Credit Union) who helped me develop into a manager, leader and later an executive. At Centene, Michael Neidorff was not only my boss but a remarkable mentor and sponsor as I learned the ins and outs of a publicly traded company and the health insurance space. After Centene, Bob Clark (Founder and Chairman of Clayco), Sandra Van Trease (Director at EFSC) and Mike DeCola (Chairman of EFSC) have challenged me to continue to learn and grow and develop in a different capacity as a board director, which is a role I very much enjoy as it challenges me to continue to think strategically, proactively and intentionally and at a high and impactful level.
What advice would you give young women and Latinas who want to lead at the executive level?
MM: Work hard but also smart. Always be prepared. Don’t be afraid to ask for opportunities. Along your journey, find individuals who are open and willing to challenge you and help you learn, and never stop learning. Don’t take no for an answer. You must be relentless. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Mistakes are learning opportunities. Learn from your mistakes, dust yourself off and try again. Failure is simply NOT an option. And, importantly, as you rise, make sure you bring others along with you and help widen the gates.
FIGHTING FOR FREEDOM, OPPORTUNITY, AND TEXAS AN EXCLUSIVE CONVERSATION WITH SENATOR TED CRUZ
TED CRUZ SENATOR FROM TEXAS
For Senator Ted Cruz, politics isn’t just about policy papers or party lines—it’s about Whetherpeople. he’s in Washington casting votes, on the road meeting with Texans, or at home with his family, he frames his work around one central mission: fighting for freedom and opportunity. In our conversation, Cruz spoke candidly about his journey, his father’s immigrant story, and the values he believes are bothshaping Texas and the Latino community across America.
WHEN CRUZ talks about his role as a U.S. Senator, the first thing that comes through is energy. “Every day I walk into the United States Capitol, it takes my breath away,” he said. For him, representing 31 million Texans isn’t just a job—it’s a daily mission to fight for freedom, security, and jobs.
That drive didn’t appear out of nowhere. Long before politics, Cruz cut his teeth as Solicitor General of Texas, standing before the U.S. Supreme Court to defend constitutional rights. He still remembers the thrill of starting arguments with, “Mr. Chief Justice, and may it please the Court, I’m here representing the state of Texas.” For him, the experience taught two lifelong lessons: the importance of arguing with facts and respect, and the need for real conversations—even with those who disagree.
A Texas Story with Cuban Roots
Cruz often circles back to his father’s journey from Cuba. As a teenager, his father fought in the revolution, was imprisoned, tortured, and fled to the U.S. in 1957 with just $100 sewn into his underwear by his mother. He arrived in Austin not speaking English, washing dishes for 50 cents an hour, and slowly building a life. “If someone had told him then that his son would be a U.S. Senator, he couldn’t have imagined it,” Cruz recalled. Years later, when Cruz was sworn into office with his hand on his father’s Bible, he looked up to see his dad in tears. “Only in America.”
That immigrant story has shaped how Cruz approaches policy. He sees the Latino community as deeply rooted in values like family, faith, and hard work—principles that he believes align closely with conservatism. “The demographic in America with the highest rate of military enlistment is Latinos,” he pointed out, noting the shift he’s witnessed in South Texas politics and the role Latinos are playing in shaping the future.
Listening and Acting
For Cruz, connecting with Texans isn’t theoretical—it’s practical. He spends time across the state, from Houston to the Panhandle, listening to concerns. One story he shared was about Laredo leaders frustrated by delays in permits for new bridges to Mexico. Cruz pushed legislation through Congress to force the administration’s hand, unlocking jobs and billions in investment for South Texas. “My number one priority in the Senate is jobs, jobs, jobs.”
Beyond Politics
At home, Cruz is quick to shift gears from senator to dad. He speaks with obvious pride about his teenage daughters, Caroline and Catherine, and about life with his wife, Heidi. He plays basketball, poker, and board games, and he’s candid about how teenagers have a way of keeping him humble. “No father of teenagers can avoid being reminded of your imperfections,” he joked.
Faith also keeps him grounded. He reflected on recent conversations about religion, including moments from his friend Charlie Kirk’s appearances debating faith in public forums. For Cruz, Christianity is not just personal—it’s a lens for how he sees leadership, resilience, and the role of truth in public life.
Looking Ahead
When asked about legacy, Cruz doesn’t hesitate: school choice. He calls it the civil rights issue of the 21st century and takes pride in writing legislation that expanded access to scholarships across the country. For him, it’s about giving every child—regardless of income— the chance to succeed. “If, when I die, my tombstone says Ted played a meaningful part in bringing about school choice, I will die a happy man.”
Still, beyond laws and politics, he wants to be remembered simply as someone who kept his word and fought for what he believed in. “Texas is where the jobs are,” he said. “And we’ve got to keep that going”..
“FOR HIM, REPRESENTING 31 MILLION TEXANS ISN’T JUST A JOB— IT’S A DAILY MISSION TO FIGHT FOR FREEDOM, SECURITY, AND JOBS.”
THE REAL MEANING OF EMPOWERING LATINOS
What does Latino empowerment truly mean?
There doesn’t seem seem to be an infallible definition to the phrase or a central business magisterium that can make all corporations or experts agree on the definition. At its core, though, it’s often described as access to the American Dream: the ability to thrive and advance economically and in other arenas, while paving the way for the next generation to succeed, thrive, and advance.
Still, the diversity of Latino empowerment and its definitions often has different nuances that range from the type of business, like technology, to media to real estate. Few examples make this clearer than the story of Leo and Teresa Razo.
The Razos, who live in Southern California, grew up economically challenged. Of Mexican origin, Teresa Razo was born and raised in the state, while her husband hails from La Barca, Jalisco, where they met.
The couple ended up marrying and living in Southern California, where Leo Razo went from being a dishwasher to owning his first restaurant, with the invaluable help and the gargantuan faith and work ethic of his wife. Teresa Razo’s creed has always been, “never give up.”
“I think it really comes to not giving up, just keep going. Just keep swimming,” Teresa Razo said. “But along the way, make sure to bring others with you.”
Coming out empowered
The couple first opened up Villa Roma, an Italian-Argentine restaurant in Laguna Hills, California. In 2019, they joined the Latino Business Action Network (LBAN), which works in partnership with Stanford University.
What Teresa Razo liked best about the training and knowledge she and her husband gained during her time taking the classes with LBAN was the stories that other successful entrepreneurs shared with them. They didn’t just talk about triumphs; they also shared how they overcame challenges, often after starting out from humble beginnings.
“You come out of there empowered. You know things are possible. You just saw somebody that went through it. The stories are related, like where you are at right now, ok, but look at where he is at right now,” Teresa Razo said.
“So, it is possible to dream. And dream big. I have people to support me and don’t think that I am crazy.”
“It’s also easier to know where we are going. We know each other. We know our heart. Our passions. It’s very important that we support each other. And with this group it was amazing,” she said. “It was my source of empowerment, completely. After I graduated from there, I had the knowledge, the ability, the encouragement. I felt empowered. That’s how I started my second location.”
The Razos are a strong example of growing in all aspects of their business and as people after empowerment training from an excellent place like LBAN. Their success compels them to share it with others. They have served thousands of free meals for homeless shelters, and helped people in Africa and Mexico.
“I’ve always believed that nobody should go hungry. Nobody should go to bed hungry,” Teresa Razo said.
Some people have told the Razos they should cut back on charity and concentrate on growing their businesses. They disagree.
“If you would not do this in the community, you’d probably have two or three restaurants by now,” Teresa Razo said some people tell her. She answers, “Maybe. But guess what? That doesn’t make us happy.”
Nuts and bolts
There are compelling reasons for Latinos to empower themselves. The Latino 2025 total economic output or GDP report spearheaded by Dr. David Hayes-Bautista found that in 2023 the Latino GDP was $4.1 trillion, up from $2.8 trillion in 2019 and $1.6 trillion in 2010.
“If Latinos living in the United States were an independent country, the U.S. Latino GDP would be the fifth largest GDP in the world. For the fourth consecutive year, U.S. Latino GDP is larger than the GDPs of India, the United Kingdom, or France,” according to the report. “While impressive for its size, the U.S. Latino GDP is truly remarkable for its rapid growth. Among the ten largest GDPs, the U.S. Latino GDP was the third fastest growing from 2010 to 2023. Over that period, real Latino GDP increased 2.7 times faster than Non-Latino.”
Some of the most noteworthy Latino empowerment programs today
The following list is by no means comprehensive. Empowerment companies come in all shapes and sizes. Some may be geared toward the corporate world, others specifically to health, academics, finances, etc. But they share a common goal: to improve the lives of those who participate in them.
Below are some firms whose work through the years has gained a solid reputation, like LBAN. Others are more novel, smaller, and regional, like Los Mentores Financieros out of Los Angeles. And others are breaking boundaries and setting their own rules, like Chingona Ventures.
No matter. They all empower.
Joseph Treviño Courtesy of Leo and Teresa Razo
Teresa
Leo
101 MOST INFLUENTIAL LATINOS 2025
LATINO BUSINESS ACTION NETWORK (LBAN)
According to the Latino Business Action Network’s website, LBAN is a Silicon Valley-based, vibrant nonprofit “with a big mission to strengthen the U.S. economy by empowering Latino entrepreneurship across the country. We are a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization with a national reach.”
LBAN powers superlative proficiency in management education to support this growing entrepreneurship opportunity. The nonprofit works together with Stanford Graduate School of Business through the mutually led and supported Stanford Latino Entrepreneurship Initiative within the Center for Entrepreneurial Studies.
The three pillars of LBAN consist of research, education, and networking. The Chief Executive Officer is Arturo Cazares; Alejandra Tamayo is the Business Manager and Anelisa Lauri is the Senior Program Manager.
LBAN has several programs for individuals and businesses.
“You apply and have to meet a very strict criteria to get accepted. Then, courses online, and live courses at Stanford University that are taught by the school of business,” said Teresa Razo. “How to take it to the next level and how to support each other. You have a whole family behind you, you can text and say, what about this issue? How did you resolve it? Or does anybody know a company that will help you?”
Contact: https://www.lban.us/
LATINO CORPORATE DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION
The Latino Corporate Directors Association (LCDA) has, since 2013, empowered senior executives to attain the uppermost levels of corporate leadership through foremost programming and strategic networking opportunities. Its membership comprises individuals serving on public and large private company boards, as well as C-suite leaders aiming to become board directors.
“As a trusted partner for corporations, governance institutions, and search firms, LCDA is committed to identifying and cultivating worldclass, board-ready talent to strengthen governance and promote organizational success,” according to the LCDA website.
“LCDA is at the forefront in preparing executives for success on their journey to and in the boardroom. LCDA Members occupy more than 30% of the board seats held by Latinos on Fortune 1000 companies,” according to the website. “We have more than 250 members who hold seats on publicly traded and privately held boards including Target, HP, Ford Motor Company, CBS, Honeywell International, Southwest Airlines, Levi-Strauss, Bank of America, Ryder, AutoZone, Archer Daniels Midland, and Cinemark, to name a few.”
Contact and information: https://latinocorporatedirectors.org/
CHINGONA VENTURES
Led by founding partner Samara Hernandez, with Grisel Hernandez as a Senior Associate and Peri Elman as a Senior Analyst, Illinois-based Chingona Ventures is one of the most novel and exciting companies that are “investing in the next generation of badass founders.”
“Chingona Ventures is a venture capital firm that invests in founders from backgrounds or in industries that are not always well understood by the traditional investor,” Samara Hernandez told the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in an article.
“‘Chingona’ is slang for ‘badass woman.’ While the root of the word may be controversial, I’ve used it affectionately with my sisters to channel our inner badass when overcoming life’s obstacles,” Hernandez told the Hispanic Chamber. “I chose to name my recently launched fund Chingona Ventures because I am investing in badass founders who are ‘chingón’ enough to just maybe do something that matters.”
When asked who Chingona invests in, Hernandez replied: “Everyone. We care about your business, not what you look like. However, women and minorities still get less than 3% of all venture capital funding so we work hard to ensure our deal flow (and our portfolio) is diverse beyond talking a good game. Just look at our portfolio.”
Contact and information: https://www.chingona.ventures/
HISPANIC FEDERATION
With work sites in Florida, Illinois, New York, North Carolina, Connecticut, Puerto Rico, and Washington, D.C., and programs in 42 states and territories, Hispanic Federation works in communities to engage in systemic change. It has teams leading local programs and advocacy.
According to the Hispanic Federation website, “it is the largest Latino umbrella organization in the U.S. with a network of 650+ nonprofits. Our network of nonprofits is the foundation on which we build community and make a lasting impact in the lives of Latinos.”
“Hispanic Federation understands the potential Latinos have to increase their economic prosperity for generations to come. With the right tools and resources on key topics including credit, capital, digital skilling, and so much more, communities can be transformed and revitalized. HF’s economic empowerment offers a variety of programs and leads advocacy campaigns in four focus areas: Workforce Development + Digital Equity, Financial Education, and Small Business Support.”
Contact and information: https://www.hispanicfederation.org/
HACR
Founded in 1986, the Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility (HACR) is the country’s leading corporate advocacy organization, standing for 13 national Hispanic organizations in the United States and Puerto Rico. Its mission is simple: to move forward the presence of Hispanics in Corporate America in employment, procurement, philanthropy, and governance.
HACR advances its mission via corporate leadership advancement programs, best-practice conferences, research initiatives, and public engagements, “illuminating The Power of Hispanic Inclusion™ throughout Corporate America,” according to its website.
Currently, Cid Wilson is the President and CEO of HACR. He was appointed in July 2014, making history as “the first Afro-Latino to lead a national Hispanic organization in the United States. Under his leadership, HACR continues to elevate its research, programs, and initiatives focused on increasing Hispanic representation in employment, procurement, philanthropy, and governance,” according to the HACR website.
Contact and information: https://hacr.org/
LOS MENTORES FINANCIEROS
Based in Los Angeles, Gustavo Vargas and Corina Franco, two Latino immigrants, joined forces to combine their expertise in management, finance, and communications and founded a bilingual company dedicated to financial education and wealth protection for the Hispanic community.
According to Vargas, a seasoned journalist and broadcast commentator originally from Mexico, “many families in the United States lack clear information about life insurance, retirement plans, and tax-advantaged savings. That is why, at Los Mentores Financieros, we are dedicated to guiding them toward financial freedom, protecting their wealth, and optimizing their growth without unnecessary risks.”
In other words, empowering Latinos.
The mission of the company is quite simple, Vargas says: “To provide access to high-impact financial solutions, helping Latino families protect and grow their wealth through safe and efficient strategies.”
Contact and information: https://losmentoresfinancieros.net/
RUNNING WITH PURPOSE
ISIAH PACHECO
KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
Isiah Pacheco enters his fourth season with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2025, already recognized as one of the team’s most consistent and determined performers. Drafted in the seventh round as the 251st overall pick in 2022, Pacheco quickly showed that his draft position would not define his future. In just a few years, he has built a résumé that cements him as both a reliable contributor and a key figure in the Chiefs’ success.
Growing up in New Jersey, Pacheco faced challenges that shaped his drive and focus. “The challenges I faced in my past helped me with who I am today,” he says.
“It’s my foundation, because nothing in the football field will be as hard as my family tragedy.” That resilience carried into the NFL, where Pacheco refused to let his late draft selection set limits. “The draft is what 32 teams think of you,” he explains. “I knew I had the talent, I just needed the opportunity to show everyone else what I can do to help a team.”
That determination paid off. He became a core part of the Chiefs offense and contributed to one of the defining moments of his career: being part of a Super Bowl–winning team. “Being a part of a team that won the Super Bowl,” he recalls, “is a moment that will always stand out.”
For Pacheco, preparation is as important as talent. In high-pressure postseason games, he relies on focus and discipline. “I just, within the moment, control what I can and stay focused on my job.”
That approach has served him well, helping him amass 547 postseason rushing yards in just 10 games, the second-most in franchise history, along with the most postseason rushing attempts by any Chiefs player.
Even with these accomplishments, Pacheco is committed to growth. “Stay patient and wait on the hole to open, getting better at the passing game and being consistent each and every play,” he says of his focus areas. His goals remain ambitious: “I want to rush 1,000 yards and help the team win another Super Bowl.”
Pacheco’s journey from overlooked draft pick to Super Bowl champion underscores his persistence and vision for the future. His foundation, forged through adversity, continues to fuel his success and keeps him focused on his next milestone.
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
• 12 rushing touchdowns in his first two seasons, fifth-most by a Chiefs player.
• 830 rushing yards as a rookie, fourth-best among NFL rookies in 2022.
• Five rushing touchdowns as a rookie, leading the team and second-most among NFL rookies.
POSTSEASON ACCOLADES
• 547 rushing yards in 10 postseason games, secondmost in franchise history.
• Four postseason rushing touchdowns, third-most in Chiefs history.
• Most postseason rushing attempts in franchise history (121).
HONORS
• 2022 Mack Lee Hill Award winner, voted by teammates as best rookie.
Source: Chiefs.com
ISIAH PACHECO
Latino Leaders Magazine Courtesy of Chiefs
Leadership is best understood not only through actions but also through words that inspire. We have put together powerful insights that remind us of the values that drive resilience, vision, and progress.
“Our responsibility for creating opportunities for others rises in proportion to our privilege.”
“Many people say seeing is believing, I say believing is seeing. In times of hardship is when we have to keep our spirits high and intelligently keep on fighting. Start with your own circle, rely on facts, share powerful stories, continue working hard and know that even in the darkest times, there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. Believe it’s possible, it may take longer, but change will happen.”
CLAUDIA ROMO EDELMAN FOUNDER AND CEO OF WE ARE ALL HUMAN AND HISPANIC STAR
“Latinos are the largest minority and the fastest growing demographic in the US. We are an economic superpower. We have strong values and an impeccable work ethic. We are the employees and consumers of the future. Businesses who learn how to tap into our talent will gain a competitive advantage and drive superior results for their organizations. The time for Latinos is now. We must continue to shatter glass ceilings and widen the gates together.”
MARCELA MANJARREZ CEO, M STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS
“Have the courage to take personal risks, the humility to ask for help, and the purpose to serve others without forgetting who you are.”
ILEANA
MUSA
MANAGING DIRECTOR - HEAD OF SALES,
MORGAN STANLEY
“Leadership is about lifting others up, creating space for their voices to be heard, and guiding with authenticity and purpose. True leaders don’t stand in front – they walk alongside.”
WENDY FRANCO SVP, BUSINESS BANKING MARKET EXECUTIVE, BANK OF AMERICA
LEADERS IN FINANCE 2025
This section highlight leaders shaping today’s financial landscape. From banking and capital markets to wealth management and financial empowerment, each profile reflects not only a career built on expertise, but also a commitment to opening doors of opportunity. They bring unique insights into the challenges and innovations that are redefining access to capital, strengthening financial resilience, and guiding the next generation of professionals in the industry.
Raul Anaya
Bank of America
President, Business Banking
Anaya is president and co-head of Business Banking at Bank of America, overseeing services for 11 million business owner clients and 3.4 million businesses. Under his leadership, the bank is consistently ranked as the #1 small business lender by the FDIC. Raul also serves as president of Bank of America for Greater Los Angeles and leads the bank’s Hispanic-Latino business strategy and diversity initiatives. He is active in the community, serving on boards such as the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce and the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Latino.
Estrella “Star” Crawford
Bank of America
Senior Vice President, Market Executive
“Star” Crawford is noted for her impactful work in community relations at Bank of America. As a Community Relations Manager within the Chief Administrative Officer Group, she has significantly contributed to mobilizing relief efforts, notably raising $4,000 for Puerto Rico in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria. Crawford is actively involved in the Hispanic-Latino Organization for Leadership & Advancement (HOLA) at Bank of America, demonstrating her dedication to supporting Hispanic and Latino communities.
LEADERS IN FINANCE
Mario
Diaz Bank of America
Managing Director, National Consumer Investment Sales Executive
Diaz Jr. is the Managing Director and Head of Academy for Merrill Lynch, Private Bank, and Preferred Investments at Bank of America. With a robust background in financial services, he excels in business planning, risk management, and customer service. Mario holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and Management from Florida International University.
Wendy Franco
Bank of America
Vice President, Small Business Banking Manager
Franco, currently VP and Small Business Banking Manager at Bank of America, brings over 19 years of experience in the banking industry. Skilled in sales, branch management, credit cards, and team building, Wendy holds a Bachelor's in International Relations with a minor in Business Administration from the University of Nevada, Reno. She has previously served in key roles at Bank of the West and Bank of America, demonstrating a strong entrepreneurial spirit and leadership in business banking.
Michael Miranda BMO
President of BMO Family Office & Head of Investments, Wealth
Michael leads a large group serving ultra-affluent clients to fulfill the full spectrum of investment and wealth management needs. He chairs the bank’s Personal Asset Management Committee, and is a member of the Asset Allocation Committee, and is responsible for setting investment policy and strategy throughout the United States. He serves on the Board of the Ravinia Festival and a member of the Alumni Society.
Edward Suarez BMO
Regional President of Personal and Business Banking
Ed leads a team of more than 500 employees in the Plains Region. A Cuban immigrant, he has lived and led across multiple geographies, highlighting his adaptable nature. He is known for his ability to generate corporate growth through strong employee engagement and a relentless focus on helping clients make real financial progress. He holds an MBA from Temple University and sits on the board of the BMO Latino Alliance.
Raquel González Bank
of America
President
González is the President of Bank of America Silicon Valley and also serves as the Hispanic-Latino Strategy Executive. With over 30 years in financial services, she leads Bank of America's operations in Silicon Valley, connecting business lines to deliver comprehensive financial services. Raquel has a proven track record in leadership roles, focusing on revenue growth and corporate social responsibility initiatives. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Management from Saint Mary's College of California and has completed executive education at the University of Washington Banking School.
Alejandro Perez
Bank Of New York Mellon
Chief Administrative Officer
Perez is the Chief Administrative Officer at BNY and a member of BNY's Executive Committee. He oversees global operations, human resources, corporate real estate, workplace experience, enterprise resiliency, and sourcing. Alejandro joined BNY in June 2021 with over 20 years of experience in financial services and technology, having held senior roles at Goldman Sachs, Bloomberg LP, and Unqork Inc.
Melissa Garcia BMO
Regional President of Personal and Business Banking
Melissa leads nearly 600 employees across Chicago, and with her team, she is dedicated to providing financial advice and guidance to clients and the communities they serve, helping them make real financial progress. With over 15 years in the financial industry, she has held leadership roles in Mortgage, Business Banking, and Headquarters. She holds an MBA from Illinois State University and serves on the board of March of Dimes.
Letticia Flores-Poole BMO
VP and Senior, Regional Manager, U.S. Zero Barriers to Business
Letticia brings 25 years of leadership and management experience in personal and business banking. She supports BMO’s strategy to expand access to capital, education, and opportunities for business owners across the bank’s U.S. footprint. She is national co-chair of the BMO Latino Alliance employee resource group and sits on the boards of the IL Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, International Minority Bankers Alliance, National Association Women Business Owners, and Teatro Vista.
Andy Navarrete
Capital One
Executive Vice President & Head of External Affairs
Andy Navarrete is Executive Vice President and Chief External Affairs Officer at Capital One, where he leads regulatory engagement, community investment, and corporate communications. Since joining the company in 1999, he has held senior legal and regulatory roles across major business units. A former attorney at Morgan Lewis and legal advisor at the Federal Reserve, Andy also has experience on Capitol Hill. He holds a law degree and has served as a professor, combining legal expertise with a passion for public policy and community impact.
Luis Miguel Ochoa
Citigroup Inc.
Senior Vice President, Core Strategy Office
Ochoa is the Senior Vice President, Core Strategy Office Acquisition & Digital Sales Transformation at Citi. He is an award-winning management consultant specializing in enterprise-level vision and strategy execution. With extensive experience in strategic planning and business management across banking, finance, and wealth management sectors, Luis Miguel is known for driving large-scale initiatives and fostering growth through data-driven processes and leadership development. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from Stanford University.
Jose Feliciano
Clearlake Capital Group
Co-Founder and Managing Partner
Feliciano is a Puerto Rican-born American businessman and investor, best known as the co-founder and managing partner of Clearlake Capital. A graduate of Princeton University and Stanford Business School, he began his career at Goldman Sachs before co-founding Clearlake in 2006. Feliciano played a key role in the 2022 acquisition of Chelsea Football Club. As of January 2024, his net worth is estimated at $3.8 billion.
Efren Ávalos
Comerica Bank
Senior Vice President, Credit Risk Management and Decisioning
Efren Avalos is a Senior Vice President specializing in Credit Risk Management and Decisioning at Comerica Bank, based in Dallas, TX. With a strong background in finance, he has progressed through various roles at Comerica, including Vice President and Manager of Commercial Underwriting. Efren holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Oklahoma State University, reflecting his expertise in financial analysis and risk management.
Gonzalo Luchetti
Citigroup Inc.
Head of U.S. Personal Banking
Luchetti leads U.S. Personal Banking at Citi, focusing on a seamless client experience and digital innovation for over 70 million customers. With previous roles including Head of Consumer Bank for Asia and EMEA, he drives growth through strategic transformations and digital advancements. Gonzalo holds an MBA from Stanford University Graduate School of Business and brings a wealth of experience from Citi, JPMorgan Chase, and Bain & Company.
Juan Matta
Citigroup Inc.
Senior Vice President
Matta is a results-driven technology leader with over twenty years of experience in architecting, engineering, and managing end-user computing across various industries, including finance. He has a proven track record in leading global teams, managing budgets, and implementing large-scale projects. Currently, he serves as the Engineering Lead at Citi, where he oversees a team of 10 engineers responsible for spearheading Citi's cloud provisioning initiative, from design to execution.
Claudia Jiménez
Comerica Bank
Vice president, Small Business Banker
Claudia Jimenez-Mewbourn is a Vice President and Small Business Banker at Comerica Bank, based in Texas, with over a decade of experience in the financial industry. She has held various roles at Comerica Bank and Wells Fargo, specializing in business banking and management. Claudia holds an Associate's degree in Business Administration and Management from Fleming Institute in Mexico City. Her career reflects a strong commitment to supporting small businesses through personalized banking services.
Juan Vives
First Citizens Bank
Managing Director
Juan Vives is a Managing Director at First Citizens Bank in New York, with over 15 years of experience in real estate finance. He specializes in balance sheet loan origination and relationship management, covering regions including Chicago and New York. Before joining First Citizens Bank in 2021, Juan held key roles at Allianz Real Estate, Deutsche Bank, and Aareal Bank AG, where he focused on loan structuring, underwriting, and credit risk management for large portfolios. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Finance from the University at Albany.
LEADERS IN FINANCE
Art Saldivar
First Citizens Bank
Senior Regional Director - Wealth Management
Saldivar leads a 17-member team of wealth advisors serving individuals and institutions across Southern California. As the founding executive of First Citizens Wealth in the region, he launched the business in 2023 and rapidly expanded its presence with offices in Los Angeles, San Diego, and Orange County. Previously, Saldivar held senior leadership roles at Wells Fargo, including Senior Director of Sales at Wells Fargo Private Bank. With decades of experience, he is recognized as one of the region’s top executives in wealth advisory services.
Santiago Herrera Hall
Goldman Sachs
Executive Director
Santiago Herrera Hall is a dual-licensed attorney in New York and Buenos Aires, serving as Executive Director at Goldman Sachs. He specializes in banking law, capital markets, and corporate finance, with expertise in U.S. and Argentine legal systems. Santiago holds a J.D. from Wake Forest and an LL.M. from Northwestern, and has contributed to major M&A and finance transactions. Known for his work in international law and compliance, he is also passionate about legal education and mentorship.
Bernardo de la Garza
IBC Bank
Executive Vice President
Bernardo de la Garza is the Executive Vice President at IBC Bank in San Antonio, TX. With over a decade in banking and real estate, he specializes in finance and real estate financing.
Previously serving as Senior Vice President and First Vice President at IBC Bank, Bernardo leads a team providing tailored financial solutions. He holds a degree in Finance and Real Estate Finance & Development from The University of Texas at San Antonio. Fluent in Spanish and English, Bernardo is dedicated to community service and professional growth.
Silvana Montenegro
JPMorgan Chase
Global Head of the Office of Hispanic and Latino Affairs
Montenegro leads a unified strategy to engage Hispanic and Latino communities within and outside the firm. Previously, she headed Talent, Diversity & Inclusion for the Commercial Bank in Latin America. Fluent in Portuguese, English and Spanish, she champions business opportunities and inclusion
Jesse Suarez
First Citizens Bank
Vice President, Commercial Banker
Suarez is a veteran commercial banking executive with over 22 years of experience in corporate and industrial banking. Based at First Citizens Bank, he focuses on guiding businesses in the growth phase, offering tailored solutions through deep client understanding and a collaborative advisory approach. He holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in finance from Florida International University and is known for building long-term, strategic banking partnerships grounded in trust, insight, and operational excellence.
Ramón Fernández
Goldman Sachs
Head of Latin America
Ramón Fernández is the Head of Latin America for Goldman Sachs Asset Management, bringing nearly 25 years of experience in banking and investments. A Mexican national, he joined Goldman Sachs in 2021 to lead efforts in Mexico and Central America and was promoted in 2025 to oversee the entire Latin American region. Prior to Goldman, he held senior roles at Schroders, Deutsche Bank, Invex, and UBS. Ramón holds degrees from Tecnológico de Monterrey and Harvard Business School Executive Education, with expertise in institutional sales, private banking, and asset management.
Gustavo Barrera
IBC Bank
President and CEO
Barrera is the President and CEO of IBC Bank, based in Corpus Christi, TX. With a distinguished career at IBC Bank since 1995, Gustavo has held roles including Executive Vice President before becoming CEO. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting and Finance from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi and an Associates in Business Administration from Del Mar College. Gustavo's expertise includes banking, commercial banking, and commercial lending.
Louis Avila
JPMorgan Chase & Co.
Executive Director
Avila is the Executive Director of Community Development Banking at JPMorgan Chase & Co. He focuses on initiatives that promote financial inclusion and economic growth within underserved communities, particularly Hispanic communities. Avila has been instrumental in driving community development projects that aim to create sustainable financial opportunities for those in need.
Rafael A. Mora
JPMorgan Chase & Co.
Vice President, Project Execution
Mora has spent over two decades at JPMorgan Chase, leading commercial banking in Latin America to expand the bank’s services and foster financial growth. Originally from Chicago, he graduated from Purdue University in 2016 with a BS in Business Operations Management. With extensive experience in business architecture and portfolio management across automotive and IT sectors, Rafael excels in complex program delivery and data visualization, known for his innovative strategies and personable leadership style.
Diana Salazar
JPMorgan Chase & Co.
Vice President, Business Banking Area Manager
Salazar Uribe, also known as Diana Salazar, currently serves as Vice President and Business Banking Area Manager at JPMorgan Chase & Co. With over 10 years of experience at the company, she specializes in business resiliency and virtual banking. Diana has a strong background in customer experience and networking, previously leading teams in Phoenix, Arizona. Her expertise includes data analysis and strategic planning, contributing to JPMorgan Chase's operational resilience and business development efforts.
Silvana Hernandez is Executive Vice President of Core Payments for Latin America and the Caribbean at Mastercard, where she leads strategy and execution across digital, acceptance, and core payment products. Since joining Mastercard in 2010, she has held diverse global and regional roles in consulting, product strategy, and partner engagement. Prior to that, she spent nearly a decade in management consulting, focusing on financial services and telecom. Silvana holds a B.A. from TEC de Monterrey and an MBA from Carnegie Mellon University.
Kiki Del Valle
Mastercard
Division President, North LAC, Mastercard
Kiki Del Valle is President of Mastercard’s North LAC Division, leading operations in Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. A fintech leader, she has expanded digital payments, driven financial inclusion, and launched Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay, transforming global payments.
Carlos Sanchez
JPMorgan Chase & Co.
Vice President, Business Relationship Manager
Sanchez is a seasoned VP and Sr. Business Relationship Manager at JPMorgan Chase & Co. With over 15 years in the financial services industry, he specializes in enhancing overall Business Banking relationships, delivering valuable solutions to his clients. Based in Palm Beach Gardens, FL, Carlos is recognized for his expertise in small business banking and private client services across Florida.
Angel Rodriguez
Key Bank
Senior Vice President, Business Banking Sales Leader
Rodriguez is the Senior Vice President and Business Banking Sales Leader at KeyBank, specializing in business transformation, operational strategy, and sales management. With a career spanning banking, finance, treasury services, fintech, and medical devices, he is known for driving growth and profitability through strategic partnerships, data-driven processes, and leadership development. Angel excels in creating highperformance teams and guiding organizations to achieve leadership in competitive markets.
Paula Paschoal
MasterCard
Executive Vice President of Market Development
Paula Paschoal is Executive Vice President of Market Development for Latin America and the Caribbean at Mastercard, where she drives strategic growth through partnerships with key players across fintech, merchants, digital platforms, and governments. She previously led global payments partnerships at Google and helped launch Google Pay in Brazil. Prior to that, Paula spent over a decade at PayPal Brazil, serving in various leadership roles, including Country Manager. She holds a business degree from Fundação Alvares Penteado and an MBA from Fundação Getulio Vargas.
Charlie A. Ramos
Morgan Stanley
First Vice President, Financial Advisor The Daniels Group
Ramos is a Financial Advisor at Morgan Stanley's Menlo Park office. With a career spanning over two decades, he began at UBS Financial Services in New York in 2000 and later joined Smith Barney in 2006. Prior to his current role, Charlie served in branch management, specializing in high net worth clients. He holds an Economics degree from St. Peter’s University and is designated as a Financial Planning Specialist by Morgan Stanley. Charlie resides in San Leandro, CA, with his wife Traci and son.
LEADERS IN FINANCE
Ileana Musa
Morgan Stanley
Managing Director, Head of Sales Private Bank
Ileana Musa is a financial services leader dedicated to empowering individuals to reach their financial goals and make informed decisions rooted in purpose and values. A strong advocate for Latina leadership, she serves on ALPFA’s Corporate Advisory Board and leads Women of ALPFA, advancing Latinas in leadership roles. Ileana has been recognized by Fortune as one of the Top 50 Most Powerful Latinas in the U.S. and mentors entrepreneurs through the Cherie Blair Foundation. She also supports education equity as a board member of the FIU Honors College.
Juan Carlos Carrera
Morgan Stanley
Executive Director, International Client and Private Wealth Advisor, The New York Latin America Group
Juan Carlos Carrera is an Executive Director in the Private Wealth Management division at Morgan Stanley, with a financial career spanning since 1987. He specializes in advising successful families across Latin America, the Caribbean, and the U.S., helping them manage and grow their wealth. Before joining Morgan Stanley in 2008, he co-founded the New York Latin America Group at Wachovia Securities. A graduate of Northeastern University, Carrera also serves on the boards of Castillo Hermanos and Harvest Hill Beverage Company.
Daniel Gamba
Northern Trust Asset Management
President
Daniel is one of three Presidents responsible for Northern Trust Corporation alongside with CEO and CFO. He is responsible for developing long-term strategy, executing operating plans, cultivating client relationships, managing vendor relationships and developing talented professionals.
Eddie Diaz
Ocean Bank
Executive Vice President and Head of Corporate Lending
Diaz is the Executive Vice President and Head of Corporate Lending at Ocean Bank, based in Miami, FL. He has been with Ocean Bank since 2008, serving previously as SVP - Regional Manager and SVP - Head of Corporate Lending. Eddie holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting and Finance from Florida International University. His expertise includes credit analysis, asset-based lending, and financial analysis.
James Cotto
Morgan Stanley
Managing Director- Wealth Advisor, The Cotto Wealth Management Group
James Cotto is a Managing Director – Wealth Management and Wealth Advisor at The Cotto Wealth Management Group at Morgan Stanley. With a financial services career dating back to 1988, he specializes in guiding high-net-worth individuals, business owners, and philanthropic organizations toward financial independence and sustainability. A Rutgers University graduate, James leads a diverse team of next-gen Latino and women professionals and is actively involved in Hispanic-focused organizations, including the Maestro Cares Foundation and the Hispanic Scholarship Fund.
Alex Baptista
MuleSoft
Regional VP, Banking & Wealth Management
Oversees banking clients managing assets of nearly $100 billion, generating ~$40 million revenue. Passionate about developing internal talent and supporting Latino professionals in banking and tech.
Emilia Lopez
NuBank
Global CC General Manager
Lopez is a seasoned financial services executive known for delivering transformative results and developing top talent. She currently serves as Global CC General Manager at Nubank, a role she began in May 2024. Previously, she was Head of Agile Product - Card Services at JPMorgan Chase & Co. and Senior Vice President of US Card at Capital One. Emilia also worked at Boston Consulting Group as a Principal. She holds an MBA in Strategic Management and Accounting from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business.
Rodolfo Bucaro
Ocean Bank
Chief Information Officer focused on Digital Transformation
Bucaro, based in Florida, is the Chief Information Officer at Ocean Bank, focusing on digital transformation. He brings over 25 years of experience in cybersecurity, risk management, and banking technologies. Before joining Ocean Bank, he served as CIO at Santander Private Banking International, overseeing global IT operations. Rodolfo holds an Advanced Certificate from MIT Sloan School of Management and an MBA from Gaia Escuela de Negocios. His expertise includes enterprise IT infrastructure, operational risk management, and cybersecurity, with a strong background in leading digital transformations and managing IT departments for multinational corporations.
Ignacio Hernandez
Ocean Bank
Senior Vice President and Factoring Sales Manager
Hernandez, based in Miami, FL, is the Senior Vice President and Factoring Sales Manager at Ocean Bank. With extensive experience in banking, he previously served as Senior Vice President and Corporate Lending Officer at U.S. Century Bank and Vice President and Corporate Banking Officer at Mercantil Commercebank N.A. Ignacio holds a BSBA in Finance from the University of Florida. His expertise includes credit analysis, small business lending, and asset-based lending.
Susana Meléndez‑Valencia
PNC Bank
Regional President & Head of Commercial Banking, Texas Border Market
Susana Meléndez-Valencia has over 26 years in finance, serving markets along the Texas–Mexico border. Formerly a leader for BBVA USA, she has focused on tailoring commercial banking to the needs of Spanish-speaking and Latino communities. She emphasizes financial education and wealth-building tools, including Spanish-language products, and has helped improve PNC’s engagement and trust among underserved Hispanic clients.
Fernando Torres Karmy
Principal Financial Group
CFO & Chief Strategy and Business Development Officer, Principal Latin America
Fernando Torres is a seasoned financial executive with over two decades at Principal Financial Group, currently serving as CFO and Strategy Leader for Latin America. He holds an MSc in Finance and Economics from Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile and an MBA from Harvard Business School. Torres has led multiple business units, including Principal Créditos Hipotecarios in Chile and institutional fund management across the region. His leadership spans strategic development, innovation, and corporate finance in both financial services and real estate.
Francisco A. Aristeguieta
Scotiabank
International Banking Executive
Francisco is an experienced CEO with over 30 years leading complex B2C and B2B businesses globally. Currently, he serves as the Global Head of International Banking at Scotiabank. Previously, Francisco was CEO of State Street Institutional Services, overseeing strategic repositioning to a client-centric model. His tenure at Citibank included roles such as CEO Asia and CEO Latin America, where he digitized consumer and wealth management, reshaped corporate and investment banking across regions, and navigated geopolitical challenges in Ecuador, Argentina, and Venezuela. Francisco holds multiple board positions and is a member of The Young Presidents Organization (YPO) since 2003.
Jeffrey Martinez
PNC Bank
Executive Vice President & Head of Branch Banking
Jeffrey (Jeff) Martinez is Executive Vice President and Head of Branch Banking at PNC Bank, overseeing more than 2,400 branches and nearly 16,000 employees nationwide. A U.S. Army National Guard veteran, he is a strong advocate for veterans and Latino communities, serving on multiple nonprofit boards and as Executive Sponsor of PNC’s Latino and Multicultural Employee Business Resource Group. Jeff brings over 20 years of retail banking experience, with past roles at JPMorgan Chase. He holds a business degree from Rutgers University.
Pablo Sprenger
Principal Financial Group
Executive Vice President & President, Principal Latin America
Sprenger is the Executive Vice President of Principal Financial Group® and serves as President of Latin America. He leads teams across Chile, Brazil, and Mexico, managing the firm’s pension and asset management operations, as well as driving sales, distribution, and growth strategies throughout the region. Sprenger sits on multiple Principal subsidiary boards and is currently president of the board at Brasilprev.
Ana Luisa Webb
Principal Financial Group Mexico
CFO & Pension and Asset Management Expert, Principal México
Ana Luisa Webb is a senior finance executive with 27+ years of experience in pensions, asset management, life insurance, and annuities. As CFO and Managing Director at Principal, she has led transformative financial strategies, including M&A transactions, treasury optimization, and operational overhauls. She previously directed Principal Afore and Principal Fondos de Inversión, building top-performing teams and driving innovation in Latin America. Fully bilingual and internationally focused, Webb is known for her strategic vision, collaborative leadership, and ability to deliver measurable growth.
Yvonne Garcia
State Street Corporation
Executive Vice President, North America Asset Manager Client Portfolio Head
Yvonne Garcia is a Fortune 500 C-suite executive with over 25 years of global experience in business strategy, operations, client engagement, and communications. She currently serves as Chief of Staff to the Chairman and CEO at State Street, and leads Internal Communications and the Global CEO Experience Program. Yvonne has held senior roles at Liberty Mutual and Bank of America and is a recognized national leader, serving as Chair of ALPFA’s Corporate Advisory Board and Executive Director of Small Business Strong. She holds an MBA from Boston University and is a Six Sigma Black Belt.
LEADERS IN FINANCE
Gloribel Cruz
TD Bank
Vice President Commercial Real Estate
Cruz is the Vice President at TD Bank, N.A., recognized as America's Most Convenient Bank, with over 19 years of expertise in commercial real estate lending and affordable housing investments. Her strong skills in organizational management, decision-making, and project sales are complemented by a bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish. Gloribel holds a Graduate Certificate in Real Estate Finance from New York University and a BA in Economics with a concentration in International Affairs and Government from Skidmore College.
Roger Aliaga-Díaz
Vanguard
Global head of portfolio construction
Aliaga-Díaz, Ph.D., is Vanguard’s global head of portfolio construction and chief economist for the Americas. He leads a team that develops multi-asset-class strategies and has built the Vanguard Life-Cycle Investing Model and the Vanguard Asset Allocation Model. Roger chairs Vanguard’s Time-Varying Asset Allocation Subcommittee and has co-managed multi-asset-class funds since February 2023.He joined Vanguard in 2007 after serving as a visiting professor of macroeconomics at Drexel University. Roger holds a B.A. in economics from Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Argentina, and a Ph.D. in economics from North Carolina State University.
Ruben Barrales
Wells Fargo
Senior Vice President, External Engagement
Barrales is a seasoned leader with a distinguished career spanning government, business advocacy, and nonprofits. Formerly a Deputy Assistant to the President and Director of White House Intergovernmental Affairs, he now serves as Senior Vice President of External Engagement at Wells Fargo. Barrales is committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, and has been instrumental in advancing Latino representation in California politics through organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and Grow Elect. His work focuses on community relations and strategic initiatives for inclusive growth and civic empowerment.
Bernardo Ramos
Wells Fargo
Managing Director - Client Growth Segment Leader
Ramos is Managing Director and Commercial Banking Hispanic Segment Leader at Wells Fargo, with over 25 years of experience in financial services. He specializes in driving business growth through customer acquisition and expansion in the Hispanic market. With a strong background in sales, operations, and financial management, Ramos is committed to fostering long-term client relationships and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the banking industry.
Alvarado is the Managing Director, Chief Legal Officer, and Corporate Secretary of Texas Capital Bancshares, Inc. She leads legal services, advises the Board of Directors on strategic initiatives and compliance, and manages commercial matters. With a background in global general counsel roles, Anna has driven expansions and acquisitions at FirstCash, Inc. She holds degrees from Bentley University and SMU Dedman School of Law, recognized for her legal expertise and leadership in corporate America.
Eduardo Perez
Senior Vice President, Risk Officer
Perez is responsible for managing risk and ensuring the integrity of Visa's operations in the Latin America and Caribbean region. With a strong career in the payments industry, Perez has contributed significantly to Visa's security strategy.
Valeria Esparza-Chavez
Wells Fargo
Vice President, Strategy and Planning Leader
Esparza-Chavez has spent most of her 18-year financial services career in consumer lending and has deep experience in developing, leading, and activating bank strategies to drive customer growth. She sits on the Corporate Board of Governors of the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals. She is also active in her community and sits on the boards of Family Service of El Paso and Ciudad Nueva. Valeria is a native Spanish speaker, first-generation American, and first-generation college graduate. She earned a BA degree in Psychology from The University of Texas at Austin and has a Master of Business Administration from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst
Visa
BUILDING FINANCIAL WELLNESS FOR LATINO COMMUNITIES
GREGORY “GOYO” SCHIPILLITI CID INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR AND HEAD OF THE LATINO SEGMENT, DAILYPAY
GREGORY “GOYO” Schipilliti Cid , executive at DailyPay, describes his work as a personal mission shaped by family and values. “Every minute not spent uplifting our community is a minute wasted,” he recalls his mother saying, a mantra that continues to guide his leadership. At DailyPay, he sees the company’s investments in Latino and Hispanic communities as proof of a commitment to “help families achieve stability, avoid financial pitfalls, and build brighter futures.”
Leading the Latino segment, he explains, means tailoring the financial wellness platform to meet the distinct realities of Latino employees and businesses. “In practice, this means developing targeted outreach programs, fostering partnerships with organizations that serve Latino communities, and ensuring that DailyPay’s platform is culturally accessible.”
A key part of that approach is DailyPay’s on-demand pay feature, which gives workers immediate access to earned wages. “DailyPay addresses the financial realities of Latino employees by offering on-demand pay solutions that allow workers to access earned wages instantly, reducing reliance on high-interest payday loans, which can disproportionately affect Latino communities,” Schipilliti Cid says. But he notes that the vision is larger than just liquidity. “It’s offering Latino and Hispanic employees the ability to change their financial wellness journey entirely.” To support that journey, the company integrates credit health tools, savings features, and the DailyPay Card. For employers, Schipilliti Cid emphasizes cultural alignment: “We provide seamless benefit integration to enhance
OVER THE NEXT FEW YEARS, THE LATINO SEGMENT AT DAILYPAY IS POISED TO EVOLVE THROUGH EXPANDED GLOBAL REACH AND ENHANCED PRODUCT OFFERINGS.
employee retention and engagement, aligning with cultural values of community and family support.”
The path forward is not without challenges. “Growing the International and Latino segment at DailyPay presents challenges such as regulatory complexities, market penetration, and cultural nuances,” he admits. “A Latino/Hispanic user in Texas, New York, or California can have different types of demands and/or needs than a Hispanic/Latino user in Montreal, Toronto, and/or London.” He insists on non-negotiables: “Leading initiatives with data, community, and culture; where if done right, the commercial value would follow.”
Looking to the future, Schipilliti Cid envisions broader scope and deeper roots. “Over the next few years, the Latino segment at DailyPay is poised to evolve through expanded global reach and enhanced product
offerings,” he says. His goal is “leveraging data-driven insights to refine GTM approaches, financial wellness tools, and much more.” The larger mission is to help address the specific economic challenges Latino communities face while positioning DailyPay as “a leading financial wellness platform for workers, organizations, and communities globally, fostering financial empowerment, to continue creating generational growth.”
His career has prepared him for this responsibility.With experience in banking, consumer packaged goods, hospitality, and fintech, he has led leadership development programs, created strategy departments, and managed billions in financial statements. He summarizes his style as “thoughtful, people-centered leadership, delivering consistent results through data-driven decisions while advancing equity and business with grace (while not compromising results and facts).”
Defining success, Schipilliti Cid draws on his personal background. “I am a product of my roots, shaped by the fierce resilience of my Spanish mother, born under Franco’s dictatorship, and my Argentine father, whose family fled Mussolini’s Italy for a new beginning. My life transformed when I met my wife, a proud Peruvian whose heritage complements my own.” For him, true achievement is answering yes to three missions: “Be a loving, present husband and father, fostering generational homes of trust, growth, and joy. Advance financial wellness and economic empowerment for all humanity. Empower and elevate the Hispanic and Latino community, inspired by my family—tell me the KPI, and I’ll strive to 3x it before my time is up.”
Courtesy of DailyPay
Andrea Piña Courtesy of Wendy Franco Carlos Cuevas
GUIDING CLIENTS AND COMMUNITIES THROUGH FINANCE
Wendy Franco, Senior Vice President and Business Banking Market Executive, Bank of America
WENDY FRANCO, Senior Vice President and Business Banking Market Executive at Bank of America, has built her career on a simple but powerful idea: banking is not just about selling products, it is about advising people and helping them build financial health. Her journey from frontline banking to executive leadership reflects a consistent focus on people— clients, communities, and teams.
Franco began her career in a sales role as a Teller, 22 years ago. Early on, she faced a defining question: was her role limited to offering financial products, or did it carry a broader responsibility? The answer came quickly as she recognized that what clients needed most was guidance. Many were searching for direction on saving, building credit, and understanding how financial stability could shape their future. This realization changed the way she approached her work. She understood that banking could have a direct impact on people’s lives, and she embraced a purpose rooted in helping individuals gain stability and create long-term opportunities.
As her career advanced, Franco moved into leadership roles, including serving as a Financial Center Manager. These positions strengthened her view that clients are the most valuable asset and that success in finance is collective. The relationships she built—with both clients and teammates—defined her journey and provided the foundation for her leadership philosophy.
When asked about the technical and strategic skills that have been most important, Franco points to the value of understanding industries at a deep level. Each community is different, and the ability to recognize which industries drive local economies allows financial leaders to better support clients. For
SHE DESCRIBES HER APPROACH AS COLLABORATIVE AND GROUNDED IN AUTHENTICITY.
FRANCO’S PATH
IN FINANCE ILLUSTRATES
HOW LEADERSHIP GROUNDED IN PURPOSE, COMMUNITY, AND AUTHENTICITY CAN INFLUENCE BOTH PEOPLE AND ORGANIZATIONS.
her, connecting financial strategies to community realities is critical. That insight not only shapes stronger client relationships but also ties financial success to profitability, resilience, and growth across industries.
Her leadership style reflects this focus on connection. Franco describes her approach as collaborative and grounded in authenticity. She emphasizes working side by side with her teams in serving clients, while also encouraging openness. Over time, she has embraced vulnerability as a strength, showing that leaders do not need to have all the answers. By being transparent about her own learning process, she creates an environment where others can grow with confidence. This openness, she believes, is what fuels both innovation and resilience in her teams.
Difficult decisions are part of any leadership journey, and Franco acknowledges that she has had to make choices that balanced competing interests. One example has been exiting long-standing client relationships when the risk outweighed the potential ben-
efits. Such moments, while never easy, required her to put the long-term stability and protection of the business first. In her view, these decisions must be guided by discipline, transparency, and a commitment to safeguarding the organization’s future, even when the immediate path is challenging.
Looking at the broader finance sector, Franco sees economic disruption as both the greatest challenge and the greatest opportunity. External forces—from global markets to local shifts—affect clients, businesses, and communities in ways that are often beyond their control. In such a context, financial institutions play a vital role as trusted partners. Guiding clients through volatility and building resilience can determine which firms emerge stronger. For Franco, the institutions that help their communities navigate uncertainty with confidence will be the ones best positioned for long-term growth.
Her priorities over the next five years reflect both personal and professional dimensions. On a personal level, she is focused on being the best
ABOUT
Experienced Business Banking with a demonstrated history of working in the banking industry. Skilled in Banking, Sales, Branch Management, Credit Cards, and Team Building. Strong entrepreneurship professional with a Bachelors (B.A) in International Relations and Affairs and a minor in business administration from the University of Nevada Reno.
mother she can be, preparing her children for the transition to adulthood and independence. On the professional side, she is intent on continuing her growth as an executive leader. This includes strengthening her presence in the community, refining her strategic influence, and building her brand within the industry. To stay on course, she holds herself accountable through deliberate reflection on daily, weekly, and monthly goals.
Franco’s path in finance illustrates how leadership grounded in purpose, community, and authenticity can influence both people and organizations. Her perspective highlights not only what it means to lead in banking today but also what it takes to prepare for the future: the ability to guide others through uncertainty, while staying true to core priorities that endure over time.
LEADERS IN FINANCE
PAULA PASCHOAL EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, MARKET DEVELOPMENT, MASTERCARD LAC
DRIVING FINANCE FORWARD
Paula Paschoal’s journey in finance has been shaped by constant change, new geographies, and the determination to make financial systems more accessible. Today, as Executive Vice President of Market Development at Mastercard Latin America and the Caribbean, she leads efforts across 45 countries and territories, driving partnerships that aim to expand inclusion and economic opportunity.
PAULA PASCHOAL
Latino Leaders Courtesy of Mastercard Moisés Cervantes
Her career began in 2010 at PayPal, just as the company was establishing its presence in Brazil. It was there that she saw the power of technology to open doors for millions of people who had been left out of traditional financial systems. Rising to Country Manager of PayPal Brazil became a defining milestone. The role placed her at the center of a fast-evolving market and gave her a deeper passion for digital payments. After PayPal, she joined Google, where she managed projects across different regions. The experience required her to understand how local rules and consumer behaviors shaped financial services. This global perspective became a valuable skill that she continues to draw on in her current position. At Mastercard, she is now focused on scaling solutions that support financial resilience and trust in a region that is rapidly moving away from cash.
The region is home to some of the world’s most dynamic economies and an increasingly tech-savvy population, yet millions remain unbanked or underbanked. Cash still dominates daily transactions in many countries, creating barriers to efficiency and financial security. The rise of digital payments has begun to shift this reality, but progress is uneven. Paula’s work is centered on accelerating this transformation, ensuring that digital tools are not only accessible but also relevant to the diverse cultures and needs across the region.
When asked what has been most critical to her success, Paula points to collaboration and focus. For her, strategic thinking is important, but the ability to bring people together is what creates lasting results. Staying curious, open to learning, and willing to pivot when things do not go as planned have guided her through key transitions. “It is about solving the right problem, collaborating honestly, and being ready to change course when necessary,” she explains.
Leadership for Paula has been an ongoing process of growth. Early in her career she was driven by execution and delivery. The turning point came with motherhood, which shifted her perspective from outcomes alone to the importance of building trust and empowering others. She now defines her style as people-centered. Listening, coaching, and creating space for her teams to succeed are at the core of her approach. She believes leadership today is about alignment and agility, but also about giving diverse voices room to be heard.
Some of her toughest financial decisions were not corporate, but personal. Twice in her career she moved her family across borders for work. Each move was exciting professionally but brought challenges behind the scenes. Relocating meant thinking not only about her own career but also about her spouse’s opportunities, and the impact of switching currencies on savings and retirement. Balancing longterm opportunities with short-term disruption was never easy, yet these experiences gave her an up-close view of the same issues the financial sector works to address: cross-border payments, credit access, and financial resilience.
She believes leadership today is about alignment and agility, but also about giving diverse voices room to be heard.
The timing of these lessons is critical. Latin America is experiencing one of the fastest shifts to digital payments anywhere in the world. According to the World Bank, roughly 70 percent of adults in the region now have some form of account access, a dramatic increase over the past decade. Mobile banking apps and fintech startups have exploded, creating opportunities for consumers who once had limited or no access to formal financial services. Still, millions remain outside the system, relying on cash not only for transactions but also as their main form of savings.
For Paula, this is both a challenge and an opportunity. She sees the financial sector in Latin America and the Caribbean at a turning point. On the opportunity side, digital payments are becoming mainstream. Simplifying the payment process and embedding financial services into everyday life can expand access and improve experiences. New technologies like Agentic Commerce and artificial intelligence are opening possibilities for smarter credit, fraud prevention, and personalization. Partnerships with fintechs and open banking are helping to break down long-standing barriers.
But challenges remain. Working across 45 countries with different regulations is complex. Trust is also critical, as people will only use digital tools if they feel secure. Combating fraud is becoming more urgent as threats grow in sophistication. Perhaps most importantly, serving the underbanked with relevant and scalable solutions will be essential for lasting progress. “If digital tools don’t offer a better experience, people tend to fall back on what they know,” she notes, pointing out the ongoing importance of financial inclusion efforts.
Paula’s goals for the next five years combine personal and organizational priorities. On a personal level, she is committed to mentoring the next generation of women in finance and continuing to expand her impact across the region. For Mastercard, the focus will be on scaling inclusive products that are digital-first and tailored to local needs. This means deepening strategic partnerships, investing in local talent, and keeping close attention on what customers require.
She sums it up with a principle that guides her approach: “Our responsibility for creating opportunities for others rises in proportion to our privilege.”
TRUST FOR GROWTH
Tony Sciarrino, Head, U.S. Commercial Bank, BMO
US interview with Ricardo Mendez-Acevedo, CFO, KUA
Tony Sciarrino: Could you share what challenges you've lived through as a CFO and also as a business executive that have served as an important lesson for you in your life?
Ricardo Mendez-Acevedo: Thank you, Tony. I always like to start by saying that everything started with a dream. My boss, KUA’s CEO, wanted to do something different, something that did not exist. It might sound trivial now to have a platform of food and beverage companies, but our thesis was based on acquiring companies. I was born and raised in Mexico, so we started this business in Mexico City, acquiring very small companies there, those with potential. We were dreamers, and we are still dreamers.
Many years ago, we held countless meetings with private equity investors, VCs, banks, and other potential partners. Everybody initially was saying, “No, there's nothing here.” But we ultimately secured 80 million dollars in funding. We were exploring many companies, and not all of them made a good fit with us strategically or from a partnership standpoint. And coming to your question, one of the first challenges I faced was
which one to pick. Other executives were pushing for some acquisitions that best served their interests, but as a CFO, I had to make very tough decisions. If a business is not performing well or an executive is not delivering, you have to raise your hand and potentially shut down a division or a business.
TS: You were talking about obviously doing business in Mexico, now you're doing business here in U.S. What have you seen that has helped with the company's journey in that regard?
RM: We moved into the U.S. in 2021. We transformed our company from a Mexican corporation into an LLC. incorporated in Delaware. During those times, 75% of our revenues came from the U.S. The U.S market is huge. For us, it was amazing how everything grew, and everything was easier compared to Mexican operations. However, we were facing an important challenge of growth. Our company was growing so quickly that we needed capital to continue investing in production lines, warehouses and distribution. However, our free cash flow, our internal free cash flow was not enough.
TONY SCIARRINO
A year ago, when the BMO Index500 ceremony in Chicago took place, I came with our CEO and we met the BMO Team. One week later we were meeting, we were discussing potential opportunities for our company. Something that I have to say very clearly here is that your team understood perfectly our needs and our vision for the company. So, I don't have words to properly say thanks because you trusted us and we secured that funding that was necessary for growing our company further. We are about to launch a new production line in our factory in Wisconsin. That will double our capacity, and it will make us much more efficient with higher quality products. We'll be able to reach new clients that we didn't have the opportunity to reach before with our previous technology. With this new technology, we'll be able to do that. And I want to thank your team for this.
TS: What else would you recommend to other fellow CFOs or business owners as they look at growing their business?
RM: Well, it's easier to say than to do. The first thing is to choose carefully your partners, even when you feel that you need that money urgently. A partnership is like a marriage. If you don't have a fit with your investor, things will not work well. We're fortunate, but I have friends with similar other ventures that have failed because of that, so it's very important. And second, invest on the corporate governance of your company. It pays a lot. Corporate governance also means audited financials, on time tax returns, audit committees, and board meetings to just name a few. It sounds trivial, but it is not. Those two recommendations made all the difference for us.
• Index500 Rank: 79
• Revenue per year: USD $280 Million
• Employee count: 1,400
• Segment: Food and beverage
• CEO: Raul Pelaez
•CFO: Ricardo Mendez-Acevedo
• Name inspiration: In Nahuatl, KUA means “To holistically feed the body and the spirit”. Its brands and values reflect this ideal.
• U.S. Headquarters: Chicago, IL
• Factories: Wisconsin (USA) and Mexico City (Mexico)
• Business description: KUA brings bold flavors to the candy aisle, with Warheads and Melster leading in retail and a strong co-manufacturing business. Its portfolio covers sour candy, hard candy, and chewy non-chocolate favorites like gummies, worms, and cubes.
• BMO Solution: BMO brought unparalleled industry expertise with a flexible financing solution and syndication capability to KUA of $100 million in 2025. BMO’s commitment to the Latino Leaders Index500 also ultimately led to client discovery phase.
RICARDO MENDEZ-ACEVEDO
LEADERS IN FINANCE
THE LATINO WEALTH JOURNEY: INSIGHTS FROM MORGAN STANLEY’S 2024 REPORT
Morgan Stanley’s 2024 Latino Wealth Report examines how Hispanic and Latino communities in the United States define, pursue, and experience wealth. Drawing from surveys of 623 High Net Worth (HNW) and Emerging Affluent (EA) individuals, it highlights the motivations, barriers, and strategies shaping multigenerational wealth accumulation.
What Wealth Means
For Latino investors, wealth extends beyond financial metrics to include financial independence, family well-being, and personal freedom. The survey highlights three main interpretations of wealth: financial independence (28%), caring for family (19%), and freedom (18%). Younger Latinos and EAs more often emphasize independence, while older respondents prioritize family security.
This family-first mindset translates into a strong commitment to building wealth across the community. Nearly all respondents (96%) agreed that accumulating wealth is important, with unanimous agreement among Generation Z and Dominican participants. Goals center on family well-being, supporting children and the elderly, and passing down financial literacy. In fact, eighty-five percent of new parents said they became more engaged in building wealth and felt a strong sense of urgency to improve financial literacy early for their children. These wealth-building goals are deeply tied to responsibility and honoring family sacrifices. Respondents cited expectations of success (78%), work ethic (70%), and responsibility to family
FINANCIAL KNOWLEDGE & ADVISEMENT
• 60% currently work with a financial advisor; 72% rely on professional advice overall.
• HNW investors are more engaged in planning, while EAs often value financial advisors with cultural understanding of their background.
• Generational differences:
• Gen X/Boomers > 80% rely on financial advisors.
• Gen Z/Millennials > 63% rely on financial advisors.
ECONOMIC GROWTH
• The Hispanic/Latino population in the U.S. has grown to 65M+ people, producing $2.8 trillion in economic output and nearly 5M businesses.
• They are one of the youngest and fastestgrowing minority groups with an average age of 33.7 years.
• Latinos have increased their wealth year over year since 2019, and uniquely, they were the only group to grow wealth in 2022 (+9.5%) despite a nationwide decline .
“85% OF NEW PARENTS SAID THEY BECAME MORE ENGAGED IN BUILDING WEALTH.”
(63%) as primary motivators. Both HNWs and EAs shared these drivers, though HNWs emphasized work ethic more, while EAs stressed responsibility and external expectations.
Barriers and Opportunities
The report also highlights key challenges that hinder wealth-building, including limited financial education, lack of financial resources growing up, and reduced access to affluent networks. These barriers were more prevalent among EAs, 77 percent of whom cited lack of financial education compared with 48 percent of HNWs. Student debt and lack of confidence were also noted by EAs as significant obstacles.
Financial Advisors (FAs) play an important role in Latino wealth strategies. Sixty percent of respondents currently work with an FA, while 72 percent rely on professional advice in some form. HNWs are more likely than EAs to engage actively in financial planning. Generational differences are also evident: 80 percent of Generation X and Boomers rely on professional advisors, compared with 63 percent of Generation Z and Millennials.
“THIS FAMILY-FIRST MINDSET TRANSLATES INTO A STRONG COMMITMENT TO BUILDING WEALTH ACROSS THE COMMUNITY.”
“ENTREPRENEURSHIP IS A CENTRAL PATH TO WEALTH CREATION, WITH NEARLY ONEQUARTER OF RESPONDENTS IDENTIFYING AS SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS. THEY MOST OFTEN REINVEST PROFITS (81%), USE PERSONAL SAVINGS (76%), AND TIE BUSINESS
PERFORMANCE DIRECTLY TO PERSONAL WEALTH ACCUMULATION
(68%).”
Cultural understanding is a deciding factor for many when selecting an FA. Emerging Affluents, women, and those with household incomes below $400,000 place greater importance on finding an FA who understands their background and experiences.
Entrepreneurship is a central path to wealth creation, with nearly one-quarter of respondents identifying as small business owners. They most often reinvest profits (81%), use personal savings (76%), and tie business performance directly to personal wealth accumulation (68%). Yet only 24 percent used an FA when launching their business, with many later wishing they had guidance on accessing capital programs and structuring investments.
Real estate is another key investment channel for building wealth. Eighty-seven percent of respondents view property ownership as a path to wealth, with 45 percent owning at least one property and 39 percent holding two or more. High Net Worth individuals are more likely to hold multiple properties, while EAs are more likely to own none. Despite this, EAs showed stronger interest in future purchases, though they often perceived the process as complicated.
Key Takeaways
The 2024 findings reveal a powerful and consistent theme: for Latinos in the United States, wealth is not merely about financial gain, it’s also about freedom, family well-being, and multigenerational stability.
MEANING OF WEALTH
• Wealth is seen as multidimensional and altruistic:
• Financial independence (28%)
• Caring for family’s well-being (19%)
• Freedom/flexibility (18%)
• Distinctions by subgroup:
• Younger Latinos > financial independence and freedom.
• Older Latinos > family support and legacy.
• Women > more likely to emphasize independence and impact on society.
• Spanish term “riqueza” reflects both tangible and intangible abundance, including ihealth, well-being, and relationships .
BARRIERS TO WEALTH
• Common obstacles:
• Limited financial resources growing up.
• Lack of financial education.
• Limited access to affluent networks.
• Confidence gaps and minority stereotypes.
• Emerging Affluents (EA) face stronger barriers than High Net Worth (HNW) individuals:
• 77% cite limited financial education (vs. 48% for HNWs).
• More likely to struggle with student debt and confidence .
• Freedom as Wealth: Among small business owners, wealth is most often defined as freedom and the ability to make choices that benefit oneself and one’s family. Notably, 31% of small business owners describe wealth this way, compared to just 14% of nonbusiness owners.
• Navigating Dual Worlds: Emerging Affluents are actively bridging two spheres: social circles formed through college, work, and relationships, and the complex world of finance. This duality shapes their financial behaviors and aspirations.
• Investment-Driven Mindset: Despite financial constraints like debt and limited liquidity, Emerging Affluents—especially Millennials and Gen X—are highly engaged with stock investing and workplace retirement plans. Their proactive approach signals a strong desire to build long-term financial security.
• Urgency to Build Wealth: A striking 90% of Emerging Affluents believe in starting wealth-building early to accelerate multigenerational wealth accumulation. This urgency reflects a deep commitment to securing a better future for their families.
These insights underscore the importance of expanding financial literacy, strengthening advisory relationships, and simplifying access to ownership opportunities. Through this lens, Morgan Stanley’s study deepens our understanding of how Latino communities are navigating structural and cultural dynamics to build lasting wealth.
In today’s fast-evolving financial landscape, access, inclusion, and adaptability are at the center of conversations about economic empowerment. Latino Leaders sat down with Morgan Stanley executives James Cotto, Ileana Musa, Juan Carlos, and Charlie Ramos to discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping finance for individuals, small businesses, and entire communities. Their insights, drawn from years of guiding clients through volatile markets, paint a vivid picture of where finance is headed — and how innovation and literacy can ensure no one is left behind.
Access to Capital: Breaking Down Barriers
For entrepreneurs and small business owners, capital remains one of the most pressing challenges. James Cotto sees two main obstacles that continue to weigh heavily on borrowers.
“I believe the biggest barriers include the current high interest rates, along with a lack of proper financial planning,” Cotto explained. “Higher rates create larger payment schedules and a higher cost to carry the loan which is a larger commitment to borrowers. This higher debt to income ratio environment creates a bigger concern for capital lending. Furthermore, this coupled with a lack of long-term financial planning doesn’t help reassure lenders of the solvency of these entrepreneurs.”
The landscape is changing, however, as financial institutions look for ways to adapt traditional lending models to better serve minority and underrepresented communities. Ileana Musa highlighted a shift toward more inclusive approaches.
“There are numerous trends across financial services including alternative credit assessments that move beyond traditional FICO scores, community-based lending to reach borrowers who may not engage with large banks, and the tech and FinTech integration that is leading to more digital lending platforms for broader reach,” she said.
Beyond traditional loans, business owners are increasingly encouraged to explore innovative funding
solutions. Musa pointed to opportunities that exist within wealth management strategies themselves.
“It’s important to first highlight the benefits of leveraging Wealth Man agement lending solutions that sit at the intersection of credit and strategy and may be underutilized compared to traditional loans,” she noted. “Securities Based Lending where clients may bor row against an investment portfolio without liquidating their invest ment portfolio. This liquidity may be deployed for bridge financing, business expansion and liquidity for personal needs.”
For ultra-high-net-worth in dividuals, customization is key.
“We deliver tailored credit lines designed to meet the unique financial needs of business owners, whose personal and company finances are often
James Cotto MANAGING DIRECTOR- WEALTH ADVISOR, THE COTTO WEALTH MANAGEMENT GROUP
interconnected,” Musa added. “This holistic approach enables us to offer compelling alternatives to conventional banking solutions, providing greater flexibility and customization to support the complex needs of our clients.”
Wealth Management: Building Confidence and Consistency
When it comes to wealth building, the journey often begins with mastering fundamentals rather than chasing fast results. Juan Carlos captured this idea through a sports metaphor.
“Building wealth is a lot like learning tennis. You don’t step onto the court expecting to hit aces right away. First, you learn the fundamentals — your grip, your footwork, your swing. For new investors, that means understanding your cash flow, saving consistently, and managing debt before trying to chase big returns,” he said. “Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s about rallying and showing up consistently, hitting ball after ball, and staying in the game. Over time, that discipline builds confidence and results.”
Balancing long-term preservation with short-term needs is an ongoing challenge, especially in volatile markets. Charlie Ramos emphasized the importance of framing goals within the context of time.
“The most important thing about achieving financial goals is time, or perhaps when the goals are to be achieved,” Ramos said. “It is also important to recognize that long-term wealth preservation is a function of ensuring that the wealth is not eroded by inflation. To that end, it is paramount to have a well-balanced, diversified portfolio that includes cash, bonds, stocks, and, when appropriate, alternative investments.”
Each element of the portfolio has a role: cash for immediate needs, bonds as a source of income, high-quality stocks for long-term appreciation, and alternatives such as real estate to reduce volatility and diversify risk. “Good planning involves a good understanding of short-term financial goals, coupled with the timeframe of when these goals are to be accomplished and ensuring there is sufficient cash on hand for short-term needs,” Ramos added. “Reducing the uncertainty of achieving short-term goals allows us to be good long-term investors, focused on achieving more consistent positive outcomes.”
At the core of all successful strategies is literacy — not just for clients but as part of daily engagement. Cotto underscored its role.
“As a Financial Advisor, I believe financial literacy should be a daily practice when engaging with clients,” he said. “There is an overabundance of both good and bad information spread across the internet and clients need help understanding the various strategies and investment ideas proposed to them. Having a strong foundation creates financial empowerment. It gives our clients a deeper understanding of their finances, a voice in the discussion and confidence in the decisions they are making… are well thought out and within their risk tolerance, needs, and goals timelines.”
Commercial Banking: Technology as a Game-Changer
The digital revolution is reshaping not just personal wealth management, but also the way businesses interact with banks. For Musa, technology is fundamentally changing client relationships.
“Technology is reshaping the way clients and businesses interact with their banks by offering digital capabilities which enable more efficient operations, deeper data-driven insights and personalized service,” she said. “Our platform modernization allows clients to manage their banking relationship digitally in combination with an advice model that allows them to leverage expertise. This strategy is important for serving next-gen clients.”
Juan Carlos Carrera EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, INTERNATIONAL CLIENT AND PRIVATE WEALTH ADVISOR THE NEW YORK LATIN AMERICA GROUP
Ileana Musa MANAGING DIRECTOR, HEAD OF SALES PRIVATE BANK
LEADERS IN FINANCE
Generative AI has already been integrated into Morgan Stanley’s Wealth Management business, Musa noted, enabling teams to retrieve information faster and scale insights. “Another example is our Debrief tool which summarizes client meetings, creating operational efficiency,” she added.
For mid-sized companies, growth often depends on having the right financial infrastructure. Juan Carlos likened scaling to climbing a mountain.
“Ambition gets you to the trailhead, but the right gear and guides are what get you to the summit,” he said. “In commercial banking, that ‘gear’ is access to the right credit lines, treasury tools, and risk management solutions. A company can’t scale without oxygen and in business, that oxygen is liquidity. With the right financial partner, midsize companies don’t just climb higher, they climb smarter, avoiding unnecessary risks and making sure every step forward is sustainable.”
Tools and Resources: Expanding Financial Empowerment
Practical tools, combined with disciplined habits, are central to financial empowerment. Ramos emphasized the importance of systems that reinforce positive behaviors.
“Taking control of your financial future comes down to systems, tools, and habits, which help support good habits,” he explained. He pointed to budgeting, expense management, estate planning, retirement accounts, and tax compliance as essential tools for both individuals and businesses. “That mentioned, individuals and businesses can also consider working with experienced advisors such as CPAs, tax professionals, attorneys, and financial advisors.”
Cotto sees collaboration as essential in broadening empowerment, particularly through partnerships.
“Knowledge is key to financial empowerment. One bad decision could affect their business life and thereby stunt the development of their personal goals or vice versa,” he said. “Therefore, banks, fintechs, and community organizations really need to work together to help provide better information to our community and help our community look at their finances holistically and not in silos, which is how many individuals are currently reviewing their finances.”
Looking ahead, Juan Carlos believes the future of financial access will mirror the democratization of air travel.
“The future of finance reminds me of air travel. For decades, only a few could afford to fly, but then innovations like budget airlines, online booking, global networks opened the skies to millions,” he said. “We’re seeing the same thing in banking. Digital platforms, AI-driven financial guidance, and open banking partnerships are making tools that once belonged only to big institutions accessible to everyday people and small businesses. The real game-changer is that finance is becoming less intimidating and more inclusive. We’re lowering the barriers to entry, just like airlines opened new runways for travelers around the world.”
A Shared Vision
What emerges from these conversations is a shared commitment to expanding access, equipping clients with literacy and tools, and leveraging technology to bridge gaps. Whether through innovative lending solutions, diversified wealth management, or partnerships that bring communities into the financial fold, these leaders envision a future where finance is not a barrier but a bridge. The metaphors they use — tennis, mountain climbing, air travel — remind us that finance, like life, is a journey. With patience, discipline, the right gear, and a focus on inclusivity, more people will have the chance to not just play the game but win it.
Charlie A. Ramos FIRST VICE PRESIDENT, FINANCIAL ADVISOR THE DANIELS GROUP
BY FRANCISCO ARIAS
THE CIGAR: A TIMELESS TOOL FOR CONNECTION AND BUSINESS GROWTH
In an era where most conversations are compressed into emails, video calls, and hurried exchanges, the cigar lounge remains one of the few spaces where time slows down, and where genuine human connection thrives. For centuries, cigars have carried more than flavor and aroma; they have been a catalyst for relationships, a bridge across industries, and a setting for meaningful business development.
LIGHTING A CIGAR creates a pause. In that pause, walls come down. Deals that require trust, empathy, and understanding are rarely finalized in boardrooms; they are forged in settings where people can be themselves. The shared ritual of cutting, toasting, and savoring a cigar creates a natural rhythm of conversation. There are no rushed conclusions, only unhurried dialogue, where ideas can breathe.
Camaraderie is built in these moments. In cigar lounges, global leaders sit shou lder to shoulder with first-time entrepreneurs; seasoned investors strike up conversations with creatives; and cultures converge over the shared appreciation of craftsmanship. Unlike bars or formal dinners, cigar spaces are uniquely designed to promote conversation rather than distraction. The aroma of premium tobacco invites reflection, and
the etiquette of cigar culture, respect, patience, and storytelling, naturally cultivates relationships that last. For professionals seeking to develop their network, cigars provide a powerful advantage. A well curated cigar selection or hosting a cigar-pairing evening shows attention to detail and a respect for tradition. It demonstrates a willingness to invest in relationships, not just transactions. Whether pairing a Cuban classic with a single malt Scotch or introducing a guest to a boutique Nicaraguan blend, these gestures create memories that strengthen bonds far beyond the event. The business world has changed, but cigars continue to
thrive as a symbol of sophistication and connection. In a single lounge, conversations may span venture capital, art, politics, and philanthropy, often leading to unexpected collaborations. Leaders who embrace this culture understand that relationships are the true currency of success.
At its heart, cigar camaraderie is about more than smoke, it is about presence. Each draw encourages reflection; each shared story builds trust. In a world of constant acceleration, the cigar remains an intentional pause, a reminder that strong partnerships aren’t rushed, but nurtured, one conversation, and one cigar, at a time.
Francisco Arias Certified Cigar Sommelier
Networking Event with the Dallas YPO (Young Presidents Organization) at the Mexican Cigar Club
LATINO LEADERS CELLAR
WINES READY FOR FALL
Jorge Ferráez @ JFerraez_Latino @ferraez.wine Luis E. González
Muga "Flor de Muga", White, 2021, Rioja
• It opens fantastically with a nose of white flowers, herbs de Provence and vanilla. On the palate it simply shines! Unfolding notes with herbs, cardamom, orange blossom, crushed flowers, and white fruits. The wine is simple but ample in aromas on a medium-bodied structure. Bold, fresh and bright! Snacks, cheeses, ceviche or seafood cocktails go very well.
Trujillo Wines "Gary Morisoli Vineyard",Cabernet Sauvignon, 2019, Napa Valley
• Excellent expression of Cabernet Sauvignon here. Intense color and with ruby-violet tones. On the nose it opens wide and generously with lots of ripe red fruit, such as black cherry, plum, raspberry and some hints of grape jam. On the palate it is silky and at the same time powerful, with a refined structure and balance. The peppery and white chocolate notes come as it continues to evolve. Simply delicious and beautifully crafted by renowned winemaker Michael Trujillo! I would take this one with a big, juicy steak and a baked potato with everything!
Chateau du Cèdre "Extra Libre" Cahors, Malbec, 2023
• Wow! From the very appearance of color with pale reddish tones it begins to show its age and delicious maturation. Over 21 years old, with soft tannins, notes of date, prunes and mint. On the palate it is silky, round and continues to evolve with earthy and chocolatey touches. A delicious wine, just in its moment. A Paella Mixta would be perfect!
Chateau Hosanna, Pomerol, 2007
• This is an amazing Bordeaux! Ample with green pepper, dark chocolate and ripe cherry nose. A well-balanced and round wine with a Pomerol character; red currant, spicy notes and cherry. Complex, elegant and intense. At 18 years of age, it is an excellent drink, with absolute balance and roundness. A fabulous wine! This one deserves a great dish, made with sauce like Green Pepper for a beef steak, blackberry sauce for a roasted duck, or a marinated pork tenderloin.
La Guigasse "Chapelle St. Theodoric", 2020, Chateauneuf-du-Pape)
• The first nose is intense cherry, chocolate and cinnamon with spicy notes, and medium to full-bodied structure. It is a silky and flowery wine with a wide variety of red fruit flavors and coffee notes. Long finish with complex, spicy notes. Very aromatic and succulent! Ideal to accompany game birds, barbecue or lamb chops.
TORRES "Mas La Plana", Cabernet Sauvignon 2017, Penedès
• Dark red and bloody colors, with an elegant opening with aromas of currants and black pepper. On the palate it is balanced and round with refined, round tannins showing more currants, blackberries and blueberries.
Large, deep and concentrated body with scented accents. A constant in quality and sophistication of Casa Torres in Catalonia. This wine is ideal to drink with a leg of lamb, roasted suckling pig, carnitas in tacos or any cut of grilled meat.
