President of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Tampa Bay (HCCTB) | Owner of Vivid Consulting Group LLC
Mercedes Young is a dynamic leader, entrepreneur, author, and international trainer committed to advancing the economic and personal development of the Hispanic and Latino community. As the President of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Tampa Bay (HCCTB), she leads with passion, vision, and purpose—advocating for minority-owned businesses, creating spaces for professional growth, and building bridges across sectors to foster inclusive prosperity.
She is also the founder and CEO of Vivid Consulting Group LLC, where she empowers clients through strategic consulting, business development, and transformational training. In her book, Prosperity Through Service, Mercedes shares her unique approach to success, rooted in the belief that meaningful service and strong community values are at the core of true prosperity.
Mercedes serves on five boards across local, national, and international platforms—further extending her impact in leadership, innovation, and equity. Beyond her professional achievements, she is a proud mother, wife, and cancer survivor, embodying resilience and strength in every facet of her life.
“We have a great presence as Hispanics in every area of service. We are catalysts of progress in the Tampa Bay area,” Mercedes explains. “Our community thrives because we preserve unity, collaboration, and a team-centered mindset. That spirit fuels me daily to lead the Chamber with purpose and drive.”
Tampa Bay is among the fastest-growing regions in the United States—an accomplishment that Mercedes attributes to a shared commitment to excellence, community, and service. “This growth isn’t accidental,” she says. “It’s powered by local talent, visionary entrepreneurs, and a strong sense of civic pride. We are not only residents—we are the developers and architects of this community.”
Under her leadership, HCCTB has implemented innovative initiatives that support both personal and business development. “I believe business development starts from the inside out,” she notes. “That means cultivating personal growth as a foundation for professional success.”
Through a wide array of programs—including speed networking events, business luncheons, one-on-one support for certifications and proposal writing, and training sessions—the Chamber ensures its members are not just visible but truly empowered. “Our goal is to create the ‘contact to get the contract,’” Mercedes emphasizes.
The HCCTB board is a diverse and accurate reflection of the community it serves, embodying a commitment to representation, transparency, and impact.
Mercedes Young continues to be a powerful voice for Hispanic entrepreneurs and a driving force in shaping a more inclusive and thriving business landscape in Tampa Bay and beyond.