Rev. Carmen Gloria Hernandez, born in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, and raised in New York City since she was just six months old, has spent her life dedicated to serving her community. As the founder and President of The NYC LGBTQS Chamber of Commerce, along with several other organizations like Stratford Community Services and the 1471-73 Watson Ave Resident Council, she is a powerhouse of leadership and support for small businesses in NYC. Her passion for community empowerment has earned her a well-deserved reputation as one of the leading Latina advocates for small businesses in the city.
When asked about what makes her proud to lead a Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Rev. Hernandez’s response is simple yet heartfelt: “Seeing my community succeed makes me the proudest person alive.” Her pride comes from witnessing the growth and achievements of small business owners, particularly those from Hispanic and LGBTQ+ backgrounds. After 50 years of community service in New York City, her dedication to helping others thrive has become the hallmark of her career.
Rev. Hernandez emphasizes the importance of supporting Hispanic business owners and entrepreneurs, explaining that her Chamber of Commerce is there “to serve them, to empower them,” and won’t rest until every entrepreneur reaches their desired level of success. It’s not just about offering resources; it’s about building a support system that educates, equips, and mobilizes small businesses to achieve their goals.
When asked what more people should know about the local Hispanic business community, Rev. Hernandez wants everyone to understand that these businesses are not alone. “We are really here to serve them, and to empower them,” she says. Her chamber offers resources, networking opportunities, and a dedicated support network, ensuring that local business owners know they have someone in their corner, helping them navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.
Her advice for supporting Hispanic business owners is straightforward: get involved. Whether it’s through education, collaboration, or becoming more active in your local chamber of commerce, Rev. Hernandez believes the key to success lies in unity and knowledge. “Connect with your chamber President,” she advises, “and be more involved in what we are doing.”
Through her lifelong commitment to community service and leadership, Rev. Carmen Gloria Hernandez continues to inspire, uplift, and empower the next generation of Hispanic and LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs in NYC.
