Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll, known worldwide simply as Shakira, was born on February 2, 1977, in Barranquilla, Colombia. From a very young age, she showed a natural talent for music, dance, and poetry—writing her first song at the age of eight and recording her first album at thirteen.
Elena Poniatowska is, without a doubt, one of the most powerful and committed voices in Latin American literature and journalism. Although she was born in Paris, France, in 1932, her heart, her voice, and her struggle have been deeply Mexican.
Brenda Aguirre is a proud Tijuana-born immigrant, queer Latina, and emerging leader shaping San Diego’s political and social justice landscape. Rooted in the borderlands, her journey reflects cultural pride, lived experience, and a deep commitment to empowering historically marginalized communities.
Adria Arjona Torres was born on April 25, 1992, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, but from an early age, she learned that the world could be her home. The daughter of former Miss Puerto Rico Leslie Torres and famous Guatemalan singer-songwriter Ricardo Arjona, Adria grew up surrounded by airplanes, concert stages, and the music that filled her father’s tours.
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.
Ms. Warren has over 37 years of healthcare experience and has been a dedicated leader at Community Health Group since 1994. She is passionate about making sure individuals have access to quality health services and is honored to have spent decades working with a mission-driven organization dedicated to serving its members.
Norma Escandón is redefining what it means to age with confidence, grace, and bold self-expression. As the founder of Cuarentonas y Más Felices, a powerful digital platform and lifestyle movement, Norma has become one of the most influential Latina voices for women over 40 — and she’s doing it on her own terms.
In the vibrant landscape of community leadership, few shine as brightly—or uniquely—as Jenny Ng, known affectionately by colleagues and friends as “The Unicorn.” As a fourth-generation Chinese immigrant born and raised in Tijuana, Mexico, and later moving to the United States at the age of 15, Jenny brings an extraordinary multicultural lens to everything she does.
This month, we proudly spotlight a trailblazing leader whose work continues to elevate the nonprofit sector and inspire the next generation of Latino professionals. Karla Torosian, founder and CEO of Redbone Recruiting, exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose, authenticity, and cultural pride.
Jenice Contreras is a powerhouse in Latino economic development and a steadfast advocate for inclusive growth across Northeast Ohio. As President and CEO of the Northeast Ohio Hispanic Center for Economic Development, she leads with vision, purpose, and a deep commitment to empowering the Hispanic business community.