Guillermo del Toro, born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, is much more than a film director: he’s a storyteller, a craftsman of fantastical worlds, and a true lover of monsters. From an early age, del Toro felt a fascination for creatures and dark tales, something he transformed into one of the most imaginative and beloved filmographies in Hollywood.
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.
Demián Bichir was born on August 1, 1963, in Torreón, Coahuila, Mexico, but grew up in the vibrant cultural heart of Mexico City, in a family where acting ran deep in the blood. His father, Alejandro Bichir, his mother, Maricruz Nájera, and his brothers, Odiseo and Bruno, are all actors. So it’s no surprise that Demián stepped onto a stage almost before he stepped onto a soccer field.
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.
A proud son of the border region, the Honorable Luis R. Vargas was born in San Diego County in 1956 and spent his early years in Tijuana, Baja California. By 1960, his family had made South Bay their permanent home—a community that would shape his values and launch a lifelong commitment to justice and public service.
Carlos Medina is a business leader committed to the economic development of the Hispanic community. Born and educated in New Jersey, Medina is president of Robinson Aerial, Inc. a firm specializing in engineering and mapping.
President & Founder of the South Carolina Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (SCHCC), Greenville, SC
Andre Cepeda, Founder and CEO of Lotus Connect LLC, is on a mission to change the way large institutions and government agencies manage procurement. With over 15 years of experience in supply chain management, institutional sales, and high-level negotiations, Cepeda brings a rare combination of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and lived experience to the table—one that’s rooted in both innovation and impact.