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.
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.
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
Many years ago, when I first started my business in the defense contracting world, I was young, ambitious, and full of optimism. I had an idea I believed in: helping my shipmates acquire hard-to-find shipboard parts. At just twenty-five years old, I was excited to build something meaningful.
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.
Rob Elias, a proud Tucson native, currently serves as President and CEO of both the Tucson Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Southeast Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. With a deep-rooted commitment to responsible and inclusive community development, Elias has dedicated his leadership to fostering meaningful growth and prosperity for the region’s diverse population.
Rafael Castellanos is a distinguished legal professional and civic leader whose work has helped shape the San Diego region through visionary leadership, community service, and legal excellence.