Latin Pride
Meet the inspiring individuals recognized as Orgullo Latino.
The Gulf Coast Latin Chamber honors those making a positive impact in the Hispanic community.
Since September 2024, Isai has volunteered his time and talent to support the Gulf Coast Latin Chamber of Commerce in marketing and production.
As a Mechatronics Engineer with international training, he brings precision, creativity, and purpose to every task.
Isai represents the spirit of the new generation: globally minded, service-driven, and committed to building a better future for all.
Thank you, Isai, for leading with action and heart.
Isai Pérez Nava
We honor a woman who uplifts entire communities through the power of education.
Mayu Fielding, originally from Caracas, Venezuela, is our Latino Pride because for over 18 years she has educated players and staff of the Pittsburgh Pirates, while also empowering local residents through her role as Vice President of the Manatee Literacy Council.
Her mission goes beyond language—she helps people live with dignity, independence, and without fear.
Mayu stays true to her roots while building bridges of opportunity. That’s why she is our Latino Pride.
Mayu Fielding
We celebrate Melisha Guillen-Arana, a young leader who inspires us with her academic excellence, commitment to the community, and passion for learning.
With an outstanding GPA, leadership in STEM initiatives, and over 260 hours of volunteer service, Melisha embodies the talent, perseverance, and solidarity that define our Latino community.
From founding and leading the SEHS Red Cross Club to her involvement in brain health programs and immigrant support, her impact goes beyond the classroom, leaving a lasting mark on those around her.
Her determination and values remind us that hard work and service go hand in hand on the road to success.
Congratulations, Melisha! You are a true source of pride for all of us.
Melisha Guillen-Arana
Today, we celebrate Sylma Priegues, a true example of professionalism, dedication, and community spirit.
As the Director of Sales at Buffalo Lodging Associates, Sylma’s expertise in the hospitality and entertainment industry is unmatched.
Her passion for excellence is evident in every event, partnership, and project she leads.
Sylma has been instrumental in strengthening the collaboration between Buffalo Lodging and the Gulf Coast Latin Chamber of Commerce, ensuring our members receive the highest level of service.
Her commitment to going above and beyond, coupled with her warmth and joyful personality, makes her not only a remarkable professional but also an inspiring individual to be around.
Thank you, Sylma, for your unwavering dedication to our community and for setting an example of leadership and service.
You are, without a doubt, our "Orgullo Latino" (Latino Pride)!
Sylma Priegues
Latin Pride 2024
We are thrilled to announce that Sandra Valencia is our December Latino Pride!
With an impressive career as a master communicator and strategist in international relations and foreign trade, Sandra has made a remarkable impact as the Director of Canal G24 and Global Ambassador of Media and Communications for the Gulf Coast Latin Chamber of Commerce.
Her dedication and transformative leadership have earned her the historic honor of being the first recipient of the FOCA 2024 Medal, awarded by Inteligencia EDUCA Internacional and GCLCC.
Sandra’s achievements reflect her unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and global collaboration.
Sandra Valencia
Luisa Fernanda Osorio is an admirable woman and a true example of perseverance, strength, and love.
Her profession as a doctor highlights her humanity and her unwavering commitment to helping others.
Through her music, with heartfelt lyrics and soulful performances, she reveals not only her remarkable talent but also her deep faith and love for the Creator.
Her artistry, crafted with her hands using primarily recycled paper, reflects her dedication to environmental care.
Each of her beautiful, delicate creations is unique—designed specifically for each individual.
Different yet equally stunning, they showcase her creativity, refined taste, and boundless patience, which she pours into every piece.
As a person, her kind, cheerful, and positive attitude inspires trust and admiration.
Luisa has made significant contributions to the Inspire Group, motivating others, sharing the joy of reading, and proving time and again that she is a human being without limits when it comes to serving and contributing to the well-being of others.
Alicia Monterrubio, Inspire Program Chair, describes her perfectly: "Luisa is undoubtedly a woman made for love, friendship, service, devotion, and art. She deserves our deepest recognition."
We couldn’t agree more, and that’s why Luisa Fernanda Osorio is our orgullo latino.
Thank you for inspiring us all.
Luisa Fernanda Osorio Dussan
we honor Olga Cano King, a true embodiment of leadership, service, and community spirit.
As a mother, wife, and successful entrepreneur, Olga leads Image360 in Bradenton, FL, with warmth, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to our community.
She is always ready to support our organization’s events and initiatives, showcasing what it means to be a strong Latina leader.
Her dedication and passion inspire us all, and we are grateful to have her as a shining example in our community.
Thank you, Olga, for your invaluable support and for representing us with such strength and grace.
You are truly our Latino Pride.
Olga Cano King
Irma Cristancho has captivated audiences worldwide with her versatile talent as an actress and producer, bringing the richness of Colombian culture to international stages.
But her impact goes beyond acting—she is also the founder of the International Theater of Atlanta, where she champions Hispanic artists, celebrates Latin heritage, and strengthens our cultural roots.
Her dedication to uplifting and preserving our shared heritage makes her not just a celebrated artist but a true icon of Hispanic pride.
Irma Cristancho
Elsa Rodríguez, a successful Colombian entrepreneur, has over 20 years of experience in the beauty industry.
She is the founder of Elsa Rodríguez Hair Products. Her mission is to offer high-quality hair care products at affordable prices.
In addition, her brand serves as a space for ongoing training for hair professionals and enthusiasts.
Elsa stands out for her commitment to the community, aiming to turn her brand into a model of entrepreneurship and growth, creating opportunities for others.
Elsa Rodríguez
Born to an American father and Colombian mother, she attended Boston University, earning a B.S. in Human Physiology on the PreMedical Track in 2017.
Her medical career aspirations were interrupted by a diagnosis of Acute T-cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia at age 23.
After undergoing treatment, including chemotherapy and a stem cell transplant, she decided to help others by creating the children's book "Bye Bye Bad Blood" with her younger sister and stem cell donor, Sophia Nealon, to explain Leukemia in a light-hearted manner for pediatric patients.
Kassandra Nealon
Dorinda Luzardo is a dedicated educator with over 20 years of experience in Miami-Dade, founder of the Angels Reach Foundation, and tireless advocate for inclusive education for children with special needs and gifted learners.
We celebrate her commitment and exceptional contributions!
Dorinda Luzardo
Daniela Cortés, a prominent presenter on 4Real and owner of Image360, is recognized for her tireless commitment to the Latino community.
Her passion for collaborating and supporting events and causes that benefit her community has made her a symbol of Latino pride.
Through her dedication and leadership, she has inspired others to follow in her footsteps towards a more inclusive and prosperous future.
In April, her contribution and dedication earn her the title of Latino Pride, being a living example of the power and strength of the Latino community.
Daniela Cortés
Ingrid Fiorela Santacruz stands out for her work as a psychologist committed to the welfare and development of young people in her community.
Her approach goes beyond guidance, encompassing motivation towards education and entrepreneurship, with the goal of promoting economic independence.
With plans to expand her impact through the creation of a foundation, Ingrid is a beacon of hope that inspires change and progress.
Her dedication and empathy not only transform lives but also drive a movement of solidarity and selfless service, solidifying her position as an inspiring figure and a true
Ingrid Fiorela Santacruz
We are proud to celebrate Emiliano Sordi as our Orgullo Latino for the month of Febraury.
Emiliano Sordi
Lorenzo, a talented 10-year-old boy born in Bogotá, Colombia, now lives in Sarasota, Florida.
Since moving at the age of three, he has embraced his new environment with enthusiasm.
He is currently in fifth grade at Pine View School, where he shines with his artistic talent.
His passions for acting, dancing, and playing the piano are clear, showing his incredible artistic abilities from an early age.
Lorenzo’s love for the arts makes him a standout student and a rising young artist.
He was selected as the understudy for Howard Blair in Inherit the Wind at the Asolo Repertory Theatre, making him a true Latin pride.
Lorenzo Gonzáles
Latin Pride 2023
This month, we celebrate and express our gratitude to our friend, Sergeant Juan del Valle, and all who have served.
It's a tribute to his dedication, highlighting him as a shining example of “orgullo latino”.
Sargento Juan del Valle
We celebrate #orgullolatino this October with the outstanding Alejandra Jaramillo!
Born in Colombia and now residing in New York, Alejandra is not just a businesswoman but an entrepreneur with a purpose.
As a fashion designer, she has channeled her passion and talent into creating a unique swimwear line, meticulously designed to offer comfort and confidence to brave breast cancer survivors.
Her dedication goes beyond fashion; it's a testament to love, care, and the desire to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.
With her big heart and unwavering commitment, Alejandra Jaramillo is truly a pride for our Latino community.
Thank you, Alejandra, for lighting the way with your effort and love!
Alejandra Jaramillo
We are proud to name Karina Braun as our Orgullo Latino of the month!
Thank you for your dedication and hard work!
Karina Braun
We are pleased to announce that Jesús has won first place with his project "Speak Up", focused on SDG 16 “Peace and Justice.”
Thanks to his dedication and hard work, Jesús has been named the 2023 American Dream Ambassador of the Gulf Coast Latin Chamber of Commerce and Planet Ambassador of the Youth Awards, United Nations 2030 Agenda.
That’s why Jesús is our Latin pride! Let’s celebrate this achievement and continue promoting peace and justice in our community!
Jesús Hernández Pares
Marcela Arenas, a distinguished entrepreneur and author with 30 years in the industry, leads the marketing agency Communicate PRO.
She also founded the Hispanic Foundation Realizada to support Hispanic women entrepreneurs and is the co-host of our successful talk show 4Real.
Marcela is a Latin pride for her dedication to uplifting and empowering the Hispanic community.
Her work in creating tailored marketing strategies, supporting Hispanic businesswomen, and sharing inspiring stories of Hispanic leaders reflects her strong commitment to celebrating and promoting Latino culture.
Marcela Arenas
In this Father’s Month, our Latin pride is Fernando Andres Giron.
Thank you for your dedication and commitment to the #LatinChamber family.
Fernando Andres Giron
Ana Santos Peña is our “Latin pride” because she has dedicated an incredible number of volunteer hours to our Latin Chamber, showing her unwavering commitment and genuine compassion.
Her selflessness and full dedication have made a meaningful impact on our organization, fostering a sense of unity and empowerment within our community.
Ana’s tireless efforts truly embody the spirit of Latin pride, and we are deeply grateful for her invaluable contributions.
Ana Santos Peña
He was born on December 16, 1988, and his hometown is Bucaramanga, Santander, Colombia. He currently lives in Orlando, Florida.
He studied Environmental Engineering at the Unidades Tecnológicas de Santander in Colombia.
He also studied Food Manager Q.C at Prometric in Chicago, Illinois, English at Seminole State College in Orlando, Florida, and Community Health Workers at the Orlando Department of Health.
He has worked as a Quality Control Manager for Factor 75 in Chicago and currently works for the Episcopal churches Christ the King and Jesus of Nazareth.
He was included in a proclamation by the City of Orlando for his work during the COVID-19 pandemic.
He received recognition from the City of Orlando as part of Public Service Recognition during Black History Month, along with acknowledgments from various organizations for his community work.
Fidel Hernandez Landazabal
We are proud to name Angelina Argotty as our Orgullo Latino of the month!
Thank you for your dedication and hard work!
Angelina Argotty
Thank you for being an unconditional support in our events and as a presenter of 4real!
We are proud to have you in our team!
Angélica Duran
For her dedication, passion and support to the community as host of the program the weight of success “el peso del exito”, Fiorella Missenti is as our Orgullo Latino of the month!
Fiorella Missenti
Latin Pride 2022
Jenny Aragón, entrepreneur, business administrator, with more than 12 years of experience in the aesthetic medicine sector, a woman admired by many for her perseverance and discipline to achieve each of the goals in her life.
Former beauty queen, presenter, daughter, sister, mother, friend and her favorite role... tireless worker.
Jenny Aragón
From a young age, she worked to support her family and later studied business administration.
After becoming a widow at 22, she crossed into the U.S. with her two children and nephew, settling in Florida.
In the U.S., Maria worked in various jobs, including grocery stores and agriculture, while volunteering in churches and helping immigrants.
Passionate about justice and culture, she promoted Mexican heritage and fought for immigrant rights.
She helped launch Florida’s first community plaza for adult education and led youth empowerment programs.
Maria is proud of her life’s work and dedication to uplifting others.
María Elena Valdivia Sánchez
Hoower Cajicá, originally from Santander, Colombia, is the eighth of 12 children in a deeply religious family.
He studied philosophy and theology in Bucaramanga and psychology in Rome.
A priest and psychologist, Hoower has dedicated 18 years to ministry and is affectionately known as the “crazy priest” for his joyful and approachable style.
His mission is to spread the message of love and hope, especially through social media, where he shares the Gospel in a relatable way.
Now based in the U.S., Hoower continues to serve Hispanic migrants through his project RENACER, focusing on mental health and faith.
His goal is to offer light, healing, and hope to those rebuilding their lives—believing that with God, anything is possible.
Hoower Cajicá
Erik J. Arroyo is a City Commissioner and former Mayor for the City of Sarasota.
He also practices law at the firm of Band, Gates & Dramis, focusing on business, corporate, and estate planning, focusing on family foundations.
However, he comes from humble beginnings.
Born in the Dominican Republic and raised by a single mother, Erik went to the United States as a teenager and met his wife locally at Riverview High School.
Due to his extensive experience, Erik is a diversely skilled, award-winning executive leader and counsel offering years of experience in strategic planning, policy and budget development, and operational leadership for high profile trusts, corporations, businesses, private foundations, and not-for-profit organizations
Erik J. Arroyo
He was born in Valledupar, Cesar, Colombia. Psychologist by profession, aspiring specialist in sports psychology.
Jesus is a Paralympic athlete and specializes in the hand bike category.
He is currently working as a sport psychologist in the fencing training school of INDER Valledupar.
Jesús is our Orgullo Latino of the month of August.
Jesus Miguel Vega
This month we recognize Gustavo Prada as our Orgullo Latino, for his dedication to the health and well-being of our community.
Gustavo was born in Bogota Colombia. He learned English in an exchange program in Poughkeepsie, NY, and after returning to Colombia he started medical school at Universidad El Bosque in Bogota.
He practiced here for 5 years in primary care and emergency medicine and then made his way to the United States.
In 2008 he arrived in Indianapolis IN where he did an internship at IU Methodist Hospital and a residency at Riggs/Methodist.
Now, Gustavo completes nearly 40 years in Florida and claims to have made the best decision.
Gustavo Prada
We are proud to name Mario Lugo as our Orgullo Latino of the month!
Thank you for your dedication and hard work!
Mario Lugo
We are proud to name Rebeca Dussan as our Orgullo Latino of the month!
Thank you for your dedication and hard work!
Receba Dussan
We are proud to name Ashley José as our Orgullo Latino of the month!
Thank you for your dedication and hard work!
Ashley José
We are proud to name Juliana Chunza as our Orgullo Latino of the month!
Thank you for your dedication and hard work!
Juliana Chunza
We are proud to name Andrés Cordoba as our Orgullo Latino of the month!
Thank you for your dedication and hard work!
Andrés Cordoba
We are proud to name Armando López as our Orgullo Latino of the month!
Thank you for your dedication and hard work!
Armando López
Latin Pride 2021
We are proud to name Guillermo Prada as our Orgullo Latino of the month!
Thank you for your dedication and hard work!
Guillermo Prada
Colombian-American businesswoman, instructor, gastronomic writer, judge of important gastronomic events, creator of cooking segments and world lecturer.
Participant and winner of several Reality Shows such as Fox/BBC's ""Kitchen Nightmares"", FoodNetwork ""Chopped"", ""Cut Throat Kitchen"" and more.
Recognized figure in worldwide television, demonstrating her knowledge in TV channels such as: Telemundo, Fox, Canal Cocina, AMC Network and in the gastronomic tour of the program ""Me voy a comer el Mundo"" for New York and Bogotá.
Awarded for 4 consecutive years as one of the best Chefs of America by the BCA (Best Chef of America).
María Kata Vélez
He was born in Torreón, Mexico, and came to the United States thanks to his parents, seeking a better education.
With their support and a soccer scholarship, he earned a degree in Business Administration.
He is now the General Manager of Poblanos Mexican Grill and Bar, a coach at Chargers Soccer Club, and an active volunteer in the Latino community.
Jorge consistently supports the community and is always willing to help with local soccer events.
He coaches children’s soccer and assists schools in efforts that benefit youth education.
He considers himself a hardworking man who strives to reach his goals and helps others in need of support.
Jorge Rocha
Luis Roberto Clemente, son of baseball legend Roberto Clemente, was born on July 13, 1966.
He is the founder of the Clemente Legacy Program, which connects schools and programs under the Clemente name to inspire students to become goodwill ambassadors, with future plans to launch a scholarship fund.
He is a motivational speaker and actively represents the Clemente family at global tributes.
Luis also serves as CEO and President of multiple organizations preserving his father’s legacy, including Roberto Clemente Sports City, 21 In Right, Inc., and The Roberto Clemente Foundation.
Luis Clemente
Elder began his education at the University of Havana in Cuba, graduating with honors in 1994.
He worked in a lab focused on medicinal plants before moving to Chile in 1997.
There, he taught Pharmacy Technicians and earned his Pharmacist-Chemist degree from the University of Chile in Santiago.
In 2002, he moved to the United States and started over with basic jobs until joining Walgreens as a Pharmacy Technician in 2003.
He soon became a Pharmacy Intern and earned his U.S. pharmacy license in 2006.
He remained with Walgreens for nearly 12 years before leaving to co-found America's Pharmacy with Carla.
His goal in opening America’s Pharmacy is to provide personalized care, with services such as diabetes and hypertension awareness, and ongoing support for chronic conditions.
Elder Soria
In June, the support of all our members, volunteers, collaborators and sponsors has been essential to make possible All together Limitless, an unprecedented event where we have the unconditional support of Saúl Vásquez, creator of DeSoto County Youth Soccer Federation.
Congratulations for becoming our Orgullo Latino of the month!
Saúl Vásquez
We pay tribute to Diana from Aranas Multiservices for being a promoter of entrepreneurship in the area!
That’s why she is our Latin pride of the month.
Diana de Aranas
Logan Ayala, Proudly represented Miguel from the Coco Movie. Born in Sarasota. 6 years old.
Logan Ayala
Elizabeth is a native of Barranquila, Colombia And has Background in Hotel Management.
Fluent in English, Italian and Spanish.
Designations: Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) Resort Second Home Specialist At Home With Diversity.
Elizabeth Anzellini
Born in San Diego Jalisco Mexico, Enrique Merlo is an entrepreneur, owner of El Charro, Mexican Restaurant in Arcadia, Fl, that loves to work hard and provide for those around him.
He is all about family and doing good for the community. His hobbies are cooking, carpentry, & landscaping.
Enrique Merlo
Latin Pride 2020
Juan Pablo Salas, originally from Bogotá, is a seasoned journalist, interviewer, and political analyst with over 20 years of experience.
He currently works with Solmart Media in Sarasota and Bradenton, hosting the programs “Su Negocio” and “Democracia al Día”, and managing local news.
He is an active member of the Gulf Coast Latin Chamber’s Events Committee, serving as presenter and interviewer at various events.
Juan Pablo writes the blog “El Opinón” and previously hosted a radio show of the same name in Miami.
His past media experience includes work with Caracol 1260 AM, La W Radio, GLR Networks (where he produced Minuto 60), Mega TV, and Sony.
He is also a published author, with titles such as "Crónicas del último colombiano" and "Fronteras del deseo", and has contributed to several Colombian storytelling anthologies in the U.S.
Juan Pablo Salas
Alicia Monterrubio Hernández, from Pachuca, Mexico, is a mother of three, former primary school teacher, and business psychologist.
With over 30 years in education, she saw the need for a "School for Parents" to guide families in raising children with love and happiness, not just discipline.
Inspired by positive psychology, she promotes educating through joyful living and is currently developing a project to spread this approach to future generations.
Alicia Monterrubio Hernández
Dr. Héctor Morales is a retired U.S. Army lieutenant colonel, high-performance coach, and sport psychologist with deep roots in competitive sports and military leadership.
Originally from Manatí, Puerto Rico, he served in key military roles across the world and later became a professor and coach at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.
There, he helped win 15 national Judo titles and directed major physical education and self-defense programs.
He holds a Ph.D. in Sport and Exercise Psychology from Florida State University and is a Certified Mental Performance Consultant.
Over the years, he has worked with Olympic athletes, military teams, and youth athletes, helping them build mental strength and achieve top performance.
Today, he serves as the Director of Cultural Initiatives and High-Performance Coach for the Pittsburgh Pirates, continuing his mission to shape character and excellence through sports.
