Every year, Hispanic Media, the parent company of El Sol Latino Newspaper, eagerly awaits Hispanic Heritage Month as the ideal time to hold the Hispanic Heritage Month Gala—an event that has become a Philadelphia tradition and celebrates the hard work of individuals for and within the Latino community.
The gala is not only an occasion to honor the richness and diversity of Hispanic roots but also a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for identity, culture, and dignity within a community that, far from its homelands, has forged a path of resilience and success.
Across the United States, Latinos number over 60 million, representing 18.9% of the total population, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The Latino community is a fundamental part of American identity. Latino athletes, entrepreneurs, scientists, and public officials have made significant cultural contributions. That is why it is so important to highlight those who fight for their rights, stand out within a vast population, and leave an invaluable legacy for future generations.
This year, the Hispanic Heritage Month Gala will take place on Saturday, October 11, at Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia, located at 900 Packer Avenue, culminating in a celebration of roots and culture.
Inspirational Figures in the Latino Community
Each year, the list of honorees allows the public to meet more individuals working to uplift their communities across various fields. Before presenting the coveted awards of this edition, it is important to highlight the legacy of past honorees.
Their names and stories form the foundation of this celebration—a living testament that passion, dedication, and a strong connection to one’s roots are transformative forces in a country nourished by diversity.
At a time when conversations about immigration and cultural identity are more relevant than ever, the Hispanic Heritage Month Gala stands as a beacon of inspiration and recognition for the entire community. Each honoree reflects a united community that continually strives to move forward despite complexities. This year will be no exception, and Hispanic Media once again commits to highlighting the positive, bearing witness to what the word “collective” truly means. Below are some of the distinguished individuals recognized in previous editions.
Juan López
Last year, Juan López was honored at the gala. A prominent figure in the financial world, he serves as Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, and Treasurer of Independence Health Group. Under his leadership, all financial operations of Independence Blue Cross and its subsidiaries are coordinated to ensure stability and sustained growth.
López is an active board member of several organizations, including Evio, an independent pharmaceutical solutions startup, and Providence Center, which serves the Latino community in North Philadelphia.
Yocasta Lora
2024 also honored Yocasta Lora, a charismatic leader deeply committed to her community and a strong advocate for the rights and well-being of older adults.
She serves as Deputy State Director of Advocacy and Community Engagement at AARP Pennsylvania, leading national and state initiatives for residents aged 50 and over and their families, with the goal of improving the quality of life for millions of Americans.
Orfelina Feliz Payne
In 2023, Orfelina Feliz Payne was recognized for her work as a passionate leader and Executive Director of Puentes de Salud, a nonprofit supporting Spanish-speaking immigrants in Philadelphia. She was also the first senior Latina director at the city’s Department of Mental Health and Intellectual Disabilities.
Orfelina, an Afro-Latina with an unwavering commitment to social justice, brings a unique perspective to her work, guided by her personal experiences and values.
Carlos Giraldo
Among the 2023 honorees was Carlos Giraldo, President and Real Estate Broker at Giraldo Real Estate Group. This Colombian entrepreneur has built an impressive career in Philadelphia’s metropolitan real estate market, consistently ranking among the top 5% of agents.
Gisele Barreto Fetterman
The 2023 gala also recognized Gisele Barreto Fetterman, a prominent figure in Pennsylvania and advocate for equity. As a former Second Lady of the state, her community impact is undeniable.
Fetterman is the visionary behind Freestore 15104, an organization dedicated to redistributing surplus goods and donations to fight food and clothing insecurity. Her innovative model inspired the creation of 13 additional locations and the founding of 412 Food Rescue, a successful community initiative that has rescued millions of pounds of food, combating hunger and waste.
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