In order to raise funds for economic support programs and to celebrate the successful career of leading Latino business and professionals in the region, The Greater Philadelphia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce hosts the colorful “Baile de la Alegría” that will take place on the 22nd of February at “The Lucy” located between Broad and Locust streets.
The Greater Philadelphia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (GPHCC), a non-profit organization aimed at boosting Latino commercial activity, hopes through this event to raise funds to support core programs of the Chamber in order to benefit Latin companies in the region. The gala will include the “Excelencia Hispanic Business Awards” 29th edition as a way to celebrate and highlight the success of the most important Latino entrepreneurs in the city.
This year the “Excelencia” awards for the different categories go to:
Keystone Award: This award is addressed to a person who has contributed in an extraordinary way to the Hispanic community during their professional career. This year’s honoree is Hon. Nelson Diaz, the first Latino to be admitted to the Pennsylvania Bar Association who later became the first Latino judge in the state. In the course of his career, he has helped to organize several institutions with the purpose of promoting the development of his community.
Hispanic Company of the Year Award: Awarded to the Hispanic company that has distinguished itself from the competition for its general excellence and high quality standards. This year’s recipient is Marquis & Co., founded by Nicole Marquis. It is a group of vegan restaurants, including the popular Hip City Veg, conceived with the aim of showing that vegan food can be an excellent culinary option.
Hispanic Professional of the Year Award: This award is given to outstanding professionals of the Latino community, and in this edition is addressed to Dr. Damian Fernandez, Chancellor of Penn State, Abington, who is among the 4% of Latinos who lead colleges and universities in the United States.
This event is part of the philosophy of the GPHCC, which aspires to be recognized as the main support organization for Hispanic companies and as the greatest force for positive change in the Latino business community. Its mission is to develop and promote Hispanic businesses in the Philadelphia region, while fostering the progress and economic growth of these important citizens. “We are committed to removing barriers and management solutions that will close the gaps between businesses and Latino professionals,” said Jennifer Rodriguez, president and CEO of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Greater Philadelphia.”Alegría Ball is our most important platform to engage and thank our network of supporters” Rodríguez concluded.
To support the Latino community through the GPHCC or to obtain more information about the event, you can call (215) 845-5456 or send an email to jsuarez@philahispanicchamber.org
By: José Espinoza
