October 18th’s NexGen Latinos’ soft launch, was an overwhelming success with over 300 business leaders and like-minded extraordinaires who joined together in a luxe evening of networking and socializing. Lead by the Latino Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce (LALCC) and co-hosted by an L.A. STYLE Magazine’s Business Networking Socials (BNS), this powerful group of individuals came with a thirst and curiosity to develop the Next Generation of Latinos: NexGen Latinos. In a remarkable sign of their future mark and philanthropic purpose, the group is already beginning to influence the world.
Ana Guerrero, Chief of Staff at the Los Angeles Mayor’s office, welcomed the new initiative by presenting a certificate to NextGen Latinos and delivered brief remarks regarding the organization’s efforts. She also shared that the Mayor’s office is committed to supporting NextGen Latinos. Guerrero’s inspiring narrative added to the caliber of attendees, as she is the embodiment of determination and the realization of a hard-earned dreamed; she is an accomplished first-generation Latina of Mexican descent.
Moises Cisneros, LALCC Executive Director, created this new concept of building stronger relationships to create a bridge between the established Latino Los Angeles business professionals and the next generation of Latino leaders. He delivered a heartfelt message filled with the energetic anticipation of the efforts that will arise from the development of NextGen Latinos. He emphasized the power in cross-pollinating and working together as a community. In closing, Cisneros introduced L.A. STYLE Magazine’s publisher Tricia Love Grunauer, who is both a millennial and Latina, to share remarks on the publications’ support of the initiative.
As a strategically programmed networking event, attendees were led by Eduardo “Edu” Santana, Executive Director of Pershing Square Renew, Inc. in a motivational exercise the first hour of the event. Participants were highly engaged in conversations around celebrating and evoking the strength and leadership of Latino industry trailblazers. Members of the groups shared their visions of success in the future, current projects they are passionate about and actively a part of, and how they can support each other’s goals. The night also launched NextGen Latinos Facebook Group page, to serve as a cutting-edge tool for participants and new members to stay connected to the latest events and developments in this new NextGen Latinos community.
Those that attended the event praised this new avenue of opportunity for young Latino business professionals and entrepreneurs. The event was also the first night that the LALLCC NextGen Latinos Steering Committee convened. Here is what they had to say about the event and this new initiative summed up in one word:
“Empowering” – Maribel, Event Coordinator LALCC
“Validating” – Carman Palafox Partner, Make In LA
“New” – Edu Executive Director, Pershing Square New
“Legacy” – Edgar Mejia, Founder, Conexion
“Connected” – Jennifer Navarro, Univision
With premiere networking, top-notch entertainment, complimentary food + beverages, leadership exercises and an enthusiastic crowd, it was a great time! At the close of the night, a total of $500 was raised in pledges by generous donors who committed to $20 donations to impact the lives of those in need. Every dollar from the fundraiser will sponsor victims that were directly affected by the natural disasters in Puerto Rico and Mexico. To stay tuned to other programs in efforts to rebuild Puerto Rico and Mexico go here: www.voicesforpuertorico.com and www.donate.omaze.com/mexico.
Special thank you to our sponsors:
Platinum Sponsor: TELACU
Gold Sponsor: Merrill Lynch Bank of America
Silver Sponsors: New American Funding
& CDC Small Business Finance
Join the Los Angeles Latino Chamber of Commerce for new opportunities to get involved and make difference.
