#United States #Rosemont #Fig Factor Media #Latinx Community #Wintrust Community Banks

Annual Latinx Community Awards

The fourth annual Latinx Community Awards took place on September 29th in Rosemont, Illinois, hosted by Wintrust Community Banks and Fig Factor Media. The event honored the significant contributions of 42 Hispanic leaders from the Chicagoland area, recognizing their impact on the local community during the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month.

Celebrating Achievements

This celebration is aimed at acknowledging individuals who live or work in the suburban service areas of Wintrust Community Banks, which include notable locations like Barrington, Hinsdale, Wheaton, Crystal Lake, and Schaumburg. The honorees ranged from educators and health professionals to entrepreneurs and artists, showcasing the diverse contributions of individuals in the Latinx community.

Among the esteemed awardees was Joseph "Fugie" Almanza, a prominent photographer and author, who established the Joseph Jr. Scholarship Foundation in memory of his late son. The foundation provides scholarships to Latino students through proceeds from Almanza's work, illustrating the profound personal commitment he has to education and his community.

Event Highlights

Emmy Award-winning journalist Tsi-tsi-ki Félix served as the evening's host, guiding attendees through a night filled with gratitude and inspiration. Félix, known for her work on various national platforms, engaged the audience and emphasized the importance of sharing stories of perseverance and success within the Latinx community.

Jacqueline S. Ruiz, CEO of Fig Factor Media, expressed her joy at witnessing a full house, stating, "It is truly amazing to see all of you here and to see that more and more community leaders are being recognized." Ruiz articulated a heartfelt message of unity, urging those present to inspire future generations despite ongoing societal challenges.

Gina Stuart, Senior Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Wintrust Financial, reiterated the institution's commitment to social responsibility, asserting that events like these are essential in honoring those who impact their communities positively. Stuart highlighted how their culture at Wintrust prioritizes inclusion and fairness, creating an environment where community leaders can shine.

The Power of Community

The event also provided a platform for honorees to share their stories and experiences. Many expressed gratitude for the recognition, reflecting on their journeys and expressing their hopes for the future. The emotional speeches showcased the interconnectedness of their work in uplifting the community and fostering change.

The success of the Latinx Community Awards is a testament to the dedication of the organizing bodies, Wintrust and Fig Factor Media, who understand the importance of celebrating diversity and the contributions of Latinx individuals. By shining a spotlight on these leaders, they not only recognize past achievements but also pave the way for future advancements within the community.

In addition to celebrating individuals, the event featured numerous sponsors and community involvement, highlighting the collaborative spirit that exists among local institutions committed to progress. Sponsors included various banks within the Wintrust family, reinforcing the supportive network available to help nurture community leadership.

In conclusion, the fourth annual Latinx Community Awards was a memorable event that celebrated the achievements of outstanding individuals while reinforcing the significance of community and shared aspirations. By honoring these leaders, it inspires others to continue working towards success and making a difference in their society.