Honoring the Impact of Hispanic Entrepreneurs at Prospera's Annual Success Stories Event

On November 22, 2024, the Prospera organization celebrated the achievements of the Hispanic entrepreneurial community during its signature annual event held at the historic Miracle Theatre in Coral Gables. Sponsored by Florida Power & Light Company, the event was themed "Dream.Build.Prosper," and it brought together key stakeholders to raise vital funds for Prospera's mission while honoring the local small business owners who have benefited from its support.

The showcase featured inspiring stories from successful entrepreneurs such as Isabel Hernandez and Carlos Vasquez, co-owners of Publigraphic, Gloria Petri and Joanna Tourgeman of Gloria Couture, Celina Rivas and Guimar Parra from Punto Gourmet, and Luis Cordero and Wilson Piñeros of Air Quality Aviation. These individuals exemplified the event's theme through their journeys of dreaming big, building successful businesses, and ultimately prospering in their respective industries.

"Through our collaboration with Prospera, we are empowering local entrepreneurs and supporting the Hispanic business community," remarked Armando Fernandez, Director of External Affairs for Miami-Dade County at Florida Power & Light. He emphasized that Prospera plays a crucial role in fostering the growth of thriving businesses that strengthen the economy and enhance the overall quality of life for residents in the area.

Myrna Sonora, Vice President of Prospera South Florida, led the program that highlighted the transformative impact of the organization's services on local entrepreneurship. The event provided a platform for funders, volunteers, partners, and community leaders to connect, collaborate, and share insights regarding the importance of supporting small businesses.

The program included enriching discussions led by Telemundo 51 anchor Gloria Ordaz, focusing on local small business procurement and initiatives like the Miami Open for Business. Key local leaders shared their perspectives on creating a supportive ecosystem for small business growth.

"In our diverse and complex ecosystem, every participant has a unique role, united by our shared purpose of fostering small business growth for economic benefits and a superior quality of life for all in South Florida," stated Sonora.

Prospera's event was made possible through the support of several sponsors, including Florida Power & Light, ATT, Banesco, Bank of America, Capital One, and Wells Fargo, among others. The organization's dedication to empowering Hispanic entrepreneurs dates back to 1991, offering bilingual resources to assist those looking to launch, maintain, or expand their businesses.

Over the last five years, Prospera has facilitated over $70 million in loans for small business clients, trained more than 17,300 entrepreneurs, and has been instrumental in creating or retaining over 16,000 jobs within the community. Currently, Prospera operates in Florida, North Carolina, and Georgia.

For further details about Prospera and its mission, visit www.prosperausa.org. The event serves as a reminder of the valuable contributions of Hispanic entrepreneurs to economic development while showcasing the efforts made to uplift and support these vital members of the business community.