¡HOLA! Américas Hosts Historic Latina Powerhouse Top 100 Gala Celebrating Chita Rivera and Adrienne Arsht in Miami

Celebrating Latina Excellence: ¡HOLA! Américas Hosts the Inaugural Latina Powerhouse Top 100 Gala

In an enchanting evening filled with star power and cultural pride, ¡HOLA! Américas welcomed over 500 guests to the Latina Powerhouse Top 100 Gala at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts in Miami. A first in its kind, this event aimed to shine a spotlight on the accomplishments and leadership of key Latina figures across the Americas.

The atmosphere was electric, as Broadway legend Chita Rivera and renowned philanthropist Adrienne Arsht were honored for their exceptional contributions in culture and community service. Rivera, who has graced the stage for decades, received the Latina Powerhouse 2025 Honorary Mention, while Arsht was awarded the inaugural Latina de Corazón award.

Patricia Janiot, a distinguished journalist, served as the evening’s emcee, ushering in special guests such as Carmen Sánchez Pérez and Mercedes Sánchez Pérez, vice presidents of ¡HOLA! Media Group, along with Miami-Dade County Mayor, Daniella Levine Cava, and Spain's Consul General in Miami, Belén Alfaro.

During her speech, Mayor Levine Cava celebrated the vital role of Latino leadership in shaping Miami’s cultural landscape, promising that it would create a more inclusive and vibrant future. She declared, “This is your city. This is your home. And it’s an honor to pay tribute to you today.” Her sentiments were echoed by Márquez Acosta, who emphasized Arsht's role as a fierce advocate for cultural advancement in the Latina community.

Arsht’s touching address highlighted her deep bond with Miami's Latino community, recognizing their stories and warmth that have profoundly impacted her life. Though not Latina by birth, she passionately remarked that the extraordinary spirit of the Latino community made her feel at home.

The Consul General also weighed in, underlining the cultural riches shared between Spain and Latin America, reinforcing that the women honored represent the best of this heritage. She thanked them for their leadership which empowers future generations of Latina leaders.

Before the gala, honorees gathered for an intimate dinner that celebrated community spirit, togetherness, and excellence. Attendees included operatic talent like Ailyn Pérez, currently performing in Madama Butterfly at the Metropolitan Opera, who helped set an atmosphere filled with unity and admiration that night.

As guests made their way down the red carpet, Patricia Zavala welcomed them with her signature charm. The celebrations continued with musical performances at Thompson Plaza, led by emcees Nadia Ferreira and Alejandro Nones, dedicated to Rivera's illustrious career.

The festivities kicked off with a captivating DJ set from Nina Sky, transforming the venue into a vibrant homage to Latin rhythms.

A surprise serenade tribute from the Florida Grand Opera tenor Ray González to the honorees added a powerful emotional touch to the occasion, with renditions of “Granada” and “Perfidia.” The performance was impactful, capturing the heart and gratitude of all present.

The evening radiated the glamor reminiscent of 1950s Broadway, immersing guests in a world of timeless art and elegance. The gala culminated in a musical tribute to Chita Rivera, featuring a lineup of talented performers including Agustín Bernasconi, Mimy Succar, and Tony Succar — all accompanied by a 21-piece jazz orchestra under the direction of the brilliant Colleen Clark.

Márquez Acosta reiterated the importance of the Latina Powerhouse Top 100 initiative, underscoring that it acknowledges not just individual accomplishments but the collective brilliance of a community whose creativity and leadership resonate beyond borders. Anticipation builds as ¡HOLA! Américas begins plans for the next Latina Powerhouse Top 100 gala, reaffirming its commitment to celebrating Latina empowerment and cultural innovation.

Thanks to sponsors including South Dade Kia, Disney, and other esteemed organizations, this extraordinary event was a resounding success, marking its place in the annual cultural calendar. As the night came to a close, the jubilant spirit of unity and empowerment lingered in the air, promising a brighter future for Latina leaders and their communities.