The 4th annual LATINAFest® Co-Founded by Bel Hernandez and Naibe Reynoso Brought together actors, influencers, executives and entrepreneurs putting Latinas front and center!
The 4th annual LATINAFest®: Mind, Body & Soul united 2000 plus Latinas on October 22nd at LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes in the heart of Los Angeles, California for a celebration of the Latina entrepreneurial spirit! The festival, presented by Chase for Business, took place during National Women’s Business Week and celebrated Latina entrepreneurs, from new startups to those who have scaled their business and have created a pathway for Latinas.
Every year LATINAFest invites speakers and influentials to present at the largest outdoor festival that spotlights the entrepreneurial spirit on the West Coast, offering a unique experience for all. This year over 100 vendors, the focus of LATINAFest, came with an array of products and services to sell. Spirits were high as everyone was happy to enjoy the all day festival after Covid restrictions were lifted. The festival welcomed an influx of entrepreneurs, influencers, actors, executives, kids, and their families, as the word continues to spread that this is an event where all Latinas are celebrated.
The Festival kicked-off with the Goddess Procession where LATINAFest® co-founders, Bel Hernandez and Naibe Reynoso made their grand entrance followed by a tribe of Goddesses that proudly paraded behind them, stepping into their power.
Among the activities to enjoy were actress Julie Carmen who led a yoga slow flow session to start off the day; Sephora’s “We Belong To Something Beautiful” beauty activation and the Kids Zone with the Castillo Family Learning guiding the kids through many activities. Perrier created an oasis of refreshments; The Tree Yoga Cooperative and Alegria Magazine were also powering the Kid’s activities and the book readings. The Cocktail Garden sponsored by Golden Road Brewery and the 360 photo booth sponsored by Square were also among the favorites.
Keeping the vibe going all day long were the ever amazing musical powerhouses DJ’s Cece Valencia of 93.5 Kday’s; Power 106’s Bryana and Letty; and Caro Marquez of Cali 93.9. Lizza Monet Morales was this year’s co-host and co-host of TheTRENDTalk show.
LATINAFest is a community-based organization whose mission is to celebrate and promote unity, diversity, and economic inclusion, and to amplify the Latina voice while championing Latina entrepreneurs, activists, and artists who are committed to uplifting and empowering the Latina community. There is always something for everyone which is the mission of LATINAFest® to bring together women of all ages, and from all walks of life.
Attendees got to see a live taping of two episodes of TheTRENDTalk Show with guests that included Jenny Aragon, Vice President and Senior Business Consultant for Chase’s mentorship program, alongside her mentee, Fanny Grande, CEO of Avenida Entertainment, Johana Hernandez, Fashion Designer and owner of Glaudi Haute Couture, and Lisa de Bono, McDonald’s Franchisee.
The beauty of Latinas and their culture was celebrated in the Goddess Fashion Show curated by Diana Diaz, CEO of the Goddess Mercado, a monthly pop up event. It featured designs and accessories from several LATINAFest® vendors. The models were selected from among friends and family with some making their modeling debut. It was an empowering display of Latina beauty.
The highlight of the day was when Vaughn Lucas, Head of the Chase mentorship program, presented the winner of the LATINAFest® Hero Women Rising grant to Rosalva Aguilar of Tamalería Marías, who tearfully thanked Chase for Business for the grant and dedicated the win to her parents who started the business she is now leading.
Other Chase for Business executives in attendance were Maria Garcia, Regional Managing Director for the North Los Angeles Region, who delivered the keynote address. As well as Lina Munoz, Executive Director for the LA Central Market who closed off the festival with a heartfelt farewell.
L.A. County Supervisor Hilda Solis, whose support of entrepreneurs in 2020 led to the motion to establish the ELA Entrepreneur Center, understands the importance of honoring business women and she presented commendations to all of LATINAFest’s vending at the festival.
In addition to LATINAFest’s presenting sponsor, Chase for Business, the 4th annual LATINAFest® also counted with the support from: Sephora, Perrier, McDonald’s of Southern California, Verizon Wireless, Square, Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis, 1st District, Molina HealthCare, ACTS LLP, Mezcal Mal Bien, Minute Maid Aguas Frescas, Tequila Casa del Sol, Golden Road Brewing, Mujeres Brew House, Red Skirt Wines, KDAY 93.5 FM, KWHY-22, and Gouda Charcuterie Boards.
The 5th annual LATINAFest® returns for International Women’s Month on March 18, 2023. For more information about LATINAFest® and 2023 event updates, please visit: www.latinafest.net. For Sponsorship information email latinafestevents@gmail.com
