Despite the rain, the Marathon and street closures, Latinas came together to support the over 100 small businesses who participated in this year’s event.  

In addition to Dolores Huerta, other powerful Latinas at the festival included L.A. County Supervisor, Hilda Solis, Silvana Montenegro, Global Head of Advancing Hispanics & Latinos at JP Morgan Chase, entrepreneur Sonia Smith Kang, of Mixed Up Clothing, Leticia Buckley, Executive Director of La Plaza de Cultura Y Artes,  Maria Garcia, Chase Regional Director of Banking for the North Los Angeles Region, Flor Martinez, Activist and CEO of Celebration Nation.

LATINAFest® once again partnered with Chase to present the Hero Women Rising Grant. Lina Muñoz, Los Angeles Central Market Manager for Business Banking, presented the $5,000 check to this year’s grant recipient Maggie Solozano Muneton of Semillitas Learning Community from Long Beach.

Diana Diaz, CEO of the monthly pop-up event titled the Goddess Mercado, displayed a variety of apparel designs during the Super Latina Fashion Show which was cheered on by attendees. A highlight of LATINAFest® was a conversation on Latina empowerment that was held between Telemundo 52 Acceso Total Host Elva Saray, civil rights pioneer Dolores Huerta and farmworker activist Flor Martinez. 

Other highlights included a “We Can Be Anything” Barbie photo booth and Barbie doll giveaway and The Tree Yoga Cooperative, morning yoga session sponsored by AARP. 

LATINAFest® is grateful to all sponsors for their commitment to championing Latina entrepreneurs and the community, beginning with Chase, title sponsor for the third consecutive year, Kids Zone Sponsor Barbie, the office of L.A. County Supervisor Hilda Solis; Telemundo 52;  Kia, Dream Team Hierarchy, AARP, Estrella Jalisco, and Hispanic Coalition of Small Businesses, Red Bull, MVA Academy, The Thirsty Horse, BoHo Paradise Events, Mexican American Vintners Association and Gouda Charcuterie Boards.

LATINAFest® Community Partners: Tree Yoga Cooperative, School on Wheels, Celebration Nation, KLVE Morning show host Fernanda Kelly, Tamarindo podcast host Brenda Gonzalez, LATV’s PINKafe host Carolina Trejos, producer Darlene Rodriguez; And LATINAFest® Ambassadors: Actress Julie Carmen, entrepreneurs Patricia Perez of VPE and Oralia Michel of Omagen PR.

The 6th annual LATINAFest date is set for National History Month 2024. For more information about LATINAFest® and 2024 event updates email latinafestevents@gmail.com or visit: www.latinafest.net

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TheTRENDTalk, is created and executive produced by Bel Hernandez.  Hernandez  has since been at the forefront in creating a platform to amplify the Latina voice beginning in 2009 with the first talk show she produced, Let’s Talk!, giving Latinas a voice at the talk show table.  

Since the premiere of TheTRENDTalk in 2017, the show has been focused on highlighting the accomplishments of the Latino community, from civic leaders, entrepreneurs, inventors, patrons of the arts and Hollywood celebrities.  TheTRENDTalk celebrates the world as seen through a Latina lens.

“I am so thrilled that Lizza Monet Morales will be joining us as a co-host and executive producer this season.  Her work speaks for itself.  From being invited by the Obamas to the White House; to working with IMG in the fashion world; hosting and producing live and streaming shows; to advocating for farmworkers and fallen soldier Vanessa Guillen, Lizza brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to TheTRENDTalk,” Hernandez enthused.  “Already her ideas are extending our 6th season to more exciting content and we can’t wait for our audience to see it.”

As an actor, Lizza was most recently seen as a lead in the award-winning social impact film Intolerance No More written and directed by Emmy award winner Sergio Guerrero. Some of her other credits include, David Mamet’s Phil Spector biopic for HBO starring Al Pacino and Helen Mirren and a series regular on VH1’s highest rated show New York Goes To Hollywood.

Lizza who is known as the “TV host seeing the world through love filled eyes” has been on-air talent for Access Hollywood, Telemundo, EXTRA, Univision, Celebrity Justice, The Insider and The TV-Guide Channel amongst others and has reported for US Weekly and People Magazine.  And now we can add TheTRENDTalk to her long line of credits.

“It’s just an honor and joy to be able to work side by side with someone who I’ve considered not only a friend but a mentor over the years,” Morales said. “I’m excited to join the TRENDTAlk family and bring everybody behind the scenes for a pretty exciting season that we have put together that not only uplifts and celebrates Latinx voices but inspires all to really lean in and be there for the community. 

TheTRENDTalk, which is produced by Latin Heat Media, officially launched their 6th season on METV LA, and is also streaming on YouTube, IGTV and Facebookwatch.  For commercial time inquiries: ttrendtalk@gmail.com.

TheTRENDTalk show is produced by Latin Heat Media a multi-media company that also owns latinheat.com,  and produces the largest outdoor festival that celebrates Latinas, LATINAFest where TheTRENDTalk also tapes.  LATINAFest  takes place during Women’s History Month next year on March 19,2023.

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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

The post LATINAFest Hero Women Rising $5K Grant Awarded to Rosalva Aguilar By Chase For Business first appeared on .

Kim Guerra, a queer woman of color, a butterfly woman, writer, advocate, and entrepreneur will lead the Goddess Procession at the opening of the 4th Annual LATINAFest: Mind, Body & Soul on October 22, 2022 at 11 AM as National Women’s Business Week kicks off.

LATINAFest was founded by two Latina entrepreneurs, Bel Hernandez, CEO of Latin Heat Media, and Naibe Reynoso, Founder of Con Todo Press, whose vision for this outdoor event was to celebrate all things Latina and their entrepreneurial spirit, by promoting diversity, community and economic inclusion while amplifying the Latina voice.

“Latina entrepreneurs are at the heart of LATINAFest because we are the future.  We represent ‘18% of all women-owned businesses in the country,’ according to The State of Women Owned Business report.” said Bel Hernandez, co-founder LATINAFest. 

This year LATINAFest and Chase for Business will once again partner to give the 2nd annual LATINAFest HERO WOMAN RISING ENTREPRENEUR GRANT to a Latina business owner who has shown growth, leadership, and a strong mission to grow their business. The $5K grant will be awarded at LATINAFest. Applications are currently open at: https://tinyurl.com/2s43ekhc 

“This year’s LATINAFest theme is, Somos Magia, We Are Magic, and what that means to us is that we can do anything we set our minds to. We are powerful, resourceful, and creative,” said Naibe Reynoso, LATINAFest co-founder. “In fact Latinas are almost 2 times more likely to own or plan to open their own business according to a survey done in partnership with Hispanics Organized for Political Equality (HOPE) and the Latino Victory Foundation.”

The 4th Annual LATINAFest all-day celebration will feature Latina entrepreneurs, over 100 vendors activists and artists including writer/advocate/entrepreneur, Kim Guerra; KDAY Morning Show on-air personality, Cece Valencia; Radio Calli’s A live taping of TheTRENDTalk Show with  Fanny Grande, Co-Founder/CEO Avenida Productions and McDonald’s franchisee, Lori de Bono. 

LATINAFest will also feature a line-up of amazing entertainment and activities including:

• Goddess Procession and Spoken Word Opening with Influencer Kim Guerra
• “We Belong To Something Beautiful” Activation presented by Sephora
• Kids Yoga is provided by the Latina and Black-owned Tree Yoga Cooperative
• Morning Slow Flow Yoga for adults with actress Julie Carmen
• The Goddess Fashion Show Curated by Diana Diaz of the Goddess Mercado
• Women Empowerment Panel: Mujeres, Magicas Y Jefas, a panel of entrepreneurs and leaders which will be taped before a live audience
• Book Readings from Latina/o authors who are writing our stories featuring: #1 best-selling author, Annette Chavez Mejia reading from Big Chicas Don’t Cry; Producer Dan Guerrero reads from his legendary father, Lalo Guerrro’s book, My Life & Music; and Actor Enrique Castillo reading his In the Dead of Summer novel.
• Over 100 small businesses vending in our Beauty, Kids, Wellness, Food, Financial, and Mindfulness Zones

LATINAFest is partnered with presenting sponsor Chase for Business, which is committed to supporting Latina entrepreneurs and the Latina community as a whole. This year Sephora joins the LATINAFest mission as well as, L.A. County Supervisor Hilda Solis, Molina HealthCare, McDonald’s of Southern California, Verizon Wireless, Mujeres Brew House, Red Skirt Wines, and Golden Road Brewery. And we welcome LATINAFest Kid Zone partners, Tree Yoga Cooperative, the first Latino &  Black owned yoga studio in So. Los Angeles and Headstart.

Tickets: $10 Adults (12+); Children under 12 yrs are free

To purchase tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/313798278097

To view 2021 Video Recap: https://youtu.be/quupmcY1csE
To learn more about LATINAFest:www.latinafest.net

The post Poet/Entrepreneur Kim Guerra Leads Goddess Procession at 4th Annual LATINAFest Oct. 22 first appeared on .

By Bel Hernandez 

The biggest winner at the 2022 Academy Awards was inclusion.

Setting aside “The Slap” that was seen around the world, it was a historic evening for Latinos and other disenfranchised groups, whose presence was felt from the red carpet arrivals to the last Oscar given to the Best Picture winner Coda, whose cast included two deaf actors and a Latino who played a doctor.

All around this year’s Oscars looked as diverse as none other in past history. It was a beautiful thing to see the whole spectrum of nationalities and races — on the red carpet, on the nominee list, in the performances, and ultimately on the Oscar winners list.

During the pre-show to the Oscars Global Indigene, Bird Runningwater set the tone for the evening by address the global audience on the red carpet:

Movie lovers come together for this celebration on the ancestral lands of the Tongva people. The Academy pays respect to the Tongva people as well as the Tataviam and the Chumash people, the original caretakers of the water and land where many of us in the film community live and work. As we honor this year’s best stories and films, let’s also celebrate the original storytellers, the indegeons peoples of this region.”

Amy Schumer, Wanda Sykes and Regina Hall the hosts for the evening, kicked off the 94th Academy Awards ceremony as the first time three women hosted the star-studded event. Except except for the bit about Covid, they were funny and on point.

Serna and Venus Williams made the introduction to “Queen Bey” Beyonce as she kicked off the awards with a showstopping performance that took place the roof of a structure in the City of Compton transformed into a luscious lime green fantasy oasis housing an orchestra, dancers and Beyonce singing “Be Alive”, the nominated song from the movie King Richard. 

Then the Oscars were in full swing. Up first was the Best Supporting Actress category, which as pundits, critics and filmgoers predicted, went to first-time Oscar nominee Ariana DeBose for her performance as Anita in West Side Story.  With this much-anticipated win Debose made history for winning the Oscar in the same category, and role of Anita, that Rita Moreno, who was in the audience to cheer her on, won 50 years ago.

On accepting her Oscar DeBose said:

“Now you see why Anita says ‘I want to be in America’ because even in this weary world that we live in, dreams do come true…[looking at Rita Moreno] I am so grateful your Anita paved the way for tons of Anitas like me…Lastly, imagine this little girl in the back seat of a white Ford Focus. Look into her eyes and you see a queer, openly-queer woman of color. An afro-Latina who found her strength in life through art and that’s what I believe we’re here to celebrate.”

The sentimental win the Latino community was rooting for, became a reality and now it was on with the show to see what was ahead.

AN OSCAR 1st:

Ariana DeBose became the first Queer-AfroLatina to win an Oscar in the acting category.

Director Alberto Mielgo and Producer Leo Sanchez took home the Best Animated Short Film Oscar for The Windshield Wiper.  Director Hugo Covarrubias was also a nominee for Bestias, The other nominees included directors Dan Ojari and Michael Please for Robin Robin; Joanna Quinn and for Affairs of the Art; and director Anton Dyakov for Box Ballet.

In the Live Action Short Film Category, writer/director Kristen Davila was the indie filmmaker the Latino/a community was rooting for. And the Oscar went to The Long Goodbye directed by Aneil Karia, from a script by Karia and Riz Ahmen.

The Best Animated Feature film Oscar went to Encanto and with that Producer Yvett Merino accepted her very first Oscar, along with the other producers Jared Bush, Clark Spencer, and Byron Howard responsible for this amazing film that has touched hearts around the world, introducing the Madrigal family and their magical powers.

First time nominee, and Encanto composer Germaine Franco was nominated for Best Original Score and althought she lost out to Hans Zimmer who took home his second Oscar for Dune, (his first  was for The Lion King in 1994), she is forever more an Oscar nominee, which in itself is quite extraordinary.  

Also “winning” were the musical performances by Colombian singer Sebastian Yatra who sang “Dos Oruguitas” (Two Caterpillars), the song written by Lin Manuel Miranda and nominated for best song. The Oscar went to No Time to Die from the film by the same name, which was performed by Billie Eillish and her brother Finneas.

The biggest number of the evening was the spectacular musical performance of Encanto’s runaway hit song “We Don’t Talk about Bruno”. It was introduced by John Leguizamo who was the voice of Bruno.

The performance immediately lit up the room as dozens of dancers and original film cast members Adassa, Stephanie Beatriz, Mauro Castillo, Carolina Gaitan and Diane Guerrero, all dressed in a flurry of brightness took the stage. Leading the vocals were internationally known and lauded singers Luis Fonsi and Becky G who were joined by Megan Thee Stallion who added the hip hop flavor to the performance. And just like that audiences across the world witnessed the first-ever live on-stage performance of “We Don’t Talk About Bruno”.  

The multi-talent and one of Hollywood’s favorite directors Guillermo del Toro’s film Nightmare Alley was up for what was his sixth Oscar nomination. He is a two-time winning Oscar winner, both Oscars for The Shape of Water (2018) for which he took home the Best Picture and Best Directing prize. This year he lost out to CODA, a favorite to win and that did win.

As the cast of CODA took to the stage to pick up the award, actor/producer Eugenio Derbez who played Dr. Bernardo Villalobos in the film, took his rightful place on stage as part of the amazing cast.  

AN OSCAR 1st: 

Apple’s ‘CODA’ is the first movie from a streaming service to win Best Picture Oscar, and Troy Kotsur who played the dad won Best Supporting Actor was the first deaf actor to win

Javier Bardem who was nominated for Best Supporting Actor lost out to Troy Kotsur who won his Oscar for playing the role of Frank Rossi, the deaf father of the lead played by Emilia Jones 

The Best Actress Oscar went to the lovely and very talented Jessica Chastain for her performance of Tammy Faye in the bio-pic The Eyes of Tammy Faye.  Penelope Cruz’s nominated for her standout performance in Parallel Mothers, which has already garnered her eight awards including the National Society of Film Critics awards, went home with her husband Javier instead of “Oscar.”  However, both Cruz and Bardem already have an Oscar each. Cruz, a three-time nominee won the Oscar in 2008 for Vicky Cristina Barcelona, her other nominations were in 2006 for Volver and 2009 for Nine. While Bardem won his Oscar for the Coen Brothers’ No Country For Old Men.

PRESENTING

The 2022 Latinos Oscar presenters included Academy Award nominee Rosie Perez (Fearless 1994) who presented along with her White Men Can’t Jump castmates Woody Harrelson and Wesley Snipes), the award for Best Cinematography which went to Greig Fraser.  Then John Leguizamo, who had earlier last week done a secretive social media post saing that he would be at the Oscars, but didn’t say in what capacity, introduced the live performance of “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” another song written by Miranda for Encanto, which has become the highest-charting song from a Disney movie since 1995

Rachel Zeigler, who prior to the Oscars had also posted on social media to say she had not been invited to the Oscars, in spite of having played the lead role in the Oscar-nominated film West Side Story. Fast forward to Oscar night and she presented the Best Visual Effects category alongside Jacob Elordi (Euphoria). During the mile banter Elordi said that while growing up in Australia he would have never imagined being invited to the ceremony, to which Zegler jokingly said “I never thought I’d be here… six days ago [sic].” One of the funniest off-the-cuff remarks of the evening.

Oscar-winning actress Lupita nyong’o (for 12 Years a Slave 2013) was looking regal in her golden Prada gown. Mexican claim her as their own as she was born and lived in Mexico as a child. In 2014 she finally set the record straight about her nationality when she told media outlet El Mañana a few years back, “I’ve seen the quarrels over my nationality, but I’m Kenyan and Mexican at the same time. I am Mexican-Kenyan and I am fascinated by carne asada tacos.” We are all fascinated with this lovely and powerful actress!

Then there was “The Slap” with Will Smith playing the “Slapper” and Chris Rock the “Slapee.” The drama happened just prior to Smith winning the Best Actor Award for King Richard. And that is all I want to say on this matter.

The evening ended with the fluttering of hands in the theater, which in the deaf world is the way to show applause. Both Kotsur and Marlee Matlin who starred as the parents in the drama CODA are deaf and when the film won, the “applause” came in visual waves as the audience, which truly was “NOT so White”, was captured on camera.

All in all, this was the best Oscar night in a very long time. Represented on stage was amazing talent from Asia, the Middle East, Europe, Latin America, Mexico, Africa, and so many other countries and regions. Inclusion played a big part and the hope is that it continues. Because when the Oscars are truly representative of creative talents the world over, it creates a better understanding of our cultures.

One of the most poignant moments in the evening came when actress Mila Kunis (Family Guy, That ’70s Show) whose family is from Ukraine, introduced singer Reba Mackentire who sang “Somehow You Do”, the song from the nominated film Four Good Days. 

Before the introduction Kunis, without having to mention the country’s name, but every audience member and viewer knew, said:

“Recent global events have left many of us feeling gutted.  Yet when you witness the strength and dignity of those facing such devastation, it’s impossible not to be moved by their resilience.  One cannot help but be in awe of those who find strength to keep fighting through unimaginable darkness..”

This was followed by an on-camera chyron that directed people to donate. A powerful moment seen by millions, appealing to their generosity to the human spirit in all of us and at the same time, this gesture did not take anything away from the purpose of the evening.

Let’s not let the actions of one person pull focus on what a historic evening in Hollywood it was at the 94th Academy Awards.

The world is made up of many ethnicities and nationalities that for one evening come together to share the world’s love of film.  We are a world of film magic, let’s use that to make it a better place.

The post And The Oscar Goes to…Inclusion first appeared on .

The National Association of Hispanic Publications recently named Bel Hernandez Publisher of the Year for her demonstrated excellence in publishing and service to the Latino community in the entertainment industry through her Latin Heat Entertainment, an online trade publication. The recognition couldn’t be more timely as it coincides with Latin Heat’s 30th anniversary.

In celebration of its three decades of service, Latin Heat has launched the Latin Heat Rising Star Award honoring a talent who is stepping into the spotlight in a major way. The award’s first recipient is actress Annie Gonzalez, a proud Chicana artist from East Los Angeles. Her breakout role came in Netflix’s Gentefied, which led to a starring role in Eva Longoria’s directorial feature film debut Flamin’ Hot.  Furthermore, Gonzalez recently landed another starring role, George Lopez’s Once Upon a Time in Aztlan for Amazon Prime Video. The budding actress is currently seen in in season two of Gentefied, which debuted in November.

Both Hernandez’s NAHP Published of the Year and Gonzalez’s Latin Heat Rising Star awards will be presented at an industry event Wed., Dec. 17 in Los Angeles County.

Credited with expanding the coverage of Latinos in Hollywood, Hernandez, dubbed as “The Godmother of Latino Hollywood” by MovieMaker Magazine, has received many recognitions and forged many alliances throughout the years, most notably with her mentor and former publisher of The Hollywood Reporter to promote the “crossover” coverage of Latinos. She was recently named to Credentials Committee of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, the producer the Golden Globe Awards.

“Looking back, I reflect on where we were back then as a creative community, it was the independent Latino directors creating the opportunities for Latinos–Gregory Nava with Selena and El Norte), Robert Rodriguez with El Mariachi and Desperado), Miguel Arteta with Star Maps), Edward James Olmos with Stand and Deliver and American Me, and others”, Hernandez reflected. “Fast forward 30 years and now there is a cadre of Latino creatives who continue to cast authentically and create the future stars of Hollywood who happen to be Latino”.

NAHP’s founding president Kirk Whisler will present the Publisher of the Year Award to Hernandez at Wednesday’s invitation-only industry event. Gentefied’s Gonzalez will also be presented with the Latin Heat Rising Star Award.

The celebrity red carpet event is sponsored by Neft Vodka and will benefit Brighter Future Charity, a non-profit organization devoted to enriching and empowering the lives of youth, adults and families within the autism community.

Herdandez is also CEO of Latin Heat Media, a multi-media company whose mission is to create content by Latinos and about Latinos for universal audiences. The parent company of this website, Latin Heat. LHM also produces TheTRENDTalk Show and LATINAFest, a festival that celebrates all things Latina.

In addition to running her own media company, Hernandez is also involved in various community causes. She serves on the advisory boards for Farmworker Justice and the Mexican American Cultural Education Foundation. Hernandez has been recognized for her journalist endeavors with an ALMA Award and a Mujeres Destacadas Award from La Opinión Newspaper. Additionally, she has been honored by the Hispanic Public Relations Association, Latina Style Magazine, Hispanic Lifestyle, National Hispanic Health Foundation, National Hispanic Media Coalition, the City of Los Angeles and Women in Theater Festival.

Featured Photo: Bel Hernandez (Credit: Latin Heat Media) 

The post Latin Heat’s Bel Hernandez Has Much to Celebrate first appeared on .

This year, the National Association of Hispanic Publications, Inc. (NAHP) named Latin Heat Entertainment’s Bel Hernandez as Publisher of the Year for her demonstrated excellence in publishing and service to the Latino community in the entertainment industry. The recognition couldn’t be more timely as it coincides with Latin Heat Entertainment’s 30th year anniversary.

On the occasion of the 30 year anniversary, Latin Heat, an online trade publication, is launching the Latin Heat Rising Star Award which will be awarded to a talent who is stepping into the spotlight in a major way. This year, actress Annie Gonzalez is the recipient of the Rising Star Award. Gonzalez’s breakout role came in Netflix’s Gentefied, which led to landing a starring role in Eva Longoria’s directorial feature film debut Flamin’ Hot.  And Gonzalez’s star continues to rise and is shining brighter than ever as she recently landed the starring role in George Lopez’s Once Upon a Time in Aztlan! Presently, Gonzalez can be seen in season 2 of Gentefied currently streaming on Netflix.

Credited with expanding the coverage of Latinos in Hollywood, Hernandez was dubbed “The Godmother of Latino Hollywood” by MovieMaker Magazine. Throughout her 30 year career in the entertainment industry, she has received several accolades and has forged many alliances, including with her mentor and the former publisher of The Hollywood Reporter to promote the “crossover” coverage of Latinos. Most recently, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, the organization that produces the Golden Globe Awards, appointed Hernandez to the HFPA Credentials Committee.

“Looking back, I reflect on where we were back then as a creative community, it was the independent Latino directors creating the opportunities for Latinos. Gregory Nava (Selena, El Norte), Robert Rodriguez (El Mariachi, Desperado), Miguel Arteta (Star Maps), Edward James Olmos (Stand and Deliver, American Me) and others”, reflected Hernandez. “Fast forward 30 years and now there is a cadre of Latino creatives who continue to cast authentically and create the future stars of Hollywood who happen to be Latino”.   

In celebration of Latin Heat’s 30th Anniversary, an invitation-only industry event will take place on Wednesday, December 15, 2021 where NAHP’s founding president, Kirk Whisler, will present the Publisher of the Year Award to Bel Hernandez. The celebrity red carpet event is sponsored by Neft Vodka and will benefit Brighter Future Charity, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization devoted to enriching and empowering the lives of youth, adults and families within the Autism community.

Under her purview as CEO of Latin Heat Media (LHM), a multi-media company whose mission is to create content by Latinos and about Latinos for universal audiences, LHM produces TheTRENDTalk Show and is co-founder of LATINAFest, a festival that celebrates all things Latina.

In addition to running her own media company, Hernandez believes in giving back to the community. She serves on the Advisory Boards for Farmworker Justice and the Mexican American Cultural Education Foundation. Hernandez has also been recognized by the Hispanic Public Relations Association, Latina Style Magazine, Hispanic Lifestyle, National Hispanic Health Foundation, National Hispanic Media Coalition, the City of Los Angeles, and the Women in Theater Festival and has received a Mujeres Destacadas Award from La Opinión and an ALMA Award for her journalist endeavors. 

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The Farmworker Justice Awards – Los Angeles is celebrating 40 years of serving the needs of U.S. farmworkers as they kick off Hispanic Heritage Month. Hollywood celebrities and Latino community leaders will attend as the organization recognizes turn out to recognizing leaders of the Latino community for their social impact. The honorees include Eva Longoria, award-winning actress, producer, director, entrepreneur, activist, and advocate for the rights of farmworkers; John Echeveste, CEO of LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes; Thomas A. Saenz, President and General Counsel of the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund (MALDEF); and Bel Hernandez, CEO of Latin Heat Media and Chair of the Farmworker Justice Advisory Council, Tuesday, September 14 at LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes in downtown Los Angeles.

This event, presented by Pepsico, is becoming one of the most important charity events in Los Angeles this year. The Farmworker Justice awards hosted by  Jordi Vilasuso (The Young and the Restless) provide an opportunity to bring together supporters and contributors from the business, legal, government, and nonprofit communities to report and highlight Farmworker Justice’s important work. It also serves to recognize individuals, businesses and other organizations that have demonstrated leadership, commitment, dedication, and sacrifice to address the ongoing plight that farmworkers face each and every day in America.

Confirmed celebrities and VIPs include several members of the cast of Eva Longoria’s directorial feature film debut Flamin’ Hot, the rags to riches story of Richard Montañez who is credited with having helped invented the Flaimin’ Hot Cheetos snack. The two leads of the film, Annie Gonzalez plays the lead role of Judy Montañez and Jesse Garcia who plays the lead character of Richard Montañez will be in attendance. Additional Flamin’ Hot cast members include Pepe Serna (With Love, Scarface), Eric Marq (Flamin’ Hot) and Fabian Alomar (Mayans M.C.). 

Dolores Huerta, civil rights icon co-founder of the United Farm Workers and President of the Dolores Huerta Foundation will set the stage with her keynote remarks. Actress/psychotherapist Julie Carmen will do the introduction.

Joining in the celebration will be guitar virtuoso and pop culture icon, Charo; actress Alma Martinez (Gentefied);  Edy Ganem (Devious Maids); actor/director Enrique Castillo (Weeds, Blood In, Blood Out); Laura Patalano (Gentefied); Yareli Arizmendi (A Day Without a Mexican); Karina Noelle Castillo (The Good Doctor);  Joseph Raymond Lucero (Mayans M.C.); Dan Guerrero (¡Gaytino!);  director/musician Sergio Arau (A Day Without a Mexican); Yvette Gonzalez-Nacer (Hadestown); Alfonso Illan (The Forever Purge); Angel Garet (The First Wives Club). Josefina Lopez (Real Women Have Curves); actor/director Mauricio Mendoza (True Form Films); JM Longoria (Miracles from Heaven, Bibi); Carlos Carrasco (Blood In, Blood Out); Hector Atreyu Ruiz (Las Carpas); singer Catie Waters, rapper Melo Menace; recording artist Leyo Mendez; former NFL Placekicker Tony Zendejas;  José Luis Valenzuela (Director, LATC); former NFL kicker Frank Corral; Evelina Fernandez (Actress, Screenwriter); Marabina Jaimes (Emmy Award-winning host/actress); and Naibe Reynoso, Co-Founder Latinafest, LA CO. Channel news anchor, founder Con Todo Press.

Expected to attend: Jacob Vargas (Mr. Iglesias), Emilio Rivera (Mayans M.C.); and many more.

NOTE:  COVID-19 Guidelines will be in effect. All attendees, volunteers and staff will be required to show proof of vaccination before entering the event. A negative COVID-19 test taken within the last 72 hours before the event will also be accepted.

Bruce Goldstein, Farmworker Justice President, of the national advocacy organization for farmworkers will give the opening remarks. The organization, which was founded in 1981 collaborates with organizations throughout the country to empower farmworkers to improve their wages, working conditions, occupational safety, health immigration status and access to justice.

Paintings by Master Chicano Artist Yolanda Gonzalez on sale to benefit Farmworker Justice.

There will be an auction that will be conducted by the inimitable Charo joins Farmworker Justice Director of Development, David Damian Figueroa.

The event is designed by Ricardo Soltero, scenery director and stage set designer for the annual Hollywood Forever Día de los Muertos celebration.

SOCIALS: Instagram: @Farmworkerjustice; FB: @Farmworkerjustice;

TW: @FarmwrkrJustice.

Hashtags: #handsthatfeedus; #fairwages; #farmworkerjustice #farmworkerjusticeawards #40thanniversary

For more information visit the Farmworker Justice website at www.farmworkerjustice.org and follow #HandsThatFeedUs.

The post Eva Longoria To Be Honored at Farmworker Justice 40th Gala first appeared on .

Latin Heat Media, a multi-media company focused on creating content for and about U.S. Latinos, announced their pick up for a fourth season of TheTRENDTalk talk show on the MeTV local Channel 54.  The premiere will be on October 4^st, 2020 coinciding with a special Hispanic Heritage Month special. Season four also welcomes Emmy award-winning actress/producer Marabina Jaimes as producer and co-host alongside executive producer/co-host, Bel Hernandez. 

“We are so proud to be able to continue bringing our Latina voice to the talk show table for a 4th season of TheTRENDTalk on METV Channel 54 LA,” said Hernandez. “Nationally TheTRENDTalk can be seen on Instagram, our YoutTube channel and latinheatcinema.com.  We are excited to begin production on 13 new new episodes for METV! 

TheTRENDTalk is known for highlighting an array of remarkable individuals who are making a positive impact in today’s society through their extraordinary efforts, amazing accomplishments and contributions. Guests have included successful entrepreneurs, influencers, comedians, celebrities, TV producers, medical professionals, activists and philanthropists all trending in their fields. 

“We are the Latina Voice when it comes to broadcast TV.  We can’t think of any other talk show that shares the American Latina perspective stemming from the entertainment capital of the world, Hollywood California; reaching TV, social media platforms, and YouTube!,” said Jaimes.  “Latinas stand to make the deciding factor in politics and policy….there are so many entrepreneurs, educators, and creatives working diligently to not only change the same old narrative, but who are invested in the importance and pride of Latina Legacy. I’m so excited to be a part of this extraordinary show!”

Hernandez and Jaimes first met as actors several years ago.  Since then, Hernandez’s life took a turn into journalism, establishing the first entertainment trade publication in Hollywood, while Jaimes went on to win an Emmy for her hosting of the PBS show Storytime. Still an actress, Jaimes is a powerhouse in the voice over arena, having worked in countless TV and films, including voicing Mary Alice on “Desperate Housewives” en Español, for the run of the show.  The chemistry of this dynamic duo is undeniable and keeps audiences engaged and wanting more. 

Guests on TheTRENDTalk have included:

Nicholas Gonzalez (The Good Doctor); Edward James Olmos; Joe Minoso (Chicago Fire);  Chiquis; Andrea Navedo (Jane The Virgin); Justina Machado (One Day at a Time); Comedian Momo Rodriguez; Writer/Producer Luisa Leschin; Lisa Vidal (Becoming Mary Jane); Fabrizio Guido (Mr. Iglesias on Netflix); Dr. Mario Martinez, Neuropsychologist; Singer/Songwriter Dan Navarro; Cartoonist Lalo Alcaraz…and so many more!

TheTRENDTalk premieres on October 4, 2020 on MeTV’s KAZA-TV Channel 54, Dish 54 and is widely available on Spectrum and other cable providers throughout Southern California. You can also find the 2nd run of the show on Youtube,  IGTV and Facebook. Please check www.metv.com or your local listings for additional channels.

For more information about TheTRENDTalk, please visit: http://www.theTRENDtalktv.com

Follow us on social media:

Facebook: @theTRENDtalkShow

Instagram: @theTRENDTalkShow

Twitter: @TRENDTalkShow  

The post TheTRENDTalk Gets 4th Season on METV first appeared on .

By Latin Heat

LATINAFest, in partnership with the Amazon Prime documentary All In: The Fight for Democracy, presents EntrepreneurFest, a virtual three-hour online celebration of the Latina entrepreneurial spirit.  EntrepreneurFest will not only provide entrepreneurs a virtual space to showcase and sell their products, but will also feature inspirational speakers; a spoken word poet; engaging conversations on black and brown unity, and voter suppression. EntrepreneurFest takes place on Saturday, August 22, 2020 from 11:00AM to 2:00 PM (PST) and will be streaming on Facebook, YouTube, the LATINAFest website and our Media Partner ABC7’s website and app.  

Special guests include the co-directors of the documentary All In: The Fight for Democracy Lisa Cortés and Liz Garbus who cover current activism against voter suppression; barriers to voting; and our basic rights in the documentary, which features voting rights activist Stacey Abrams,the first black woman to become the gubernatorial nominee for a major party in the United States. Moderating  the discussion will be LATINAFest Co-Founders Bel Hernandez and Naibe Reynoso. All In is scheduled to be released in select theaters on September 9, 2020, ahead of its global launch on Amazon Prime Video on September 18, 2020.

Directors Cortés and Liz both put out a statement, “We are thrilled to officially announce All In: The Fight for Democracy which will tell a powerful and harrowing story of the fight for the right to vote as well as arm citizens with the tools they need to protect this right.  The film will be accompanied by an ambitious and visionary action plan to reach voters and educate them across the nation.”

Two other speakers scheduled are: Nadine Ramos CEO of Lasio Inc., a powerhouse and inspirational business woman within the keratin product industry; and Danyeli Rodriguez Del Orbe, a New York native, Afro-Latinx spoken word artist and a bold advocate for women’s health, immigration rights, and racial/cultural uplifting. 

Latinas make up one in five women in the U.S. today, helping to drive economic growth and shaping the culture and future of America, influencing the rapid growth of Latino buying power, which is expected to reach $1.7 trillion in 2020 and $1.9 trillion in 2023.

“We are excited to have the participation of all of these amazing women,” said Naibe Reynoso, EntrepreneurFest co-host and co-founder of LATINAFest. “Our event is all about empowerment and we have partnered with like-minded sponsors to provide resources, especially in these uncertain times.”

We will also hear from some of the most admired Latinas from across the country and all walks of life: Hilda Solis, Supervisor, L.A. County Board of Supervisors, 1st District, Chair Pro Tem; Nely Galán, founder of The Adelante Movement; Gloria Calderon-Kellett, Showrunner, One Day At A Time; Nathalie Molina Niño, CEO, Brava Investments; Victoria Guerrero, District Director, South Florida District Office, Small Business Administration; and Teresa Samaniego and Mariel Moscoso, ABC7 Community Relations.

Anabel Munoz, anchor of ABC7, is the EntrepreneurFest emcee, and will conduct an interview with Aurea Montes-Rodriguez, Executive VP of the Community Coalition on the timely topic of racial and social justice, and black and brown unity.  ABC7 will also be streaming EntrepreneurFest on the ABC7 App (with a viewership of 6.6 million) and on their website.  ABC7 Reporter Gabriela Milian will be conducting the community interviews of Latina business owners for ABC7 broadcast and for inclusion in the three-hour virtual program.

“We are delighted to have partnered with our sponsors, who like us, believe in supporting Latina women in the U.S. to reach new heights in their business, as well as in their personal lives,” said Bel Hernandez, CEO of Latin Heat Media and Co-founder of LATINAFest.

EntrepreneurFest is made possible by our generous sponsors: All In: The Fight for Democracy documentary, Lasio Inc., Mineragua Sparkling Water, ABC7 Los Angeles, and our media sponsors Latin Heat Media and Hispanic Lifestyle.

The post ENTREPRENUEURFest A Celebration of Latina Entrepreneurs first appeared on .