Dear NAHCC members and friends:

In this season of gratitude, we are honored to share the recap of the NAHCC’s 21st Business & Community Excellence Awards, celebrated at Belmont University.

This special tribute recognizes the outstanding leaders, entrepreneurs, and community partners whose dedication continues to uplift and strengthen our Hispanic business community.

Today — and always — we are deeply thankful for their impact, their service, and the example they set for our region.

Yuri Cunza

President & CEO

Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Loraine Segovia Paz

Executive Director

NAHCC Foundation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: 615-216-5737

Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber

of Commerce



November 22, 2025

Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (NAHCC) Announces 21st Annual Business & Community Excellence Award Recipients

Awards were presented at Belmont University as the NAHCC celebrated local entrepreneurs' resilience, corporate leadership, and community contributions.

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE — The Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (NAHCC) is proud to announce the recipients of its 2025 Business & Community Excellence Awards, presented during a celebratory evening at the Ayers Conference Center at Belmont University on Tuesday, October 21, 2025.

Now in its 21st year, this signature event honors exceptional leaders, entrepreneurs, creators, and community partners whose contributions continue to strengthen the region’s Hispanic business ecosystem and enrich the cultural and economic life of Nashville.

A Night of Celebration, Culture & Community at Belmont Univ.

The evening opened with a vibrant reception filled with good food, lively music, warm conversations, and group photos, bringing guests together before the formal program began.

The ceremony opened with a flawless performance of The National Anthem by Briana Gatica, followed by welcome remarks from Yuri Cunza, NAHCC President & CEO. Cunza recognized Loraine Segovia Paz, Executive Director of the NAHCC Foundation, along with the NAHCC Foundation Board members and the NAHCC Board of Directors in attendance.

NAHCC Advisory Board Member Joyce Searcy, Associate Vice President for Community & Government Affairs at Belmont University, was also acknowledged for her long-standing engagement in support of the chamber and for her leadership during her service on the NAHCC Board of Directors.

Cunza then introduced Dr. Jason B. Rogers, University Counsel & Executive Vice President for External Engagement, who delivered welcome remarks on behalf of Belmont University and President Gregory Jones, and formally recognized the diplomatic guests in attendance, including Consul Carla Juárez (Mexico), Consul Marta Orantes (El Salvador), and Vice Consul Francisco Castillo (Guatemala).

Cultural Performances & Community Acknowledgements

The program featured a dynamic folkloric dance performance by Raíces de Mi Tierra, celebrating heritage and tradition through movement and vibrant costumes. (See video at end of announcement).

Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell delivered remarks recognizing the NAHCC’s leadership in supporting small businesses, promoting economic inclusion, and elevating Hispanic entrepreneurship throughout the region.

Remarks by member, music business entrepreneur, Rachel Rodriguez (pictured above), reflected the chamber’s positive impact on business growth and community engagement.

Special multimedia acknowledgments included:

•Jose and Suzy Vera founders of TalaVera Institute on – WKRN News2

• Nashville Entrepreneur Center inducts NAHCC Vice Chair Manuel Cuevas into Entrepreneur's Hall of Fame during NEXT Awards

• Comcast RISE: NAHCC members Voces de Nashville (grant recipient)

“On behalf of the NAHCC Board of Directors, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the recipients of our 21st Annual Business & Community Excellence Awards. Each honoree reflects the leadership, resilience, and vision that continue to strengthen Hispanic entrepreneurship and enrich the cultural and economic fabric of our city. With the Hispanic community now representing 14% of Nashville’s population—and an estimated 2,000 Hispanic-owned businesses contributing to our region’s growth—it is essential that we continue uplifting, empowering, and investing in the communities that drive innovation and opportunity across Middle Tennessee” — Yuri Cunza, Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. President & CEO

Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell Commends NAHCC’s 26 Years of Contributions, Service and Leadership

Freddie O'Connell, the tenth mayor of the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County delivered remarks congratulating the Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (NAHCC) on its 21st annual awards and 26 years of contributions to the Nashville community by the NAHCC. He highlighted the NAHCC's pivotal role in promoting economic diversity and Hispanic entrepreneurship, contributing to the city's growth by helping small businesses thrive. He emphasized the chamber’s efforts to connect entrepreneurs, foster strategic alliances, and promote financial best practices—values aligned with Nashville’s commitment to building an inclusive economy.

NAHCC Foundation and NAHCC board members on stage with Mayor O’Connell and Raíces de Mi Tierra at the 21st Annual Business & Community Excellence Awards.

The NAHCC’s 2025 Business & Community Excellence Awards not only recognized outstanding business achievement but also celebrated the impact of leaders who continue to inspire the next generation. The sold-out event featured vibrant cultural performances, visual art by Marco Vazquez , and a fashion showcase by artist and designer José Vera González, whose wearable art clothing designs illuminated the runway with color, culture, and inventive expression—bringing a unique artistic energy to the evening.

21st Business & Community Excellence Awards Presentation

The first segment of the awards program, presented by Yuri Cunza, Loraine Segovia Paz, NAHCC members, board members and corporate partners, highlighted the entrepreneurial spirit, civic leadership, artistic excellence, and community partnerships that define the NAHCC’s mission. The evening opened with the Ganas in Entrepreneurship Award honoring Vega Designs, recognizing their creativity, resilience, and growth as a Hispanic-owned business.

Comcast received the Corporate Leadership Partner Award for its continued commitment to expanding opportunity and supporting Hispanic voices in media and business. The Ganas in Music Business Award was presented to Rick Rodriguez / La Cara Productions for his contributions to the cultural and creative landscape of our region.

Artist Dalia Garcia was selected for the Spirit in Visual Arts Award, celebrating her work as a storyteller whose art reflects identity, heritage, and community.

The Strategic Business & Community Partner Award was presented to Nashville International Airport (BNA) in recognition of its ongoing support for diversity, inclusion, and Hispanic business visibility.

The second part of the awards program highlighted the deep cultural legacy and intergenerational creativity that enrich our community. Led by NAHCC Foundation's Loraine Segovia Paz and Albert Bender, Chair of the Indigenous Peoples Coalition, this segment honored artistic communities whose work embodies the living heartbeat of our shared heritage.

The Ancestral Roots in Motion Award was presented to Kalpulli Ilhuicamina–Flechador del Cielo and Danza Azteca Ollin Quetzalli — groups (pictured above) whose ceremonial dance and storytelling preserve Indigenous identity with reverence, discipline, and deep spiritual connection. Their performances remind us that culture is not something we observe from a distance, but something we inherit, embody, and continue.

The Semillas in Arts & Culture Award honored Grupo Folklorico Raíces de Mi Tierra, a youth folkloric dance troupe (pictured above) lovingly guided by teachers and families who understand that passing down tradition is both a responsibility and an act of hope. Through every step, these young dancers plant seeds for the future — carrying forward the colors, rhythms, and stories that define who we are.



Reflecting on the significance of this moment, Loraine Segovia Paz shared:

“When we honor our cultural keepers — from our elders to our youngest dancers — we honor the past, the present, and the future all at once. These artists remind us that our heritage is alive, breathing, and growing through every generation.”

The awards continued with a celebration of artistic excellence and cultural storytelling. The Passion in Country Music Award was presented to Cerrito (pictured right), whose distinctive voice, Rhode Island roots, Italian heritage, and long-standing career performing in both Spanish and English reflect a rare and meaningful bridge between cultures within the country music tradition. Joined by community leader Mikey Corona for the presentation, the moment highlighted the ways artists from diverse backgrounds contribute to — and enrich — Nashville’s vibrant musical landscape.

In partnership with the Nashville Film Festival, the NAHCC also presented the Best Hispanic Film Award, honoring filmmakers whose work elevates Latino narratives on screen. This year’s distinguished selections—Comparsa (Guatemala/USA), La Guitarra Flamenca de Yeray Cortés (Spain), and Call Gloria (Argentina)—were recognized for their powerful storytelling, artistic quality, and contributions to the growing visibility of Hispanic voices in film.

Each year, honorees are chosen by an impartial selection committee in recognition of their exceptional contributions, leadership, and service to the Hispanic business community and the broader Nashville region. Their achievements reflect a deep commitment to excellence, civic engagement, and community impact.

A longstanding tradition of the NAHCC awards is that recipients are not notified in advance — a practice that brings an element of authenticity and heartfelt surprise to the evening. Reflecting on this tradition, Yuri Cunza, President & CEO of the Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, shared: “When someone participates without any expectation of recognition, it speaks to their genuine dedication to our mission and the community we serve.”

In his closing remarks, Yuri Cunza expressed deep appreciation to Belmont University, the NAHCC Board, the NAHCC Foundation, event partners, sponsors (shown below), members, and the community for their continued support. “These honorees exemplify the leadership, creativity, and commitment that continue to elevate Hispanic businesses and enrich the cultural fabric of our city,” Cunza said.



The evening concluded with photos, connections, and heartfelt expressions of gratitude — a fitting reflection of the strength and unity of Nashville’s Hispanic business community.

Photos by Belmont University, Karlha Ramon, Perla Salas and Sebastian Estrada.

2025 Business & Community Excellence Award Recipients

“GANAS” IN ENTREPRENEURSHIP AWARD – VEGA DESIGNS

Recognizing creativity, determination, and the entrepreneurial spirit that define our community. NAHCC members Ashley and Miguel Vega, founders of Vega Designs continue to grow with vision, passion, and purpose — turning ideas into impact. Presented by Darien Rizo, VP Commercial Banking, Regions Bank.

CORPORATE LEADERSHIP PARTNER AWARD – COMCAST

This award honors a trusted partner whose leadership and commitment to diversity have strengthened our local business ecosystem. A longtime NAHCC member, Comcast — especially through its Comcast RISE program this year — continues to uplift entrepreneurs and expand opportunity across our community. Presented by NAHCC Vice-Chair, Mikey Corona owner of Tio Fun! Mexican Munchies.

“GANAS” IN MUSIC BUSINESS AWARD – RICK RODRIGUEZ / LA CARA PRODUCTIONS

NAHCC member Rick Rodriguez is a pioneer in Nashville’s Latin music scene —a visionary who has elevated Latino talent, created meaningful opportunities, and shared the rhythm and richness of Hispanic culture with wider audiences. Founder of La Cara Productions, he leads a company that bridges American music, Hispanic heritage, and the broader industry, offering artist development, management, production, and strategic partnerships that uplift Latino voices. True to its name, “La Cara” (“The Face”), proudly represents and amplifies the Hispanic American community within Nashville’s music landscape. Presented by Loraine Segovia Paz and Yuri Cunza.

“SPIRIT” IN VISUAL ARTS AWARD – DALIA GARCIA

This award honors an artist whose creativity and vision illuminate identity, beauty, and resilience. NAHCC member and long-time friend Dalia Garcia embodies this spirit through work that reflects her heritage and the heart of her community. Presented on 10/21/2025 by Stacey Nichols, Nashville International Airport (BNA). Pictured right: Chalene Helmuth and Brenna Davenport (NAHCC Foundation Board), Mikey Corona (NAHCC), Dalia Garcia, Suzy Vera (NAHCC), Loraine Segovia Paz (NAHCC Foundation) and Yuri Cunza (NAHCC).

STRATEGIC BUSINESS & COMMUNITY PARTNER AWARD – NASHVILLE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (BNA)

Recognizing a valued partner helping our city and community soar. NAHCC member Nashville International Airport/BNA continues to lead with innovation, inclusion, and a commitment to connecting people and opportunity. Presented by NAHCC Immediate Past Chair of the Board, Claudia Zuazua, Senior Economic Development Coordinator, Williamson Inc.

PRESIDENT’S BRIDGES IN ARTS & CULTURE AWARD – NAIMA (North American Institute for Mexican Advancement) - See VIDEO

Awarded to an organization building bridges through cultural understanding and collaboration. NAIMA promotes heritage and unity through the arts, advancing a vibrant cultural exchange. Presented by Claudia Zuazua, Yuri Cunza and Elena Jimenez.

ANCESTRAL ROOTS IN MOTION AWARDS – KALPULLI ILHUICAMINA-FLECHADOR DEL CIELO & DANZA AZTECA OLLIN QUETZALLI

Honoring those who keep ancestral traditions alive through dance and ceremony. Their performances celebrate Indigenous identity and strengthen cultural pride across generations. Presented to Eloy Aparicio, Grecia Rodriguez and Maribel Padron Rivera by Loraine Segovia Paz, NAHCC Foundation and Albert Bender, Indigenous People Coalition.

SEMILLAS IN ARTS & CULTURE AWARD – RAÍCES DE MI TIERRA

Recognizing young artists planting the seeds of culture for the future. Raíces de Mi Tierra inspires with every step — preserving heritage while shaping tomorrow’s storytellers. Arte, alegría y folklore mexicano se unen en Raíces de Mi Tierra, un grupo que nace con el propósito de preservar y difundir la riqueza cultural de México a través de la danza. Presented by Loraine Segovia Paz.

PASSION IN COUNTRY MUSIC AWARD – CERRITO

A singer of Italian descent from Rhode Island who has made Nashville his home. A long-time NAHCC member, for more than 20 years, Cerrito has performed Country music in both English and Spanish, blending cultures through his soulful voice and heartfelt storytelling — a true Nashville story! Presented by and Loraine Segovia Paz and Yuri Cunza.

Immediate Past Chair Claudia Zuazua (far left), Indigenous Peoples Coalition Chair Albert Bender, and NAHCC Foundation Executive Director Loraine Segovia Paz (on stage) lead the awards program.

About the Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce: The Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (NAHCC) is the oldest, longest running Hispanic business association in Tennessee, promoting the economic growth and development of Hispanic entrepreneurs. With a membership of more than 400 businesses, the NAHCC represents their interests in Nashville and surrounding areas connecting entrepreneurs and micro-enterprises, facilitating strategic alliances, networking and sharing of business and financial best practices. The NAHCC is one of the first Hispanic chambers in the nation to receive the CTI Chamber Certification Designation issued by the University of Notre Dame and co-signed by the USHCC, USBC, USPAACC. The CTI Certification highlights the achievements made by the chamber. The NAHCC is a recipient of the "Chamber of the Year Award" presented by the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. www.nashvillehispanicchamber.com